Bored of daily breakfast staples? Try this gastroenterologist-approved Greek yoghurt bowl with caramelised dates

Tired of cycling through the same breakfast options every morning? It might be time to shake things up with a recipe that’s a little unconventional but surprisingly delicious. Combining caramelised dates, creamy Greek yoghurt, warm cinnamon, olive oil and a touch of sea salt, this sweet-and-savoury bowl may sound like an unusual pairing at first. But trust us – the flavours come together beautifully, creating a breakfast that feels indulgent while still relying on wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients.
Caramelised dates and Greek yoghurt makes for a delicious combination! (Instagram)
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Dr Joseph Salhab, a Florida-based gastroenterologist and health content creator who specialises in digestive, liver, pancreas and nutrition health, has shared a simple yet nourishing breakfast recipe that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the warmth of cinnamon and the protein-rich goodness of Greek yoghurt. In an Instagram video shared on June 3, the gastroenterologist states, “Try this when you want something sweet, creamy, salty, and decadent without making a complicated dessert. It may sound like a weird combination, but caramelised dates, cinnamon, Greek yoghurt, olive oil, and sea salt are actually really good together.”
Check out the full recipe below!
Ingredients
- ¾ to 1 cup Greek yoghurt
- 3 to 4 soft dates, sliced
- ½ to 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon honey or olive oil for caramelizing
- ½ teaspoon olive oil for drizzling on top
- Extra cinnamon on top
- Optional: flaky sea salt
Method
- Slice the dates into small pieces so they soften and caramelise evenly.
- Add a drizzle of honey or olive oil to a small pan and place it over low to medium heat.
- Once the pan is warm, add the sliced dates and stir gently to coat them.
- Cook for two to three minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dates become soft, glossy, and lightly caramelised.
- Be careful not to burn them – keep the heat gentle and steady throughout.
- Meanwhile, add Greek yogurt to a serving bowl and spread it out to form the base.
- Spoon the warm caramelised dates over the yoghurt.
- Sprinkle with a little cinnamon for extra flavour.
- Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil.
- If desired, add a pinch of flaky sea salt for a delicious sweet-and-salty contrast.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
What makes it great?
- Easy dessert idea which also doubles as a healthy snack recipe.
- Works great with Greek yoghurt bowls.
- Perfect snack for when you crave something sweet, creamy, salty, and decadent without making a complicated dessert.
- Goodness of dietary fibre, natural sugars, and potent antioxidants from dates, that provide a sustainable energy boost, improve digestion, and support brain and bone health.
- Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and helps regulate blood sugar, lowers inflammation, and supports heart health.
- A quick and easy breakfast option.
- A healthy dessert swap.
- Easy recipe using simple ingredients.
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