Here’s a Mediterranean Diet–Friendly version of a Classic Creamy Lemon Cheesecake — lightened up, wholesome, yet rich in flavor 🍋
🧁 Classic Creamy Lemon Cheesecake (Mediterranean Diet Style)
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups crushed whole-grain or oat biscuits (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (instead of butter)
- 1 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp lemon zest
For the filling:
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or 2%)
- 8 oz (225 g) light cream cheese (or Neufchâtel cheese)
- ¼ cup honey or agave syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2 large eggs
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
For the topping (optional):
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp honey
- Fresh lemon slices or zest for garnish
🥣 Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Line the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper. - Prepare the crust:
- Mix crushed biscuits (or almond flour) with olive oil, honey, and lemon zest.
- Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool.
- Prepare the filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth.
- Add honey, eggs, lemon juice, zest, vanilla, and cornstarch.
- Beat gently until creamy and well combined (don’t overmix).
- Bake:
- Pour the mixture over the cooled crust.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven, open door slightly, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour (to prevent cracking).
- Chill:
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
- Add topping (optional):
- Spread Greek yogurt mixed with honey over the top.
- Garnish with lemon zest or slices before serving.
🍋 Mediterranean Diet Benefits:
- Uses olive oil instead of butter.
- Sweetened naturally with honey or agave.
- Includes Greek yogurt for protein and probiotics.
- Lower in refined sugar and rich in healthy fats.
Would you like me to make it no-bake or keep it as this baked version? I can adjust it for summer-friendly prep or extra protein if you want.
