Garlic Labneh

Name: Garlic Labneh
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490756H10M48S
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 500 g thick Greek yogurt; 1 tsp flaky salt; 1 garlic clove; 1/2 lemon (juiced); 2 tbsp olive oil; Toasted pine nuts; Chopped parsley; Extra virgin olive oil; Sumac (optional)

Published: November 12, 2025

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this flavorful dip in no time.
Versatile Flavor: The addition of garlic and lemon juice gives the labneh a fresh and zesty taste, making it perfect for various dishes.
Healthy Ingredients: Made with Greek yogurt, it’s rich in protein and probiotics, providing both health benefits and deliciousness.
Customizable Toppings: You can personalize your labneh by adding different toppings like herbs, spices, or nuts to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Garlic Labneh is straightforward if you have the right tools. Gather these essentials to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Fine mesh sieve
Cheesecloth or thick kitchen roll
Mixing bowl
Grater

Importance of Each Tool

Fine mesh sieve: This tool allows for effective straining of the yogurt, ensuring a thick and creamy consistency for your labneh.
Cheesecloth: Using cheesecloth helps in removing excess liquid from the yogurt while keeping the mixture contained during the straining process.

Ingredients

For the Labneh Base

500 g thick Greek yoghurt
1 tsp flakey salt

For Flavoring

1 garlic clove
1/2 lemon (juiced)
2 tbsp olive oil

For Toppings

Toasted pine nuts
Chopped parsley
Extra virgin olive oil
Sumac (optional)

How to Make Garlic Labneh

Step 1: Strain the Yogurt

To create a quick labneh, lay cheesecloth or thick kitchen roll in a fine mesh sieve. Set the sieve over a bowl. Pour the yoghurt and a good pinch of salt into the cheesecloth in the sieve. Use a spoon to move the yoghurt around and gently press it into the sieve to remove excess water. Continue this process for about 10-15 minutes until it’s thickened significantly.

Step 2: Mix in Flavors

Once your labneh has thickened, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Finely grate the garlic into the labneh and add a squeeze of lemon juice along with the olive oil. Taste your mixture and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Serve Your Labneh

Spread the garlic labneh onto a plate. Top it with toasted pine nuts, chopped parsley, and an extra drizzle of olive oil for added flavor. If desired, sprinkle some sumac on top for an optional tangy finish!

Enjoy this delightful Garlic Labneh as part of your next meal or appetizer spread!

How to Serve Garlic Labneh

Garlic labneh is a versatile and creamy dip that can elevate a variety of dishes. Here are some delightful ways to serve it, ensuring your meal is both flavorful and visually appealing.

With Fresh Vegetables

Carrot sticks: Crunchy and sweet, perfect for dipping.
Cucumber slices: Refreshing and hydrating, they balance the richness of labneh.
Bell pepper strips: Colorful and crisp, adding a nice crunch.

As a Spread

Pita bread: Warmed or toasted, pita makes an excellent vehicle for garlic labneh.
Toasted baguette slices: Adds a crunchy texture that complements the creaminess.
Crackers: Choose your favorite type for a quick snack with a gourmet touch.

On Grain Bowls

Quinoa base: A nutritious choice that pairs well with the creamy dip.
Brown rice: Earthy flavors that go hand in hand with garlic labneh’s tanginess.
Couscous: Light and fluffy, it absorbs the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Garlic Labneh

Creating the perfect garlic labneh is all about technique and care. Follow these tips for a delicious result every time.

Choose quality yoghurt: Use thick Greek yoghurt for the best texture and flavor.
Season thoughtfully: Adjust salt according to your taste preference; it enhances flavor.
Allow proper draining: Letting the yoghurt drain long enough creates the desired thickness.
Experiment with garlic: Use roasted garlic for a milder flavor or fresh garlic for more intensity.
Garnish creatively: Add herbs or spices like sumac for added color and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Labneh

Pairing side dishes with garlic labneh can create an exciting dining experience. Here are some great options to complement this creamy dip.

Hummus: A classic Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas; serve it alongside labneh for variety.
Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat adds brightness to the meal.
Falafel: Crispy chickpea balls provide protein and texture, making them perfect companions to labneh.
Grilled vegetables: Seasonal veggies charred on the grill add smokiness that balances the creaminess of labneh.
Stuffed grape leaves (Dolmas): These savory bites filled with rice and herbs offer a delightful contrast in flavors.
Roasted eggplant: Smoky roasted eggplant pairs well with garlic labneh, enhancing its rich taste.
Chickpea salad: Combine chickpeas, cucumbers, and lemon for a light dish that complements labneh nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Labneh is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch for.

Not Using Thick Yogurt: Using thin or regular yogurt can result in a watery labneh. Always opt for thick Greek yogurt for the best texture.
Skipping the Salting Step: If you don’t add salt while straining, the flavor will be bland. A pinch of flaky salt helps enhance the taste.
Over-Processing the Garlic: Grating garlic too finely can make it overpowering. Use a fine grater, but don’t overdo it; you want a balanced flavor.
Not Allowing Enough Draining Time: Rushing the draining process can yield a labneh that’s not thick enough. Aim for at least 10-15 minutes to achieve the right consistency.
Neglecting to Taste and Adjust: Failing to taste before serving can lead to a dish that isn’t seasoned well. Always adjust lemon juice and salt to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 5 days.

Freezing Garlic Labneh

Place in a freezer-safe container.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Garlic Labneh

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm labneh covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 15-20 seconds at medium power. Stir between heating.
Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat in a non-stick pan while stirring continuously.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Garlic Labneh that may help you make this dish successfully.

What is Garlic Labneh?

Garlic Labneh is a creamy Middle Eastern dip made from strained yogurt blended with garlic and olive oil, offering rich flavors and smooth texture.

How can I customize my Garlic Labneh?

Feel free to add herbs like dill or mint for extra flavor, or mix in spices such as paprika or cumin for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Can I make Garlic Labneh ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it up to five days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What do I serve with Garlic Labneh?

Garlic Labneh pairs beautifully with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter alongside other dips and spreads.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Labneh is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. It’s perfect as a dip, spread, or side dish that everyone will love. Try incorporating your favorite herbs and spices for a unique twist!