35+ Easy Holiday Low Sodium Pressure Cooker Recipes for a Healthier Feast

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and, of course, delicious food. However, for those watching their sodium intake, navigating the festive menu can be challenging.

Traditional holiday dishes are often laden with salt, making it difficult to stay on track with health goals. That’s where pressure cooker recipes come to the rescue!

Pressure cookers are a game-changer for creating flavorful, low-sodium meals in record time.

By sealing in natural flavors and nutrients, they allow you to craft dishes that are both wholesome and indulgent.

Whether you’re hosting a grand dinner or looking for easy potluck options, this collection of 35+ holiday low sodium pressure cooker recipes has something for everyone.

From savory mains to hearty sides and even delectable desserts, these recipes prove that eating healthfully doesn’t mean compromising on taste.

So, grab your pressure cooker, and let’s dive into a world of festive, low-sodium dishes that will keep your guests coming back for seconds—without any guilt.

35+ Easy Holiday Low Sodium Pressure Cooker Recipes for a Healthier Feast

This holiday season, let your pressure cooker be your secret weapon for creating nutritious and delicious meals that everyone will love.

With over 35 low sodium recipes to choose from, you’ll find inspiration for every course, from appetizers to desserts.

These recipes showcase that holiday meals can be festive and flavorful without relying on excess salt.

By embracing wholesome ingredients and creative cooking techniques, you can bring a healthier twist to the holiday table while still indulging in all the joy and comfort that seasonal dishes bring.

Whether you’re cooking for a small gathering or a festive crowd, these recipes will make your holidays memorable and satisfying.

So, as you plan your holiday menu, remember: delicious, low-sodium dishes are just a pressure cooker away. Cheers to a season filled with health, happiness, and fantastic food!

Holiday Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast

This tender, herb-infused turkey breast is perfect for a small holiday gathering. Using fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of citrus, this recipe delivers all the festive flavors of a traditional roast turkey but with significantly less sodium. Cooking the turkey in a pressure cooker ensures a juicy and flavorful centerpiece for your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 3-pound turkey breast (boneless or bone-in)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped

Instructions:

1. Prep the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Mix the olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Rub the mixture generously over the turkey.
2. Sear the Turkey: Turn the pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the turkey breast for 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Add Vegetables and Broth: Layer the onion and celery in the bottom of the pressure cooker. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Place the turkey breast on top of the vegetables.
4. Cook: Lock the lid and set the pressure cooker to manual high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Rest and Slice: Remove the turkey and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

This Holiday Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast is a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional holiday roasts. Serve it with steamed vegetables and a side of low-sodium gravy for a complete, festive meal. Its tender, herbaceous flavor will impress your guests without the need for added salt.

Low-Sodium Festive Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed sweet potatoes are a holiday staple, and this pressure cooker version is as creamy and flavorful as ever—without the added sodium. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of maple syrup bring warm holiday spices to these naturally sweet potatoes, making them a perfect side dish for any festive meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup milk or unsweetened almond milk

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Add the sweet potato cubes and water to the pressure cooker. Lock the lid and set it to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. Perform a quick release once the timer ends.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Drain any excess water and return the sweet potatoes to the pressure cooker. Add butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and milk. Mash until smooth using a potato masher or hand mixer. Adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Serve Warm: Transfer the mashed sweet potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

These Low-Sodium Festive Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a creamy, flavorful addition to your holiday spread. The natural sweetness of the potatoes and the warm spices create a dish that feels indulgent without the need for added salt. Pair it with your favorite holiday entrees for a crowd-pleasing side.

Pressure Cooker Cranberry Apple Compote

Sweet, tangy, and bursting with holiday flavors, this cranberry apple compote is the perfect low-sodium topping for your festive meals. It pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or even desserts like yogurt or ice cream. The pressure cooker locks in the fruit’s natural sweetness, eliminating the need for excess sugar or salt.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 2 large apples, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 cup water
• Zest of 1 orange

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: Add cranberries, apples, maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, water, and orange zest to the pressure cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cook: Lock the lid and set the pressure cooker to manual high pressure for 5 minutes. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
3. Mash or Blend: For a chunky compote, use a spoon to gently mash the fruit. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender.
4. Cool and Serve: Let the compote cool slightly before serving.

This Pressure Cooker Cranberry Apple Compote is a versatile and festive condiment that’s perfect for the holidays. Its sweet-tart flavor complements savory dishes beautifully, while its low sodium content makes it a guilt-free addition to your holiday table.

Holiday Honey-Glazed Carrots

Bright, tender, and lightly sweetened, these Holiday Honey-Glazed Carrots are a simple yet elegant low-sodium side dish. The pressure cooker locks in the natural sweetness of the carrots, while a touch of honey and fresh herbs adds holiday flair. This dish is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with any holiday entree.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound baby carrots (or sliced large carrots)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh, chopped)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Carrots: Add the carrots and water to the pressure cooker. Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 2 minutes. Perform a quick release.
2. Glaze the Carrots: Drain any remaining water and set the cooker to sauté mode. Add the butter, honey, and thyme. Toss the carrots to coat and cook for 2-3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
3. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley.

These Holiday Honey-Glazed Carrots are a colorful and flavorful addition to your holiday table. With their natural sweetness and light glaze, they’re a perfect low-sodium side dish that will delight both kids and adults.

Low-Sodium Garlic and Herb Mashed Cauliflower

Creamy and rich, this mashed cauliflower dish is a fantastic low-sodium alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Infused with roasted garlic and fresh herbs, this recipe delivers all the comfort and flavor you expect during the holidays. The pressure cooker simplifies the process, making it a quick and healthy side dish for your festive meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or low-sodium broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried chives (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the Cauliflower and Garlic: Add the cauliflower florets and garlic cloves to the pressure cooker with 1/4 cup water. Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 5 minutes. Perform a quick release.
2. Mash the Cauliflower: Drain any excess water and return the cauliflower and garlic to the cooker. Add almond milk, butter, chives, and black pepper. Mash until smooth using a potato masher or an immersion blender.
3. Serve Warm: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional chives if desired.

This Low-Sodium Garlic and Herb Mashed Cauliflower is a creamy and satisfying side dish that fits perfectly into your holiday meal plan. Its light texture and bold flavors make it a standout addition to any festive spread.

Pressure Cooker Apple Spice Bread Pudding

Warm, spiced, and comforting, this Apple Spice Bread Pudding is a holiday dessert that’s both indulgent and low in sodium. With tender apples, fragrant cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The pressure cooker makes it easy to achieve a perfectly moist pudding that’s ready in no time.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups cubed whole-grain bread (day-old or slightly stale)
• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together almond milk, eggs, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Add bread cubes, apples, and raisins (if using). Toss to coat and let sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
2. Cook in the Pressure Cooker: Grease a heatproof baking dish that fits inside your pressure cooker. Pour the bread mixture into the dish and cover tightly with foil. Add 1 cup of water to the pressure cooker and place a trivet inside. Lower the dish onto the trivet. Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 25 minutes. Perform a quick release.
3. Cool and Serve: Remove the dish carefully and let the bread pudding cool for 10 minutes before serving.

This Pressure Cooker Apple Spice Bread Pudding is a delightful way to end a holiday meal. Its warm spices and tender apples make it a comforting and festive dessert that everyone can enjoy, even those watching their sodium intake.

Low-Sodium Holiday Beef Stew

This hearty, flavorful beef stew is a warm and comforting holiday favorite that’s perfect for cold winter evenings. Loaded with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it offers a rich taste without added sodium. The pressure cooker tenderizes the meat and melds the flavors quickly, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday menu.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup chopped potatoes
• 1 cup no-salt-added tomato sauce
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef: Set the pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add olive oil and sear the beef cubes for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pressure cooker. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the potatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and bay leaf.
4. Cook: Lock the lid and set the pressure cooker to manual high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the stew into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

This Low-Sodium Holiday Beef Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings comfort to the holiday table. Packed with vegetables and tender beef, it’s a satisfying option for family and guests alike. Serve with a slice of low-sodium bread for the ultimate winter meal.

Holiday Lemon Garlic Green Beans

These Lemon Garlic Green Beans are a light and refreshing side dish that adds a burst of color and flavor to your holiday spread. The citrusy zing of lemon pairs beautifully with the earthy garlic, creating a vibrant dish that complements any holiday entree. The pressure cooker ensures perfectly tender beans in just minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Green Beans: Add the green beans and water to the pressure cooker. Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 1 minute. Perform a quick release.
2. Sauté with Garlic: Drain any remaining water and set the cooker to sauté mode. Add olive oil and garlic, stirring until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add Lemon: Toss the green beans with lemon zest and juice. Season with black pepper.
4. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.

These Holiday Lemon Garlic Green Beans are a simple yet flavorful side that’s perfect for balancing richer dishes on your holiday table. Their bright flavor and crisp-tender texture make them a must-have addition to any festive feast.

Pressure Cooker Low-Sodium Pumpkin Risotto

Rich, creamy, and full of festive flavors, this Low-Sodium Pumpkin Risotto is a sophisticated addition to your holiday menu. Arborio rice absorbs the sweetness of pumpkin and the warmth of nutmeg and sage, creating a dish that feels indulgent but remains healthy. The pressure cooker makes risotto a breeze, giving you restaurant-quality results in less time.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsalted)
• 2.5 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, warmed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Set the pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic, cooking until softened (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Toast the Rice: Add the Arborio rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
3. Add Pumpkin and Broth: Stir in the pumpkin, nutmeg, sage, and warmed vegetable broth. Mix well.
4. Cook: Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 6 minutes. Perform a quick release.
5. Stir and Serve: Stir the risotto until creamy. Add Parmesan cheese if using and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This Pressure Cooker Low-Sodium Pumpkin Risotto is a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and comforting flavors. It’s perfect as a main course or a side dish, offering a taste of holiday cheer in every bite.

Low-Sodium Cranberry Orange Chicken

Infused with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the zesty brightness of oranges, this Low-Sodium Cranberry Orange Chicken is a show-stopping holiday main dish. The pressure cooker ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy while blending the vibrant flavors of fruit and spices into every bite. It’s an elegant, healthy alternative for your holiday centerpiece.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• Juice and zest of 1 large orange
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Sear the Chicken: Set the pressure cooker to sauté mode. Heat the olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for 2 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: Add cranberries, orange juice, zest, honey, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper to the cooker. Stir and let simmer for 1-2 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the pot, ensuring they’re coated with the sauce. Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. Perform a quick release.
4. Serve: Plate the chicken and spoon the cranberry orange sauce on top. Garnish with fresh orange slices or parsley if desired.

This Low-Sodium Cranberry Orange Chicken is a festive and flavorful addition to your holiday menu. The tangy sauce and tender chicken create a delightful balance of savory and sweet, making it a dish that will impress your guests without compromising on health.

Pressure Cooker Sweet Potato Quinoa Pilaf

Packed with nutrient-rich sweet potatoes and protein-filled quinoa, this Low-Sodium Sweet Potato Quinoa Pilaf is a colorful and hearty holiday side dish. Enhanced with warm spices, dried cranberries, and a hint of nuts, this dish is a wholesome, vibrant addition to your festive table.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onion and Spices: Set the pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add quinoa, diced sweet potato, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
3. Cook: Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 2 minutes. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
4. Finish and Serve: Stir in dried cranberries and nuts, if using. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with parsley.

This Sweet Potato Quinoa Pilaf is a delicious and nutritious way to brighten your holiday spread. The combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors creates a well-rounded side dish that’s as healthy as it is festive.

Holiday Spiced Pears in Mulled Juice

Elegant and aromatic, these Holiday Spiced Pears are gently poached in a mulled fruit juice, creating a dessert that’s both light and flavorful. Perfectly tender and infused with warm spices, this dish is a sophisticated way to end your holiday meal while keeping sodium levels in check.

Ingredients:

• 4 firm pears, peeled and cored
• 2 cups unsweetened apple juice or cranberry juice
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 star anise pod
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spiced Juice: Add apple or cranberry juice, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, lemon zest, and honey to the pressure cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cook the Pears: Place the pears in the spiced juice. Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 4 minutes. Perform a quick release.
3. Reduce the Sauce: Carefully remove the pears and set them aside. Set the pressure cooker to sauté mode and simmer the juice for 5-7 minutes until slightly reduced.
4. Serve: Place each pear in a bowl and drizzle with the reduced spiced juice. Garnish with additional zest or a cinnamon stick if desired.

These Holiday Spiced Pears are a light, refined dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of fruit enhanced by festive spices. They’re the perfect choice for a guilt-free holiday treat that’s both stunning and flavorful.

Low-Sodium Holiday Turkey Chili

Warm and comforting, this Low-Sodium Holiday Turkey Chili is a hearty dish that’s perfect for casual gatherings or family meals during the festive season. Made with lean turkey, seasonal vegetables, and bold spices, it delivers incredible flavor without relying on added sodium. It’s a great alternative to traditional holiday entrees.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup no-salt-added diced tomatoes
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup canned kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Turkey and Vegetables: Set the pressure cooker to sauté mode. Heat olive oil and cook the turkey until browned. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers, cooking until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, beans, and spices. Mix well.
3. Cook: Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 15 minutes. Perform a quick release.
4. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or a dollop of low-sodium Greek yogurt.

This Low-Sodium Holiday Turkey Chili is a crowd-pleaser that combines the warmth of chili spices with the heartiness of turkey and beans. It’s ideal for cozy evenings and pairs perfectly with cornbread or a simple green salad.

Pressure Cooker Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and full of herbaceous flavor, these Low-Sodium Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes are a delightful holiday side dish. With the pressure cooker’s efficiency, the potatoes cook to perfection while absorbing the aroma of fresh rosemary and thyme, creating a comforting dish that’s both simple and elegant.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted almond milk or low-sodium broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Potatoes: Add diced potatoes and water to the pressure cooker. Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. Perform a quick release.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add almond milk, butter, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Mash until smooth.
3. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

These Low-Sodium Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes are creamy, aromatic, and an excellent addition to any holiday meal. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats or vegetarian mains, offering a comforting, flavorful side without extra sodium.

Low-Sodium Holiday Apple Spice Cake

This moist and fragrant Apple Spice Cake is a holiday dessert that’s both healthy and indulgent. Sweetened with natural applesauce and warm spices, it’s a low-sodium treat that brings festive cheer to the table. The pressure cooker ensures a perfectly tender texture while locking in the seasonal flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup diced apple
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. In a separate bowl, whisk together applesauce, honey, and eggs. Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients. Fold in diced apple and walnuts if using.
2. Cook the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased 7-inch cake pan that fits in your pressure cooker. Add 1 cup of water to the pressure cooker and place the cake pan on a trivet. Lock the lid and set to manual high pressure for 35 minutes. Perform a quick release.
3. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool before removing from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar or serve as is.

This Low-Sodium Holiday Apple Spice Cake is a warm, festive dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Its spiced apple flavor and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s a guilt-free way to end your holiday meal.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!