25+ Delicious Holiday Low Sodium Low Protein Recipes for Your Diets

The holiday season is often filled with rich, indulgent foods, but if you’re watching your sodium intake or following a low-protein diet, it can be challenging to find dishes that fit your needs.

Fortunately, you don’t have to compromise on flavor or festive flair.

With a little creativity, you can enjoy delicious, healthy meals that align with your dietary preferences.

In this blog post, we’ve gathered over 25 low sodium, low protein recipes that are perfect for the holidays.

Whether you’re looking for savory sides, vibrant salads, or indulgent desserts, these recipes will make your holiday meals both nutritious and flavorful.

25+ Delicious Holiday Low Sodium Low Protein Recipes for Your Diets

With the holidays around the corner, it’s the perfect time to prepare meals that are both healthy and satisfying.

These 25+ low sodium, low protein recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures, allowing you to enjoy the festive season without compromising your dietary goals.

From light salads and side dishes to comforting soups and desserts, there’s something for every taste and occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply looking for healthy meal ideas, these recipes will make your celebration deliciously wholesome and guilt-free.

Embrace the spirit of the season with nourishing meals that are as good for your body as they are for your taste buds.

Holiday Vegetable & Herb Stuffed Peppers

Brighten your holiday table with this colorful, nutrient-conscious dish! These stuffed peppers are packed with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, offering a delightful balance of flavors while being gentle on sodium and protein levels. Perfect as a festive main course or a flavorful side dish, this recipe ensures a healthy, satisfying option for all.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup cooked white rice or quinoa
• 1 cup diced zucchini
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (no added salt)
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Black pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice or quinoa, zucchini, tomatoes, carrots, celery, parsley, olive oil, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the vegetable mixture, pressing lightly to fill.
5. Arrange the peppers upright in a baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

This vibrant dish celebrates the holiday season’s abundance of produce, creating a nutritious and flavorful addition to your table. The medley of herbs and veggies keeps the dish fresh, light, and satisfying.

Festive Apple & Cranberry Salad

This crisp and tangy salad is a delightful holiday treat, combining the natural sweetness of apples with the tartness of cranberries. It’s a refreshing and visually appealing dish that pairs perfectly with your holiday spread. Designed to be low in sodium and protein, it highlights the joy of eating wholesome, flavorful ingredients without compromise.

Ingredients

• 2 large apples (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, for texture)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or mint leaves
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, toss apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Add fresh cranberries, walnuts, and parsley or mint leaves to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and honey (if using).
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
5. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with additional parsley or cranberries for a festive touch.

This salad is a burst of seasonal flavor, offering a light and nutritious counterbalance to richer holiday dishes. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a standout addition to any holiday meal.

Herb-Roasted Root Vegetables

Bring warmth and comfort to your holiday table with this medley of roasted root vegetables. Infused with aromatic herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, this dish is both hearty and healthy. The natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables is enhanced by the herbs, making it a simple yet elegant choice for a low-sodium, low-protein holiday menu.

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (cubed)
• 2 large carrots (sliced)
• 1 medium parsnip (cubed)
• 1 medium beet (cubed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Black pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnip, and beet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with rosemary, thyme, and black pepper if desired. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

This dish celebrates the earthiness of root vegetables, transforming simple ingredients into a flavorful holiday delight. The slow roasting process brings out their natural sweetness, making them a wholesome and comforting addition to your festive table.

Warm Spiced Pumpkin Soup

This creamy and comforting pumpkin soup is the perfect addition to a cozy holiday meal. Bursting with the natural sweetness of pumpkin and warm spices, it delivers rich flavor without added sodium or excessive protein. Ideal as a starter or a light main course, this soup will leave your guests feeling nourished and satisfied.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pureed pumpkin (fresh or canned, unsalted)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or water
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Black pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
2. Stir in the pureed pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, cooking for 2-3 minutes to release the spices’ aroma.
3. Add the broth or water, stirring well, and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. If using, stir in coconut milk for added creaminess. Blend the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a swirl of coconut milk.

This soup is a hug in a bowl, offering warmth and gentle flavors that celebrate the essence of the holiday season. Its velvety texture and inviting aroma make it a memorable addition to any festive gathering.

Holiday Citrus & Herb Couscous

A bright and zesty dish, this citrus and herb couscous is a perfect low-sodium, low-protein option for your holiday menu. With vibrant bursts of citrus, fresh herbs, and tender couscous, it’s an elegant side that pairs beautifully with any main course.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole wheat couscous
• 1 1/4 cups water or unsalted vegetable broth
• 1 orange (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
• Black pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. In a small pot, bring water or unsalted vegetable broth to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and stir in couscous, olive oil, and orange juice. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Fluff couscous with a fork and transfer to a mixing bowl.
4. Add orange zest, parsley, mint, cucumber, and red bell pepper. Mix well to combine.
5. Adjust seasoning with black pepper if desired, and serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

This couscous dish is a burst of freshness on your holiday table, offering a light and refreshing contrast to heavier dishes. The citrus notes and fresh herbs make it a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ginger-Spiced Poached Pears

For a festive and elegant holiday dessert, these poached pears are both stunning and healthy. Infused with warm spices and a hint of sweetness, they’re the perfect low-sodium, low-protein option to satisfy your sweet tooth without guilt.

Ingredients

• 4 firm pears (peeled, stems intact)
• 4 cups water
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine water, honey or maple syrup (if using), cinnamon stick, ginger, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer.
2. Gently lower the pears into the simmering liquid, ensuring they’re fully submerged.
3. Cook the pears for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender.
4. Remove pears and let them cool slightly. Continue simmering the liquid for 5-10 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Serve the pears drizzled with the spiced syrup and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a sprig of fresh mint.

These poached pears are a delicate and sophisticated way to end your holiday meal. The tender fruit and subtly spiced syrup make this dessert both beautiful and indulgent without compromising on your dietary goals.

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate

This holiday dish combines the earthy flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts with the natural sweetness of maple syrup and the tart crunch of pomegranate seeds. It’s a nutrient-packed, low-sodium, and low-protein option that brings festive colors and textures to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup fresh pomegranate seeds
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• Black pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and drizzle with maple syrup and apple cider vinegar. Toss to coat.
5. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh pomegranate seeds for a vibrant finish.

This dish is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, offering a delightful mix of flavors that complement any holiday feast. Its festive presentation is sure to impress your guests.

Winter Vegetable Stew with Fresh Herbs

This hearty and comforting vegetable stew is packed with seasonal produce and fragrant herbs, making it the perfect low-sodium, low-protein choice for chilly holiday evenings. It’s both nourishing and satisfying, offering a cozy bowl of goodness for everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cubed butternut squash
• 2 cups diced carrots
• 1 cup diced parsnips
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
• 4 cups unsalted vegetable broth or water
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Black pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
2. Add the butternut squash, carrots, and parsnips. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth or water and add thyme and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

This stew is a warming celebration of winter’s bounty, offering a medley of flavors and textures that feel like a hug in a bowl. Its wholesome ingredients ensure everyone leaves the table happy and healthy.

Baked Cinnamon Pears with Walnuts

This simple yet elegant dessert combines the natural sweetness of baked pears with the warm, cozy flavor of cinnamon and the crunch of walnuts. It’s a light, low-sodium, low-protein treat that’s perfect for ending your holiday meal on a high note.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted coconut oil
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Brush with olive oil or melted coconut oil.
3. Sprinkle with cinnamon and drizzle with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
4. Top each pear half with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pears are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve warm, optionally with a dollop of unsweetened yogurt or a drizzle of additional syrup.

These baked pears are a delightful blend of sweet, spiced, and nutty flavors. Their simplicity and elegance make them an ideal holiday dessert that satisfies without being overly indulgent.

Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon and Tahini

This roasted cauliflower dish is a flavorful, light, and healthy holiday option. The cauliflower is roasted to perfection and topped with a tangy tahini dressing, complemented by the freshness of lemon. It’s a perfect side dish that’s low in sodium and protein while bursting with vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground paprika
• 1 tbsp tahini
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp water (to thin tahini sauce)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, paprika, and black pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and water until smooth.
5. Drizzle the tahini sauce over the roasted cauliflower and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This dish offers a wonderful balance of warmth from the roasted cauliflower and creaminess from the tahini sauce, with a refreshing lemon zing. It’s both a healthy and visually appealing option for your holiday meal.

Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries

These baked sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to the classic fried version, offering a sweet, savory, and satisfying snack or side dish. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with a touch of rosemary and garlic, all while being low in sodium and protein.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, garlic powder, rosemary, black pepper, and paprika (if using).
3. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
5. Serve warm, optionally with a low-sodium dipping sauce.

These sweet potato fries are a guilt-free indulgence, offering a crispy texture and satisfying flavor with a touch of rosemary and garlic. They make a wonderful side or snack, perfectly complementing any holiday spread.

Citrus-Infused Roasted Carrots

These citrus-infused roasted carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish, bursting with fresh citrus flavors and natural sweetness from the carrots. They’re low in sodium, low in protein, and perfect for adding a splash of color and flavor to your holiday meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 orange (zested and juiced)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the carrot slices with olive oil, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper.
3. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.

These citrus-infused roasted carrots offer a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors with a hint of warmth from the spices. They’re a light and flavorful addition to your holiday meal that everyone will enjoy.

Zucchini and Cherry Tomato Medley

This simple, vibrant dish combines fresh zucchini and juicy cherry tomatoes, lightly sautéed with olive oil and fresh herbs. It’s a light and flavorful side that’s perfect for the holiday season, offering a burst of color and taste without being heavy on sodium or protein.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add zucchini slices and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

This medley is a perfect balance of light and refreshing flavors with the natural sweetness of tomatoes and the mildness of zucchini. It’s an excellent side dish that complements richer holiday dishes while staying healthy and satisfying.

Cranberry-Orange Quinoa Salad

This festive quinoa salad is a refreshing and tangy dish perfect for the holidays. The combination of cranberries, orange zest, and quinoa creates a beautiful contrast of flavors and textures, all while being light on sodium and protein.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 orange, zested and juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa with chopped cranberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange zest, orange juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup (if using), and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Stir in fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This salad is a light yet flavorful addition to your holiday table, offering a perfect balance of tart cranberries and the refreshing citrus notes of orange. It’s both healthy and visually striking, making it a great choice for any festive meal.

Rosemary and Lemon Infused Roasted Potatoes

These rosemary and lemon roasted potatoes are a savory, aromatic side dish that is both simple and festive. The combination of rosemary and lemon brings out the natural flavors of the potatoes, making it a perfect low-sodium, low-protein option for the holiday season.

Ingredients

• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, lemon zest, and black pepper.
3. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and crispy.
5. Once out of the oven, drizzle with lemon juice and serve warm.

These roasted potatoes offer a fragrant and zesty twist on a classic holiday side dish. The rosemary and lemon infuse the potatoes with wonderful flavors, making them a light yet satisfying addition to your festive meal.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!