When it comes to managing your kidney health, diet plays a crucial role. A well-planned meal can make all the difference in keeping your kidneys happy and healthy. At Davita, we understand that cooking for kidney disease doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or variety. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 delicious recipes, each carefully crafted to meet the dietary needs of those with kidney disease.
From savory main dishes to sweet treats, our recipes are designed to be not only tasty but also nutritious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouthwatering kidney-friendly Davita recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on old favorites, each recipe has been carefully tested and reviewed by our team of registered dietitians and culinary experts. So grab a pen and paper, and get ready to cook up some delicious meals that will keep your kidneys happy and healthy!
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this bright and refreshing recipe, featuring the perfect balance of citrusy lemon and fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a fresh and zesty salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the black beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Quinoa cooking time: 15-20 minutes
– Total preparation time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious quinoa and black bean salad!
Roasted Vegetable Medley
Roasted Vegetable Medley Recipe
Summary:
This colorful medley of roasted vegetables is a perfect side dish or topping for your favorite meals. With its sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the sweet potato, zucchinis, bell peppers, red onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Toss to coat evenly and spread out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Sodium Turkey Meatballs
Low-Sodium Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Reduce sodium intake without sacrificing flavor with these tasty low-sodium turkey meatballs. Perfect for a healthy twist on your favorite pasta dishes or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt-free seasoning blend (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, onion, egg, olive oil, oregano, and seasoning blend. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each for even cooking.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Sodium Content: Approximately 250mg per serving
Note: You can also cook these meatballs in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat, browning both sides and then finishing with a few minutes of simmering. Cooking time will vary depending on method and desired level of doneness.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Elevate your seafood game with these succulent shrimp skewers smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto the shrimp, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Elevate your pasta game with this simple and flavorful recipe that swaps traditional noodles for zucchini “noodles” (zoodles) and pairs them with a classic pesto sauce. This dish is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a creative side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the zoodles and sprinkle with salt. Toss to combine.
4. Roast the zoodles in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender but still slightly firm.
5. In a large skillet, warm the pesto over medium heat.
6. Add the roasted zoodles to the skillet and toss with the pesto until well coated.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Sweet Potato and Kale Hash
This sweet and savory hash combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of kale, perfect for a nutritious breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the kale. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges or crumbled feta cheese (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Berry Smoothie with Almond Milk
This refreshing smoothie is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy berries, creamy almond milk, and a hint of vanilla. It’s a quick and easy way to get your daily dose of fruits and calcium.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the mixed berries, almond milk, and honey or maple syrup (if using).
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and blend for another second or two to combine.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None!
Tips:
– Use fresh or frozen berries, whichever is in season.
– Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your taste.
– Experiment with other flavors like cocoa powder or nutmeg for a unique twist.
Baked Cod with Lemon and Dill
Brighten up your dinner routine with this refreshing and flavorful recipe. Baking cod fillets with a zesty lemon-dill sauce yields a moist and aromatic dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the cod, then sprinkle with lemon juice, garlic, and dill.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
A healthy twist on traditional rice, this cauliflower stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious side dish or main course option.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
2. Cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked cauliflower “rice”; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
6. Season with soy sauce and sesame oil; adjust salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chickpea and Spinach Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the earthy sweetness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a hearty and comforting bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, all wrapped up in a deliciously creamy oatmeal dish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 apple, diced
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the oats and water/milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
3. Add in the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Fold in the diced apple.
5. Serve warm, topped with additional fruit or nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Asparagus
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe pairs the rich taste of grilled salmon with the tender crunch of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with the mixture.
4. Place the salmon on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, place the asparagus on the grill in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
6. Serve the grilled salmon with the roasted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Avocado and Tomato Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creamy richness of avocados with the juicy sweetness of tomatoes, perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, tomato, and red onion.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Low-Phosphorus Pancakes
For individuals with kidney disease or those on a phosphorus-restricted diet, these low-phosphorus pancakes provide a delicious and healthy breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour (low in phosphorus)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup sugar-free sweetener (such as stevia or erythritol)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup low-phosphorus milk (or almond milk)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar-free sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and low-phosphorus milk.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Transforming the humble butternut squash into a creamy and comforting soup is easier than you think! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of the squash with aromatic spices to create a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
– Fresh herbs, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
5. Add the roasted squash, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
6. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
7. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
8. Stir in heavy cream or coconut cream, if using.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful turkey breast infused with the aromas of fresh herbs, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan or baking dish. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the top of the turkey breast.
4. Roast the turkey breast for 45-50 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mixed Berry Chia Pudding
Get ready to enjoy a healthy and delicious dessert! This Mixed Berry Chia Pudding is a perfect combination of chia seeds, mixed berries, and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
2. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Just before serving, stir in the mixed berries and salt.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional berries if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Enjoy your Mixed Berry Chia Pudding!
Grilled Vegetable Kabobs
Transform your garden-fresh vegetables into a flavorful and colorful kabob masterpiece! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onions, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lentil and Carrot Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of lentils with the natural sweetness of carrots.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, carrots, vegetable broth, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and kidney-friendly recipes? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering dishes that are perfect for those with kidney issues. From savory options like Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, Quinoa and Black Bean Salad, and Roasted Vegetable Medley to sweet treats like Berry Smoothie with Almond Milk and Mixed Berry Chia Pudding, there’s something for everyone. These Davita-approved recipes cater to various dietary needs and restrictions, making them perfect for individuals with kidney disease or those looking to make healthy lifestyle changes.
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