Kidney-Friendly Holiday Recipe Ideas

Delicious, thoughtful recipes for everyone on their kidney journey

The holiday season is a time for connection, gratitude, and really good food. If you’re living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or on dialysis (ESRD), planning a celebratory meal can feel like navigating a minefield of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. But the good news? You can enjoy the feast — with a little planning, smart swaps, and great recipes.

We’ve gathered a festive menu from trusted kidney-friendly resources, along with practical tips to help you relax, share, and savor every bite with confidence.

Why This Menu Works

  • It’s kidney-conscious but flavor-rich — using low-sodium broths, herbs, and portion control.

  • It’s inclusive of early CKD through ESRD.

  • It offers variety: not just turkey and mashed potatoes!

  • It’s easy perfect for family planning.

Sliced roasted turkey breast garnished with herbs on a wooden cutting board.

Holiday Menu Ideas

Because every plate should be filled with flavor, comfort, and gratitude.

Click on photos for link to each recipe!

A plate of mashed potatoes topped with roasted cauliflower, a sprig of parsley, and herbs, on a dark table with a fork and knife beside it.
Close-up of a bowl of homemade stuffing with celery, sage leaves, and bread cubes.
Green beans garnished with sliced almonds and lemon wedges on a white plate
A homemade apple galette with sliced apples arranged in a circular pattern, garnished with almond slices, on parchment paper. Two apples are positioned beside the galette, and a silver knife with a wooden handle is placed on the right side.
A wooden bowl filled with creamy cucumber and sour cream dip garnished with fresh dill and chopped herbs, with cucumber slices and lime halves in the background.
A seasoned, cooked roast pork with herbs and spices on a grill.
Braised Beef Brisket
Traditional Mince Pies
Glazed Carrots
Cranberry Mint Mocktail (Photo credit: Evan Wise on Unsplash)
Lemon Meringue Pie
Cranberry Brown Sugar Roast Pork
Sweet Cornbread Muffins With Citrus Honey Butter
Honey Spiced-Rubbed Salmon
Swedish Meatballs
Chocolate Zucchini Brownies
Hot Mulled Punch
Pomegranate Brûlée

Kidney-Smart Holiday Meal Tips

  • Rinse canned foods to cut sodium by up to 40%.

  • Season with herbs, citrus, garlic, and onion instead of salt.

  • Double-boil potatoes to lower potassium.

  • Stay hydrated (as directed) and walk after meals to support digestion.


You deserve a seat at the table—full of joy, flavor, and good company. Celebrate the holidays knowing that kidney-friendly meals can be absolutely delicious.

Happy Holidays
from ReMend !