Are you looking for heart-healthy meal options that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 scrumptious and nutritious low sodium crock pot recipes that will satisfy your cravings while keeping your taste buds happy. With the busy lives we lead, it’s often difficult to find the time and energy to cook a healthy meal from scratch. That’s why slow cooking is such a game-changer – simply throw all your ingredients into a crock pot in the morning, and come home to a ready-to-eat meal that’s packed with flavor.
From classic comfort foods like chicken and rice soup to international-inspired dishes like Mediterranean fish stew, our low sodium crock pot recipes offer something for everyone. Plus, by using a slow cooker, you can significantly reduce your daily sodium intake without sacrificing any of the flavor or texture you love. So go ahead and get cooking – your taste buds (and your heart) will thank you!
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Vegetables
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
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
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small onion, peeled and sliced
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 on a large rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the turkey.
4. Arrange the bell peppers and onion slices around the turkey.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Low Sodium Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food option, packed with tender beef and a variety of root vegetables cooked to perfection in a flavorful broth. With only 250mg of sodium per serving, this recipe is ideal for those looking to reduce their salt intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef stew meat
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt-free seasoning blend (to taste)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, brown the beef in a little oil over medium-high heat. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped carrots, parsnips, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot and season with salt-free seasoning blend.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Crock Pot Vegetarian Chili
This Crock Pot recipe is a comforting blend of beans, vegetables, and spices that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the Crock Pot.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Garlic and Rosemary Pork Loin
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic pork loin recipe, featuring the perfect balance of savory garlic and herbaceous rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless pork loin
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the pork loin and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork loin rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Slow Cooker Ratatouille
A classic French vegetable stew originating from Provence, this slow cooker ratatouille is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced
– 2 cups of diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup of vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine onion, garlic, bell peppers, eggplants, and diced tomatoes.
2. Pour in vegetable broth and add olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Low Sodium Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this recipe combines the flavors of chicken, wild rice, and vegetables with a focus on reducing sodium levels.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt-free seasoning blend (to taste)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth until tender.
2. Add the wild rice, chicken, thyme, and salt-free seasoning blend to the pot.
3. Pour in the remaining chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Pot Roast
This classic pot roast gets a tangy twist with the addition of balsamic glaze, creating a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With only a few ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef pot roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the pot roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pot roast on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add beef broth and balsamic glaze to the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Return the pot roast to the pot and cover with a lid.
8. Transfer to the preheated oven and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Lentil and Spinach Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices and wholesome ingredients, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Serve over basmati rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine lentils, diced tomatoes, water, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low Sodium Black Bean and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty stew is a delicious and nutritious option for those looking to reduce their sodium intake. With the combination of black beans, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices, this recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt-free seasoning blend (such as Mrs. Dash)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the diced sweet potato, black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, and salt-free seasoning blend.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Season with additional salt-free seasoning blend if desired.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crock Pot Mushroom and Barley Risotto
This hearty and comforting recipe combines Arborio rice with sautéed mushrooms, savory broth, and nutty barley for a delicious and easy-to-make main dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 cup barley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Add rice, mushrooms, olive oil, broth, barley, garlic, and thyme to a 6-quart Crock Pot.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional chicken thighs, this recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until smooth.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Pour the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the top of each thigh.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low Sodium Vegetable and Tofu Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious option for those looking to reduce their sodium intake. With a mix of colorful vegetables and protein-rich tofu, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons low-sodium vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and broccoli; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Return tofu to skillet and stir in soy sauce, ginger, and seasoning blend.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crock Pot Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a nutritious and flavorful main dish with this easy Crock Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in the Crock Pot.
2. In a medium bowl, combine quinoa, water or broth, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, topped with your choice of cheese, sour cream, or diced tomatoes.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Fish Stew
This hearty stew combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Place the fish, onion, garlic, tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, wine (if using), and olive oil in a slow cooker.
2. Add the oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 2-6 hours
Low Sodium Turkey and White Bean Chili
This comforting chili recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, texture, and nutrition. With lean turkey and fiber-rich white beans, this dish is not only delicious but also low in sodium.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the white beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt-free seasoning blend (if using).
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this creamy and comforting Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or a chilly fall day. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously smooth soup in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness
Instructions:
1. Add the squash, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and cumin to a Crock Pot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of heavy cream or half-and-half if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Casserole
Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Casserole: A hearty and comforting twist on traditional cabbage rolls, this recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. In a slow cooker, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, shredded cabbage, cooked white rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low Sodium Chicken Fajita Bowls
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this delicious and healthy twist on traditional fajitas, featuring tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup low sodium olive oil
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– Salt-free seasoning blend (or regular salt to taste)
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In the same skillet, cook onions and bell peppers until tender, about 5 minutes. Add jalapeño and cook for an additional minute.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble fajita bowls with chicken, vegetables, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Crock Pot Apple Cinnamon Steel-Cut Oatmeal
Warm up with a deliciously comforting bowl of Crock Pot Apple Cinnamon Steel-Cut Oatmeal! This recipe is perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup steel-cut oats
– 2 cups water or milk
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Add the steel-cut oats, water or milk, cinnamon, and salt to the Crock Pot. Stir until combined.
2. Top with chopped apple, butter, and brown sugar.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir the oatmeal to ensure the apples are fully incorporated.
5. Serve warm, topped with additional cinnamon if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Apple Cinnamon Steel-Cut Oatmeal!
Summary
Discover delicious and heart-healthy recipes perfect for slow cooking! This collection of 20 low-sodium crock pot recipes offers a variety of mouth-watering dishes that are easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. From classic comfort foods like beef stew and chicken and wild rice soup, to international flavors like lentil curry and Mediterranean fish stew, there’s something for everyone. Plus, these recipes are all low in sodium, making them perfect for those looking to reduce their salt intake. Get cooking and enjoy a healthier, happier you!
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