Lite N' Layered Summer Salad
A light and refreshing summer dessert featuring a crisp graham cracker crust topped with a creamy yogurt mixture and sweet strawberries. Perfect for warm weather gatherings, it offers a delightful balance of crunch and smoothness with vibrant fruit flavors, making it suitable for health-conscious dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Spray a 9 x 13 inch pan with cooking spray.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and nonfat yogurt together.
- Spread the mixture over the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 15 to 20 minutes until crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter touch, consider using a sugar substitute to reduce calories further. If you prefer a different fruit, fresh raspberries or blueberries can work well in place of strawberries. Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing, and try adding a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Glenna'S Saucer Cookies for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this layered summer salad as a refreshing dessert at picnics or barbecues. It pairs well with light dishes like grilled chicken or fish, making it a great addition to summer meals. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers on top. This dish also complements other vegetarian recipes, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the crust from becoming soggy, it's best to separate the layers if possible. This salad is best enjoyed chilled, so you can serve it directly from the fridge for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lite N' Layered Summer Salad contains roughly 1344 calories, with 29g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (241% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and protein (59% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 969mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of fat-free?
Yes, you can use regular cream cheese for a richer taste, though it will increase the calorie count. If you decide to go this route, you might want to adjust the sugar amount based on your taste preference.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this summer salad gluten-free, simply substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker alternatives or crushed gluten-free cookies. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust and layer the fillings up to a day before serving. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).