Description
Garlic Labneh is a creamy, tangy Middle Eastern strained yogurt spread, infused with fresh garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, topped with toasted pine nuts, parsley, and optional sumac for a vibrant flavor. Perfect as a dip, spread, or accompaniment to breads and vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Labneh Base
- 500 g thick Greek yoghurt
- 1 tsp flakey salt
Flavorings and Toppings
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Toasted pine nuts
- Chopped parsley
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzle
- Sumac (optional)
Instructions
- Strain the yoghurt: Line a fine mesh sieve with cheesecloth or thick kitchen paper and set it over a bowl. Add the Greek yoghurt along with a good pinch of flaky salt. Use a spoon to gently stir and press the yoghurt in the sieve to encourage liquid to drain off. Continue this process for 10-15 minutes until the yoghurt thickens considerably and releases a lot of liquid.
- Mix the labneh: Transfer the thickened yoghurt into a bowl. Finely grate the garlic clove directly into the labneh, add the fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir well and taste. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice if needed.
- Serve and garnish: Spread the garlic labneh onto a serving plate. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley evenly over the top. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and, if desired, dust with sumac to add a tangy and colorful finish.
Notes
- Use good quality Greek yoghurt with high fat content (10% or more) for creamier labneh.
- If you have more time, strain the yoghurt for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator for an even thicker consistency.
- To toast pine nuts, heat them in a dry pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant, shaking frequently to prevent burning.
- Sumac is optional but adds a lovely tangy and slightly lemony flavor. It can be found in Middle Eastern markets or specialty spice shops.
- Labneh can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dip / Spread
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keywords: Garlic Labneh, Labneh recipe, Middle Eastern dip, strained yogurt, garlic yogurt spread, healthy dip, vegetarian appetizer
