15 Low-Sodium Turkey Day Recipe Ideas

15 Low-Sodium Turkey Day Recipe Ideas

Savory Herb-Infused Roast Turkey

herb infused roast turkey recipe

Savory Herb-Infused Roast Turkey is a delicious and health-conscious option for your Thanksgiving feast. This low-sodium recipe highlights the natural flavors of the turkey by using a blend of fresh herbs and spices to create a fragrant and succulent main dish that will satisfy your guests without the extra salt.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole turkey 12-14 pounds
Olive oil 1/2 cup
Fresh rosemary 3 tablespoons
Fresh thyme 3 tablespoons
Fresh sage 3 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 6 cloves
Fresh lemon (juiced) 2 lemons
Black pepper 1 tablespoon
Onion (quartered) 1 large
Carrots (cut into chunks) 3
Celery (cut into chunks) 2 stalks
Low-sodium chicken broth 2 cups

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon juice, and black pepper to create the herb mixture.
  3. Pat the turkey dry and gently loosen the skin with your fingers; rub half of the herb mixture under the skin and the rest all over the outside of the turkey.
  4. Stuff the cavity with onion, carrots, and celery for added moisture and flavor.
  5. Place the turkey breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan and pour low-sodium chicken broth into the pan.
  6. Roast the turkey, basting occasionally, for about 2 to 2.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving. Enjoy your flavorful, low-sodium turkey!
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Cranberry Orange Relish

cranberry orange relish recipe

Cranberry Orange Relish is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that complements the savory flavors of the Thanksgiving feast while keeping your meal low in sodium. This zesty relish blends tart cranberries with sweet oranges and a touch of honey, creating a delightful balance that adds both color and brightness to your holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cranberries 12 ounces
Orange (zested and juiced) 1 large
Honey 1/4 cup
Fresh ginger (grated) 1 tablespoon
Cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Water 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse the cranberries and remove any damaged ones.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, zest, honey, grated ginger, cinnamon, and water.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and let cool for at least 30 minutes. The relish can be served chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your tangy, low-sodium cranberry orange relish!
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Garlic Herb Mashed Cauliflower

garlic herb cauliflower mash

Garlic Herb Mashed Cauliflower is a delicious, low-sodium alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, offering a creamy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with your Thanksgiving turkey. This dish brings together the lightness of cauliflower with the aromatic flavors of garlic and fresh herbs, making it a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Ingredients Quantity
Cauliflower florets 1 large head
Garlic cloves (minced) 3
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley (chopped) 2 tablespoons
Black pepper To taste
Vegetable broth 1/2 cup
Cream cheese (light) 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes.
  2. In a large frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Drain the cauliflower and transfer it to a food processor along with sautéed garlic, vegetable broth, light cream cheese, and black pepper.
  4. Blend until smooth and creamy, then stir in chopped parsley.
  5. Adjust seasoning to taste, and serve warm. Enjoy your flavorful and healthy Garlic Herb Mashed Cauliflower!
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Sautéed Green Beans With Almonds

saut ed green beans almond dish

Sautéed Green Beans With Almonds is a vibrant and nutritious side dish that adds crunch and flavor to your Thanksgiving table. This simple yet elegant recipe features fresh green beans that are lightly sautéed and tossed with almonds, providing a delightful texture and a hint of nuttiness, while keeping the sodium content low.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic cloves (minced) 2
Sliced almonds 1/4 cup
Black pepper To taste
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Trim the ends of the green beans and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green; then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
  3. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and sauté for an additional 3-5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
  4. Stir in sliced almonds and black pepper; cook for another minute.
  5. Drizzle with lemon juice before serving. Enjoy your Sautéed Green Beans With Almonds!
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Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffing

nutritious quinoa vegetable stuffing

Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffing is a wholesome and flavorful dish that makes a perfect alternative to traditional bread-based stuffing during Thanksgiving. Packed with protein and fiber from quinoa and a colorful mix of seasonal vegetables, this low-sodium recipe creates a filling side that is both nutritious and satisfying for the holiday feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth (low-sodium) 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Celery (chopped) 2 stalks
Carrot (chopped) 1 medium
Bell pepper (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic cloves (minced) 2
Thyme (dried) 1 teaspoon
Black pepper To taste
Fresh parsley (chopped) 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then combine with vegetable broth in a saucepan; bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer covered for about 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté onion, celery, carrot, bell pepper, and garlic until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in cooked quinoa, thyme, and black pepper into the skillet, mixing well to combine.
  4. Remove from heat and add chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffing!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Balsamic Glaze

roasted brussels sprouts recipe

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze is a delightful and healthful side dish that enhances any Thanksgiving meal. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts while paired with a rich balsamic glaze, creating an irresistible blend of flavors. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that is low in sodium and sure to be a crowd-pleaser during the festivities.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup
Honey (optional) 1 tablespoon
Black pepper To taste
Fresh parsley (chopped) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss them in olive oil, black pepper, and honey if using.
  3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes until they’re tender and golden brown, stirring halfway through.
  4. Once roasted, drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss to combine, then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze!
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Sweet Potato Casserole With Cinnamon Topping

sweet potato casserole recipe

Sweet Potato Casserole with Cinnamon Topping is a comforting and delectable side dish that highlights the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast. This recipe is low in sodium, allowing you to enjoy the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg while keeping it heart-healthy. The crunchy topping adds a delightful texture that balances the creamy sweet potato base.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 3 cups (mashed)
Unsweetened almond milk 1/2 cup
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Egg 1 (beaten)
Oats 1/2 cup
Chopped pecans 1/4 cup
Coconut oil (melted) 2 tablespoons
Brown sugar (optional) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, almond milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and beaten egg, mixing well until smooth.
  3. Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a greased baking dish.
  4. In another bowl, mix the oats, chopped pecans, melted coconut oil, and brown sugar if using, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the sweet potato layer.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden and the casserole is heated through. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Sweet Potato Casserole with Cinnamon Topping!
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Herb-Seasoned Roasted Carrots

herb seasoned roasted carrots recipe

Herb-Seasoned Roasted Carrots are a delightful and nutritious side dish perfect for your Thanksgiving table. This recipe focuses on the natural sweetness of carrots and enhances their flavor with aromatic herbs, creating a low-sodium option that is both delicious and heart-healthy. Roasting the carrots brings out their natural sugars, making them tender and caramelized, while the herbs add a fresh kick.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh rosemary (chopped) 1 tablespoon
Fresh thyme (chopped) 1 tablespoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash and peel the carrots, then cut them into uniform sticks for even cooking.
  3. In a mixing bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice until well coated.
  4. Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until fork-tender and lightly caramelized. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Herb-Seasoned Roasted Carrots!
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Creamy Pumpkin Soup

cozy roasted pumpkin soup

Creamy Pumpkin Soup is a cozy and comforting dish that captures the essence of fall while providing a nutritious, low-sodium option for your Thanksgiving feast. This creamy soup combines the rich flavors of roasted pumpkin and spices, making it a delightful starter or a light meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for the busy holiday season.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin (peeled, seeds removed, and chopped) 2 cups
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Vegetable broth (low-sodium) 4 cups
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Coconut milk 1 cup
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onions and garlic until they are soft and translucent.
  2. Add the chopped pumpkin, vegetable broth, cumin, nutmeg, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pumpkin is tender (about 15-20 minutes).
  3. Once the pumpkin is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender in batches.
  4. Stir in the coconut milk and heat through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy your creamy pumpkin soup as a heart-healthy addition to your holiday meal!
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Spinach and Mushroom Salad

fresh spinach mushroom salad

Spinach and Mushroom Salad is a light yet satisfying dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach and earthy mushrooms, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving spread. This salad is not only low in sodium but also packed with nutrients, providing a refreshing contrast to the traditional heavy holiday dishes. It’s quick to prepare and can be enjoyed as a starter or a side.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach 6 cups
Mushrooms (sliced) 2 cups
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 cup
Red onion (thinly sliced) 1/2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Feta cheese (crumbled) 1/2 cup (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and black pepper to create a dressing.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
  4. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Spinach and Mushroom Salad!

Homemade Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls

wholesome whole wheat rolls

Homemade Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls are a wholesome and hearty addition to your Thanksgiving table, offering a nutritious twist on the classic bread roll. These rolls are made with whole wheat flour, making them a healthier choice and providing plenty of fiber to keep you feeling satisfied throughout the holiday feast. Soft and fluffy, they can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile side for any meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole wheat flour 3 cups
Active dry yeast 2 teaspoons
Warm water 1 cup
Honey 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon (optional) 1/2 teaspoon
Egg (for egg wash, optional) 1

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and honey; stir in active dry yeast and let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, salt, and optional cinnamon. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the risen dough and shape it into small balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. If using, brush the tops with beaten egg for a shiny finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutty Apple Crisp

nutty apple crisp recipe

Nutty Apple Crisp is a delightful dessert that combines warm, tender apples with a crunchy, nutty topping. This low-sodium version is perfect for a Thanksgiving treat, offering a sweet and comforting ending to your holiday meal without the excess salt. Packed with flavor and texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make.

Ingredients Quantity
Apples (peeled, cored, sliced) 6 cups
Rolled oats 1 cup
Almonds (chopped) 1/2 cup
Whole wheat flour 1/2 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/4 cup
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice and cinnamon; spread evenly in a greased baking dish.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped almonds, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, nutmeg, and melted butter to create a crumbly topping.
  4. Evenly sprinkle the nutty topping over the apple mixture.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. Serve warm, optionally with low-sodium yogurt or ice cream. Enjoy!

Low-Sodium Gravy

guilt free low sodium gravy

Low-Sodium Gravy is a rich and savory sauce perfect for drenching turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing on your Thanksgiving table. This healthier version uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful gravy without the extra sodium, ensuring everyone can enjoy it guilt-free.

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 4 tablespoons
Whole wheat flour 1/4 cup
Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth 2 cups
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon
Onion powder 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh herbs (optional) To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the whole wheat flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, whisking continuously to create a roux.
  3. Gradually add the low-sodium broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
  4. Season with black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the gravy thickens, stirring occasionally.
  5. If desired, add fresh herbs for extra flavor. Serve warm over your Thanksgiving dishes. Enjoy!

Citrus and Pomegranate Spinach Salad

colorful spinach citrus salad

Citrus and Pomegranate Spinach Salad is a refreshing and vibrant side dish that brings a burst of flavor and color to your Thanksgiving table. Packed with nutrient-rich spinach, juicy citrus segments, and tart pomegranate seeds, this salad is not only low in sodium but also a healthy addition to your holiday feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach 6 cups
Orange 1 large, segmented
Grapefruit 1 large, segmented
Pomegranate seeds 1 cup
Red onion 1/4 small, thinly sliced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Black pepper To taste
Feta cheese (optional) 1/4 cup, crumbled

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, orange segments, grapefruit segments, pomegranate seeds, and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper to make the dressing.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your festive salad!

Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse

creamy vegan chocolate mousse

Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse is a rich and creamy dessert that offers a decadent indulgence without the guilt of high sodium. This vegan treat combines the health benefits of avocados with the lusciousness of dark chocolate, creating a smooth texture that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth during the Thanksgiving festivities.

Ingredients Quantity
Ripe avocados 2 large
Dark chocolate (melted) 1 cup (about 6 ounces)
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tablespoons
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Sea salt (optional) A pinch

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocados, melted dark chocolate, maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as necessary to ensure everything is well combined.
  3. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired by adding more maple syrup.
  4. Spoon the mousse into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  5. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with fresh berries or whipped coconut cream. Enjoy your low-sodium, delicious dessert!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.