Healthy Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits
Ruth J. Pickett
A deliciously layered parfait combining sweet macerated strawberries, creamy Greek yogurt, fresh blueberries, and crunchy granola—perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a healthy dessert.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
- 1 cup strawberries sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- ½ cup blueberries
- ½ cup granola
Prepare the Strawberries: Start by washing the strawberries under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them dry gently with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture. Using a sharp knife, slice the strawberries evenly into thin, bite-sized pieces. Uniform slices not only ensure consistent flavor but also make layering visually appealing. Macerate the Strawberries: Place the sliced strawberries into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the fruit.Using a spoon or spatula, gently toss the strawberries and sugar together until all pieces are lightly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This maceration process allows the strawberries to release their natural juices, intensifying their sweetness and flavor. For even richer taste, you can refrigerate them overnight. Divide the Strawberries for Layering: Once macerated, remove the strawberries from the fridge. Take half of the strawberries and spoon them evenly into the bottom of two clear serving glasses. This first layer forms the juicy foundation of the parfait, providing a flavorful base for the creamy yogurt to follow. Add the Greek Yogurt Layer: Spoon half of the Greek yogurt on top of the strawberry layer in each glass. Use the back of the spoon to spread the yogurt evenly, covering the strawberries completely. The creamy texture of the yogurt balances the sweetness of the fruit while adding a rich, protein-packed layer. Layer the Blueberries: Next, evenly distribute half of the blueberries over the yogurt. Gently press them down with the back of the spoon if needed, but avoid crushing them. These fresh berries add a burst of natural sweetness, fiber, and antioxidants to each bite. Add the Granola Crunch: Sprinkle all of the granola over the blueberry layer. The granola provides a satisfying crunch and hearty texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy yogurt and juicy berries.Ensure an even layer for balanced flavor in every spoonful. Repeat the Layers: Now, repeat the layering process using the remaining ingredients: add the rest of the strawberries first, then the remaining yogurt, and finish with the remaining blueberries. This second layer creates depth, visual appeal, and a full spectrum of flavors in each parfait. Serve or Chill: For immediate enjoyment, serve the parfaits right after assembly to preserve the granola’s crunch. If preparing in advance, cover the glasses with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Note that the granola may soften slightly if stored, but the parfait will still be delicious and nutritious. Optional Garnish and Presentation Tips: For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a few additional granola pieces or a mint leaf on top before serving. Using clear glasses enhances the visual appeal by showing off the distinct layers of fruit, yogurt, and granola. Enjoy Mindfully: Use a spoon to gently scoop through all the layers, enjoying the combination of creamy, juicy, and crunchy textures in each bite. These parfaits make a wholesome breakfast, a refreshing snack, or a light dessert that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying.
- For maximum flavor, macerate strawberries for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for creamier texture and richer taste.
- Opt for fresh, ripe berries for the best natural sweetness.
- Granola can be toasted lightly for extra crunch and flavor.
- Serve immediately for optimal texture; granola may soften if stored for long periods.
- Customize layers with other fruits like raspberries, kiwi, or banana slices.
- Use clear glasses or jars for a visually appealing presentation.