Are you looking for a way to make heart-healthy meals without sacrificing flavor? Look no further! In this article, we will be exploring 20 delicious and nutritious low sodium crock pot recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From comforting chicken and vegetable dishes to hearty lentil soups and flavorful fish recipes, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a stay-at-home parent, having a healthy meal ready to go can be a major stress-reliever. And with a crock pot, you don’t have to worry about constant stirring or monitoring – just toss everything in and let it cook all day while you’re out and about. Plus, many of these recipes are made with minimal sodium, making them perfect for those who need to watch their blood pressure.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 20 favorite low sodium crock pot recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for every taste and dietary need. So grab your slow cooker and let’s get started!
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken and Vegetables
This hearty slow cooker recipe combines the flavors of garlic, herbs, and chicken with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, garlic, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, chicken broth, and white wine (if using).
2. Add the sliced onion, bell peppers, and potatoes on top of the chicken mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Turkey and White Bean Chili
This comforting recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter day. With the combination of tender turkey, creamy white beans, and rich flavors, this chili will become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (16 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the turkey, white beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin to a Crock Pot.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low Sodium Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
This comforting stew is perfect for a chilly evening, packed with tender beef, root vegetables, and a rich broth that’s surprisingly low in sodium. This recipe is a great option for those looking to reduce their sodium intake without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef (such as sirloin or round), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) low-sodium diced tomatoes
– 4 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt-free seasoning blend (to taste)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the beef over medium-high heat, then set aside.
3. Add vegetables and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in canned tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, and salt-free seasoning blend.
5. Return beef to the pot and simmer for 1 hour, or until meat is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (including browning time)
Herbed Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the subtle sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of lentils, and the freshness of herbs. A delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add lentils, broth, tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
Brighten up your dinner routine with this flavorful and easy-to-make salmon recipe, perfectly paired with tender asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb fresh asparagus spears
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to Low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the slow cooker, skin side down (if they have skin).
4. Pour the lemon-garlic mixture over the salmon, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Add the asparagus spears to the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
6. Cook on Low for 3-4 hours or High for 1.5-2 hours.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (Low) or 1.5-2 hours (High)
Vegetable and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck party, this Vegetable and Chickpea Curry is a great way to get your daily dose of fiber and protein. With a blend of aromatic spices and tender vegetables, it’s a dish that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, red bell pepper, and carrot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Low Sodium Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Savor the hearty flavor of this low-sodium chicken and wild rice soup, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a comforting lunch. This recipe is not only delicious but also mindful of sodium intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound 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
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt-free seasoning blend (such as herbs de Provence)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the low-sodium chicken broth, wild rice, thyme, and salt-free seasoning blend. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Crock Pot Quinoa and Black Bean Stew
This flavorful stew is a perfect blend of plant-based protein, fiber, and wholesome goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added spice
Instructions:
1. Add quinoa, water/broth, black beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, and paprika to the Crock Pot.
2. Stir to combine, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.
4. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, scallions, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Ratatouille with Fresh Herbs
A flavorful and aromatic slow cooker recipe that combines the rich flavors of French ratatouille with a burst of fresh herbs. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large eggplants, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs: parsley, basil, or thyme (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced eggplant, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Just before serving, stir in fresh chopped herbs if using.
5. Serve hot over rice, pasta, or as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili
Warm up with this hearty, comforting chili recipe that combines the flavors of turkey, sweet potatoes, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Low Sodium Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. This low-sodium version uses vegetables, beans, and lean chicken broth to create a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, low sodium
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add red bell pepper and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chicken broth, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Moroccan Spiced Chickpeas
Transform your chickpeas into a flavorful and aromatic dish with this simple slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these spiced chickpeas are packed with the warmth of Morocco.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chickpeas, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in chicken broth and honey. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetable and Barley Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of wholesome vegetables and nutritious barley, all simmered together in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the barley, broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 35-40 minutes or until the barley is cooked.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Low Sodium Chicken Fajita Soup
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional fajitas, transformed into a comforting soup perfect for a quick and easy meal. With only 350mg of sodium per serving, you can enjoy this delicious soup without compromising on your health goals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt-free seasoning blend. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crock Pot Butternut Squash and Apple Soup
This comforting soup combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash and apples with a hint of spice, perfect for a chilly fall or winter day. Let your slow cooker do the work and enjoy a warm and cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red apple, cored and chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the squash, onion, garlic, and apple to the Crock Pot.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cinnamon.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, if using.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Tilapia with Zucchini
A refreshing twist on traditional tilapia recipes, this slow cooker meal combines the brightness of lemon and pepper with the tender goodness of zucchini. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a stress-free lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Add the tilapia fillets and zucchini slices to the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low Sodium Black Bean and Corn Chili
This hearty chili recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional recipes, with a focus on reducing sodium levels while maintaining bold flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, low sodium
– 1 cup vegetable broth, low sodium
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook onion and garlic over medium-high heat until softened.
2. Add bell pepper and cook until tender.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and salt-free seasoning blend.
4. Add black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Simmer 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Mushroom and Brown Rice Pilaf
This savory pilaf combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the warmth of herbs and the comfort of brown rice, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Add rice and water/broth; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Fluff with a fork and garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty slow cooker recipe, featuring tender peppers filled with a savory blend of rice, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Cut tops off peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes, olives, parsley, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in slow cooker, leaving some space between them.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Serve warm, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Low Sodium Vegetable and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is a delicious and nutritious option for those watching their sodium intake. With a blend of flavorful vegetables and fiber-rich lentils, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Add chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and thyme to the pot.
3. Season with salt-free seasoning blend to taste.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Discover delicious and heart-healthy crock pot recipes with low sodium options! This collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes features flavorful dishes like Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken and Vegetables, Crock Pot Turkey and White Bean Chili, and Low Sodium Beef Stew with Root Vegetables. From savory soups to hearty stews and curries, these easy-to-make recipes are perfect for those looking to reduce their sodium intake while still enjoying a satisfying meal. Get ready to spice up your meals with these tasty and healthy crock pot recipes!
