Eat Sustainably with This Earth-Inspired Parfait
Earth Day—just one day of the year—is not anywhere close to enough time to celebrate the importance of sustainability to dairy farming, so we celebrate the Earth all April long!
The U.S. dairy community strives to earn a place on tables around the world while fulfilling commitments that will sustainably nourish generations to come. In the decade since 2005, North America (where the U.S. is the primary dairy producer) was the only region in the world to increase milk production while also reducing absolute emissions, making its greenhouse gas intensity for dairy products the lowest in the world.
Since 1950, U.S. dairy herds have decreased from 25 million to 9.36 million dairy cows, still producing 60% more milk. Through improved genetics, reproduction practices, health practices, and diet, cows are more efficient today than in 1950. With this and various sustainable dairy farming practices being implemented on farms across the country, dairy farming celebrates the Earth every day.
To celebrate with us, make this Earth-inspired parfait modified from the Kentucky Department of Education. This parfait includes a thick layer of delicious Greek yogurt! In addition to recognizing the Earth, this parfait can benefit your health, too. Yogurt made from real milk provides many essential nutrients including calcium, phosphorus, zinc, B vitamins, and high-quality protein. Eating yogurt regularly, at least 2 cups (3 servings) per week, may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D).
To make this Earth Month parfait, follow these steps for a personalized parfait perfect for you!
How To Make an Earth-inspired Parfait
Ingredients:
¼ cup granola
½ cup of your choice of green fruit, like diced apple, sliced kiwi, or grapes
½ cup of your choice of blue fruit like blackberries or blueberries
½ cup Greek yogurt
1 pineapple wedge for garnish
It is so easy to make this Earth Month parfait. First, layer ¼ cup granola in the bottom of the cup or bowl. The granola represents the earth. Next, add a layer ½ cup of your chosen green fruit on top of the granola. This represents nature. Then layer ½ cup of your chosen blue fruit to represent the blue waters and skies. Finally, top with ½ cup yogurt to represent the clouds and garnish with a pineapple wedge to represent the Sun peeking out.
Every Day Parfaits
And while we celebrate dairy farming’s role in sustainability every day, that doesn’t mean this tasty parfait is the only one you can enjoy. We have parfaits for every occasion. Need a decadent snack or light dessert? Try this Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait made with ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, vanilla, strawberries, and graham crackers. This easy, no-bake snack offers an appetite-satisfying dose of protein in a creamy dessert package. How about a parfait to feed a crowd? This vibrant Fiesta Parfait Dip layers zesty salsa, creamy guacamole, and tangy Greek yogurt, resulting in a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing! Greek yogurt is combined with refried beans, guacamole, salsa, cheddar cheese, and taco seasoning. You can create a layered treat for any occasion.