25+ Nutritious and Delicious Holiday Low Sodium Low Sugar Recipes for Your Feast

The holiday season is a time for indulgence, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your health goals in the process.

Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or simply enjoying holiday treats with loved ones, it’s possible to create meals that are both delicious and nutritious.

With increasing awareness around managing sodium and sugar intake, many are seeking ways to enjoy the season without compromising their health.

In this blog, we’ll share 25+ holiday low sodium and low sugar recipes that will allow you to savor the flavors of the season while keeping your meals heart-healthy and balanced.

From appetizers to main dishes and even desserts, these recipes offer a variety of options to suit all tastes and dietary needs.

With these festive dishes, you can celebrate the holidays without worrying about extra salt and sugar, ensuring you feel your best throughout the season.

25+ Nutritious and Delicious Holiday Low Sodium Low Sugar Recipes for Your Feast

Eating healthily during the holiday season doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the traditional flavors you love.

With these 25+ holiday low sodium and low sugar recipes, you can enjoy every course of your meal, from savory appetizers to sweet desserts, without worrying about excess salt or sugar.

These dishes are packed with vibrant, wholesome ingredients and are designed to nourish your body while satisfying your holiday cravings.

Whether you’re preparing a family feast or looking for lighter options, these recipes will make it easy to create a festive and health-conscious spread that everyone can enjoy.

Start incorporating these flavorful, nutritious dishes into your holiday meals and share them with your loved ones, proving that healthy eating can be just as festive and delicious as traditional holiday fare.

Holiday Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast

This tender herb-crusted turkey breast is the perfect centerpiece for a holiday meal. It’s flavored with fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of lemon zest, offering a burst of festive aroma and taste. Without added salt or sugar, this dish is an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional holiday roasts.

Ingredients:

• 1 boneless, skinless turkey breast (2-3 pounds)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, rosemary, thyme, and pepper to form a paste.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring even coverage.
4. Place the turkey breast on the baking sheet and roast for 45-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

This herb-crusted turkey breast proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland. Its fresh and zesty flavors pair beautifully with steamed vegetables or a quinoa salad, making it a standout dish for a holiday feast.

Maple-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Carrots

A colorful side dish packed with flavor, this recipe brings together roasted Brussels sprouts and carrots glazed with a hint of pure maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. The natural sweetness of the vegetables shines through, making it a delightful addition to your holiday table without excessive sugar or sodium.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 cups carrots, sliced into sticks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts and carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetables on the baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
5. Serve warm as a vibrant and healthy side dish.

This roasted vegetable medley is a perfect harmony of sweetness and tanginess. The natural flavors and simple seasoning make it an excellent low-sodium and low-sugar option for holiday meals. Pair it with a hearty main dish to complete your festive menu.

Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies

These soft and chewy cranberry orange oatmeal cookies are a holiday classic with a healthy twist. Sweetened with a touch of honey and loaded with dried cranberries and orange zest, they are perfect for dessert or as a midday snack. Low in sugar and free from sodium, they’re a guilt-free treat for everyone.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• ¾ cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• ½ cup unsweetened dried cranberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix oats, flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, applesauce, egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Fold in the dried cranberries.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the baking sheet, flattening slightly.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.

These cranberry orange oatmeal cookies are a wholesome way to satisfy your holiday sweet tooth. They’re a delightful balance of fruity and zesty flavors, perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive gatherings.

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries

This stuffed acorn squash recipe is a stunning and nutritious holiday dish that doubles as a side or a vegetarian main course. Filled with quinoa, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans, it’s naturally sweetened and seasoned with warming spices to create a festive and satisfying flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• ½ cup unsweetened dried cranberries
• ¼ cup chopped toasted pecans
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• ½ tsp ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Place the squash cut-side down in the baking dish and roast for 25 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cranberries, pecans, maple syrup, black pepper, and the remaining cinnamon and nutmeg.
4. Remove the squash from the oven, flip them cut-side up, and stuff each half with the quinoa mixture.
5. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of pecans if desired.

This stuffed acorn squash is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients and flavors that resonate with the holiday spirit. The sweetness from the cranberries and maple syrup pairs beautifully with the nutty quinoa, making it a memorable addition to your holiday menu.

Low-Sodium Sweet Potato and Apple Soup

Warm up your holiday gatherings with this creamy sweet potato and apple soup. Naturally sweetened by the apples and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, this comforting dish is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. It’s low in sodium, yet rich in flavors that capture the essence of the season.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced sweet potatoes, apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Remove from heat and blend the soup using an immersion blender or in batches with a blender until smooth.
5. Stir in almond milk and reheat gently before serving.

This sweet potato and apple soup is a velvety, comforting dish that feels indulgent while remaining health-conscious. Its natural sweetness and warming spices make it a perfect start to any holiday meal or a cozy option for a cold winter day.

Low Sugar Spiced Pear Cake

This spiced pear cake is a holiday dessert that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Sweetened naturally with ripe pears and a touch of honey, it’s moist, flavorful, and infused with cinnamon and ginger for a seasonal touch. This cake is a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without added sugar.

Ingredients:

• 2 large ripe pears, peeled and diced
• 1½ cups whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, olive oil, honey, vanilla extract, and almond milk until combined. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
4. Fold in the diced pears. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving.

This spiced pear cake brings a touch of sweetness and warmth to your holiday dessert table. Its moist texture and natural flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that’s both wholesome and indulgent. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect holiday treat.

Garlic and Herb Mashed Cauliflower

A lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this creamy mashed cauliflower dish is infused with garlic and fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Low in sodium and free of added sugar, it’s the perfect side to accompany your holiday mains.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• ½ tsp ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add cauliflower florets. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Transfer the cauliflower to a food processor. Add sautéed garlic, almond milk, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

This garlic and herb mashed cauliflower is a flavorful, nutrient-packed dish that feels indulgent yet light. Its creamy texture and savory taste make it an excellent low-sodium substitute for traditional mashed potatoes.

Baked Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

This warm and comforting baked apple crisp is naturally sweetened with apples and a touch of honey, and its crunchy oat topping is spiced with cinnamon for a festive touch. It’s a guilt-free dessert that’s both low in sugar and bursting with holiday flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, toss apple slices with 1 tbsp honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread evenly in the prepared dish.
3. In another bowl, mix oats, applesauce, olive oil, and the remaining honey. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
5. Serve warm, optionally with unsweetened whipped cream or Greek yogurt.

This baked apple crisp is a delightful holiday dessert that’s both healthy and satisfying. Its natural sweetness and crunchy oat topping make it a family favorite, perfect for ending any holiday meal on a high note.

Low-Sodium Lentil Loaf

This hearty lentil loaf is a nutritious and festive alternative to traditional meatloaf, making it a great option for vegetarians and those watching their sodium intake. Packed with lentils, vegetables, and a flavorful glaze, it’s a wholesome and filling main dish for the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small carrot, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tbsp water (flax egg)
• ½ cup unsweetened tomato sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground black pepper

Glaze Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp unsweetened tomato sauce
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, quinoa, onion, carrot, garlic, flax egg, tomato sauce, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
4. In a small bowl, mix the glaze ingredients. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the loaf.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until firm. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

This lentil loaf is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a holiday dinner. Its robust texture and savory glaze make it a satisfying centerpiece, offering a nutritious and low-sodium option for vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

This roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is a simple yet flavorful side dish that makes a perfect accompaniment to any holiday meal. The Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze that adds depth without the need for added sugar or excessive sodium.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey (optional for extra sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, black pepper, and garlic powder. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
4. In a small saucepan, heat balsamic vinegar and honey (if using) over medium heat. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts before serving.

These roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are an easy and healthy side dish that complements any holiday meal. The combination of crispy Brussels sprouts with the sweet and tangy balsamic glaze offers a delicious, nutrient-dense addition to your festive spread.

Crispy Roasted Chickpeas

These crispy roasted chickpeas are a crunchy and satisfying snack perfect for holiday parties or a light appetizer. Low in sodium and free of refined sugars, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional chips or snacks. Spiced with a blend of cumin, paprika, and garlic, they’re packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan every 10 minutes to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Let them cool slightly before serving.

These crispy roasted chickpeas are a healthy, flavorful snack that is perfect for holiday entertaining. With their satisfying crunch and bold spices, they make a great alternative to higher-sodium and sugar-laden snacks, offering both health benefits and taste.

Pumpkin and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

These pumpkin and spinach stuffed mushrooms are a savory, nutritious appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. The earthy flavor of mushrooms combines wonderfully with the creamy pumpkin and spinach filling, and the dish is naturally low in sodium and sugar.

Ingredients:

• 12 large white mushrooms, stems removed
• ½ cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix the cooked spinach with pumpkin puree, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, thyme, and black pepper.
4. Stuff the mushroom caps with the pumpkin-spinach mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is slightly golden.
6. Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.

These pumpkin and spinach stuffed mushrooms are a delightful and nutritious addition to your holiday table. The creamy pumpkin filling paired with the earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach creates a satisfying and savory bite that is both healthy and festive.

Zucchini and Tomato Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This fresh, crisp zucchini and tomato salad is light and flavorful, making it the perfect side dish for your holiday meals. Tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing addition to your table that’s low in both sodium and sugar. This dish is filled with the vibrant tastes of fresh vegetables, making it a healthy and colorful choice for any holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh basil, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
5. Chill for about 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator before serving for enhanced flavor.

This zucchini and tomato salad with lemon vinaigrette is the ideal healthy side dish for a holiday meal. The crisp vegetables and bright, tangy vinaigrette bring out a refreshing flavor that balances out richer, heavier holiday dishes. This is a great way to enjoy a burst of freshness without adding any extra sodium or sugar.

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Avocado and Black Beans

These stuffed sweet potatoes are an ideal main or side dish for a holiday gathering. The naturally sweet and creamy texture of the roasted sweet potatoes is complemented by the hearty black beans and rich avocado. It’s a flavorful, nutrient-packed option that’s low in sodium and free from refined sugars, offering a wholesome, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and place them on the baking sheet. Roast for 40-45 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the black beans, red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until heated through.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are done, cut them open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Spoon the black bean mixture into the sweet potatoes, and top with diced avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
6. Drizzle with lime juice before serving.

Stuffed sweet potatoes with avocado and black beans are the ultimate combination of sweet and savory flavors. They’re filling and satisfying without the heaviness of added sugars or excessive salt. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, they are a perfect choice for a nutritious holiday meal that everyone can enjoy.

Low-Sodium Carrot Cake Bites

These low-sodium carrot cake bites are a healthier alternative to the traditional dessert. Naturally sweetened with dates and carrots, and made with almond flour, they’re perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a festive treat without the added sugar or salt. These little bites are great for holiday parties, offering a burst of flavor in every bite without the guilt.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup pitted Medjool dates
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the grated carrots and dates. Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky, cohesive dough.
2. Add the almond flour, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Process again until everything is well combined.
3. If the mixture is too sticky, add a bit more almond flour until you can form it into balls.
4. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
5. Optionally, roll each ball in shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up before serving.

These low-sodium carrot cake bites are a delicious and healthier way to enjoy a beloved holiday dessert. The natural sweetness of dates and carrots gives these treats the perfect balance of flavor, while the almond flour keeps them light and nutritious. They’re a great option for anyone who wants to indulge in a festive snack without worrying about added sodium or sugar.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!