kidney friendly eating

Pack a Picnic: Kidney-Friendly Recipes for Spring & Summer

For many of us, the warmer weather has officially arrived. Now that we’re in the heart of spring, and with summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy this beautiful world we live in. Spending time in the great outdoors supports both our physical and mental health. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, walking, or simply relaxing on a blanket with a good book and some fresh air, it’s a great opportunity to pack a picnic and head out for the day.

Bringing your own food on your adventure not only helps you save money, but it also saves time and energy by avoiding the hassle of reading labels and searching for kidney-friendly options. Pack up some of your favorites or try a few of the recipes below. Each one is low in sodium, kidney-friendly, and ideal for taking along as you spend time in nature.

1. White Bean Spinach Artichoke Dip.


This white bean spinach artichoke dip is one of our favorites! So flavorful, with herbs like thyme and rosemary, and a good protein source thanks to the white beans. It’s simple to make ahead of time and travels well. Serve with chopped vegetables, especially carrots and cucumber, as well as kidney-friendly crackers or pita bread.

2. Macaroni Tuna Salad.


Pasta salads are a classic picnic staple, and it’s easy to see why. This tuna salad is easy to make and delicious served cold, straight from the cooler. With tuna for protein and onion and roasted red peppers for added flavor, it’s a must-have on your picnic menu.

3. Chicken ’n’ Grape Salad Sandwich.

Another classic picnic item, this chicken and grape salad can be served on its own or in a roll. Make the salad ahead of time, chill it, then preserve freshness by assembling it in a roll or pita bread when you arrive at your picnic spot.

4. Cabbage Slaw.


We could eat this cabbage slaw every day! It’s the perfect side dish, adding a bit of crunch to your meal. Another item that’s simple to make ahead and delicious served chilled, it’s a must for your picnic menu.

5. No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Protein Bars.


Every picnic needs a bit of sweetness, and these protein bars tick all the boxes. A hearty, chewy peanut butter chocolate bar, they’re great to bring along on a hike for an energy boost. They’re so easy to make (no baking required!) and are sure to keep you going throughout your outdoor adventure.

Now that you have the food taken care of, it’s time to start planning! Look for nearby hikes or walking routes, or plan a simple afternoon at a local park. Getting out of your own home and into new surroundings is a surefire way to boost your mood, lift your energy, and make your picnic feel like a true escape.

What are your favorite picnic recipes? Will you be giving any of the above a try? Let us know on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!

Note: Be sure to consult your dietitian or healthcare provider for guidance on portion sizes and ingredient choices that fit your individual kidney dietary needs.

7 Kidney-Friendly Summer Recipes

Summer’s warm weather and abundance of fresh produce make it a wonderful time to explore flavorful, kidney‑friendly meals. Whether you’re preparing snacks, salads, mains, or sides, these recipes deliver on taste while being mindful of sodium, potassium and fluid balance. You’ll enjoy bright, seasonal ingredients and easy prep—ideal for meals enjoyed under the sun, at home or on the go.

1. Fruit Salad with Mint and Lime.

fruit salad with mint and lime
This refreshing fruit salad is a perfect way to cool down and stay hydrated during the summer. Fresh berries, grapes and melon are tossed with a splash of lime juice and fresh mint for a burst of flavor without added sugar or sodium. It’s a naturally sweet treat that fits into a kidney-friendly diet.

2. Chicken ’n’ Grape Salad Sandwich.


A delightful twist on classic chicken salad, this version includes juicy grapes for sweetness and crunch. Served in a whole‑grain wrap or on light bread, it’s a great grab‑and‑go meal that balances protein and hydration-friendly fruit.

3. Thai Shrimp Kebabs.

Thai shrimp kebabs
Flavorful and grill‑ready, these shrimp kebabs are seasoned with Thai‑inspired spices for a satisfying, protein-packed main. They’re quick to cook and pair beautifully with a side of fresh Asian-style slaw.

4. Asian Slaw.


A crisp, colorful medley of cabbage, carrots and a tangy dressing—this slaw makes for a fresh, kidney‑friendly side dish. It complements grilled proteins perfectly without relying on heavy sauces or sodium.

5. Santa Fe Black Bean Relish.


Packed with protein and fiber, this black bean relish combines beans, corn, bell peppers, and a light dressing. It’s a bold, colorful side that works well with grilled meats or on its own as a dip or salad topper.

6. Macaroni Tuna Salad.


This kidney-friendly version of a picnic classic uses low-sodium ingredients and a tangy dressing to deliver flavor without the excess salt. It’s creamy, comforting and a perfect addition to any summer spread.

7. Cucumber Lemon Water.


A clean, crisp infusion of cucumber and mint—zero sodium, zero potassium and all refreshing hydration. Great for keeping cool on warm days.

Eating well on a kidney‑friendly diet doesn’t mean missing out on summer’s delights. These seven recipes prove that you can have color, taste and nutritional balance—whether hosting a barbecue, planning a picnic or simply seeking a healthy meal. Try a recipe (or two!) this week and add some sunshine to your plate.

What are your favorite summer recipes? Will you be giving any of the above a try? Let us know on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!

Note: Be sure to consult your dietitian or healthcare provider for guidance on portion sizes and ingredient choices that fit your individual kidney dietary needs.

Our Top 7 Kidney-Friendly Fall Recipes

We love this time of year — the feel of that crisp autumn breeze, the trees changing colors, and the sound of leaves crackling beneath our feet. As the days shorten and we spend more time indoors, it’s the perfect time to try some new recipes. Casseroles, cobblers and roasted root vegetable dishes are some of our favorites this time of year. We have a whole host of kidney-friendly recipes we’ve compiled on our website — here are just a few of our top recipes for you to try this fall.

1. Baked Apple Chips

A delicious hors d’oeuvre, these baked apple chips are full of fall flavors and very simple to make. A healthy alternative to chips and sure to keep guests satisfied until further courses are ready. See the full recipe here.

2. Creamy Leek Soup

creamy leek soupThis soup definitely delivers—creamy and rich, it’s packed with flavor and incredibly filling. Perfect as a starter or as a main dish, it’ll warm you up on a cold, fall evening. Get the full recipe here.

3. Roasted Cauliflower, Carrots & Onions

creamy leek soupRoasting is one of our favorite ways to cook vegetables, as it brings out both flavor and texture. It’s also easy—just chop the veggies, spread them on a baking tray, season with a salt-free seasoning blend, and roast. Delicious and kidney-friendly! Find the full recipe here.

4. Low-Sodium Sourdough Bread

Store-bought bread can have an incredibly high amount of sodium in it. Don’t be tempted to buy it when it’s so simple to make your own! Give this low-sodium sourdough bread a try instead.

5. Holiday Herb Stuffing

No, it’s not Thanksgiving yet, but it’s never to early to start planning! So many store-bought stuffings are packed with salt but there’s really no need. This recipe for herb stuffing uses other spices and herbs to add flavor, giving it a much rounder taste than many alternatives. A must try!

6. Ginger & Green Apple Slow-Cooked Pork

pork and applesThis sweet and savory pork is delicious on a cold fall evening. It can be made in the oven or slow cooker, and is a great source of protein and vegetables. Find the full recipe here.

7. Apple Cranberry Cobbler


Is there anything better than a cobbler in autumn? We think not! This cobbler celebrates some classic autumn fruits, a warm and cozy dessert for the whole family to enjoy. See the full recipe to see how to make this tasty treat.

 

What are your favorite fall recipes? Are you going to try any of ours? We’d love to hear from you on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!

How to Make the Holidays Kidney-Friendly: Easy Tips for a Healthier Season

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and fun! However, for many people the holiday season can be stressful. Sometimes, people with kidney disease find it difficult to navigate food, social gatherings, and the expectations this season brings. To help, we compiled 3 easy tips to make the holidays more kidney friendly.

1. Limit your sodium or salt.

Most Americans eat too much sodium. Too much sodium is damaging to the kidneys.  Continue to be diligent in watching how much salt you eat, even during the holiday season. Cheese, stuffing, and gravy are commonly high in sodium. Make sure to enjoy these in moderation.

Tips:

  • Try a salt free seasoning blend.
  • Compare labels.
  • Look for “No Salt Added” or “Low Sodium” products.

2. Eat fruits and vegetables with every meal.

Fruits and vegetables provide us with nutrients that help our bodies function optimally. Filling up on a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables helps protect your kidneys, blood vessels, and heart. Make sure to find fruits and vegetables you enjoy, and if you haven’t found any yet, keep looking!

Tips:

  • Try different cooking methods (baking, steaming, roasting, sautéing).
  • Eat the rainbow of colors.
  • Balance high and low potassium fruits and vegetables.

3. Enjoy your meals!

When you choose your food, include dishes you enjoy. Remember, you can have anything you want, just not everything.  Just like one salad isn’t going to make you healthy, one cookie is not going to make you unhealthy.

Tips:

  • Practice mindfulness.
  • Include foods you like.
  • Balance your plate.

We hope these tips help you have a happy holiday season! If you want more holiday tips, join us for our free community class “Healthy Holiday Makeovers” on December 19th , 2024 at 2pm, sign up here. From all of us at PSKC, we wish you the very best holiday season!

 

Kidney-friendly recipes you must try this Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, a time to come together and celebrate what we are all thankful for. Although this is often a wonderful time with family and friends, it can also be difficult to navigate if you have kidney disease and are following a restricted diet. We’re here to help! Bringing a dish (or two or three!) to a Thanksgiving gathering will ensure you have something to eat that suits you, putting your mind at ease and making it much easier to enjoy spending time with the ones you love.

In light of that, we’ve compiled some of our favorite Thanksgiving dishes, complete with easy-to-follow recipes. Delicious and low in sodium, these are very tasty, kidney-friendly additions to your holiday menu. Bon appétit!

1. Baked Apple Chips

With just three ingredients, these Baked Apple Chips are one of the simplest, tastiest hors d’oeuvres imaginable. Such a healthy, delicious treat to nibble on while the main meal cooks.

 

2. Roasted Cauliflower, Carrots & Onions

Roasted veggies are an absolute must at Thanksgiving and this simple recipe for Roasted Cauliflower, Carrots and Onions does not disappoint. You won’t believe the flavor you get from seasoning with herbs and spices instead of salt—amazing!

 

3. Sourdough Bread

Bread can be packed with sodium but it doesn’t have to be for flavor—this Low-Sodium Sourdough Bread proves it doesn’t need much to taste delicious! Find a friend with a sourdough starter and get this on your Thanksgiving menu.

 

4. Holiday Herb Stuffing

No Thanksgiving is complete without stuffing and this recipe for Holiday Herb Stuffing is definitely one to try. Plenty of herbs for seasoning and fruit and vegetables for added flavor and crunch—it’s a sure-fire hit.

 

5. Mustard Dill Salmon and Green Beans

The turkey is, of course, the main event but let’s not forget our pescatarians out there. Salmon is such a Pacific Northwest staple, it deserves a place on the Thanksgiving table. Try this recipe for Mustard Dill Salmon and Green Beans—an unbeatable combo.

 

6. Apple Cranberry Cobbler

Yes, pies are a must for Thanksgiving, but this Apple Cranberry Cobbler is such a tasty, autumn delight, it’s worth adding to your menu. Nice and light, it’s ideal for those who aren’t after a heavy pie crust.

 

Double check with your doctor that these recipes are OK for you, then reach out to us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to let us know what you tried!

Five fall recipes for people with kidney disease

The weather has cooled, the days are shorter, and that familiar autumnal breeze has officially arrived. Fall is a wonderful time of year, perfect for getting outside in the fresh air to go for a walk and take in those beautiful fall colors. It’s also a great time to try your hand at some new recipes. Here are some of our favorite low-sodium, kidney-friendly recipes perfect for this time of year.

1. Southwest Grain Bowl

Healthy, packed with flavor, and easy to make, this Southwest Grain Bowl brings fresh ingredients together to create a tasty, low-sodium lunch or dinner option.

 

2. Roasted Cauliflower, Carrots & Onions

Oven roasting is one of our favorite ways to cook vegetables—it’s a great way to add flavor and texture. It’s also simple to do—simply chop veggies, place on the baking tray, season, and pop in the oven. Get the full recipe here.

 

3. Holiday Herb Stuffing

A wonderful option for Thanksgiving or anytime this fall, this recipe for herb stuffing is absolutely delicious. Flavored with herbs instead of salt, it’s kidney-friendly and very flavorful. A must try!

 

4. Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soupIs there anything better than homemade soup on a rainy, fall day? So many soups are packed with salt, and you just don’t need the salt to bring the flavor! This recipe for chicken noodle soup is low in sodium and very tasty, sure to warm you up on a cold autumn day.

 

5. Apple Cranberry Cobbler


If the smell of this cobbler doesn’t pull you in, tasting it sure will! See the full recipe to see how to make this delicious dessert, complete with a maple cream topping.

Time to get cooking! And once you’ve tried these, don’t stop there–we have many more low-sodium, kidney-friendly recipes for you to try.

Low-sodium, kidney-friendly Super Bowl snacks

The Super Bowl is almost here! Whether you’re attending a Super Bowl party, hosting one yourself, or planning to watch on your own, making sure you have low-sodium, kidney-friendly food on hand when you tune in is a must. We’ve all been to parties and events before where there is limited kidney-friendly food, and the only way to mediate that is to bring your own! Here are some of our favorite, low-sodium Super Bowl snacks for all to enjoy.

Thai Shrimp Kebabs

Thai shrimp kebabsShrimp and veggie kebabs – what could be better? These shrimp skewers are the perfect protein item, bringing just the right amount of spice.

Chili Lime Dip With Veggies

Chili Lime DipA dip is a great way to get those veggies in. This one’s a crowd pleaser, a zesty, ideal companion for carrots, celery, or other raw vegetables.

Chicken ‘n’ Grape Salad Sandwich

One thing’s for sure – the Super Bowl can be long! Having something substantial on the menu, like this delicious chicken sandwich, ensures you and your guests get some much-needed protein.

Fruit Salad with Honey, Mint and Lime

Just because it’s a Super Bowl, doesn’t mean every snack has to be savory. This fruit salad is sure to bring a sweet, fresh vibe to your party.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Protein Bars

Packed with protein, these peanut butter bars are so easy to make and will keep you going all game long!

What are your favorite low-sodium snacks? Let us know! Share your favorite snacks with us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

March is National Kidney Month!

One of our free, virtual ‘Survive and Thrive’ classes about chronic kidney disease. Sign up for ​classes at www.pskc.net/classes.

March is National Kidney Month, a time to raise awareness of kidney disease. Learn more about chronic kidney disease — commonly called CKD — and just how vital your kidneys are in making your body function.

What kidneys do

Kidneys filter blood and remove waste. They also control blood pressure, produce red blood cells, balance electrolytes, and help you maintain healthy bones and a normal pH level.

One fifth of the blood pumped by your heart goes to the kidneys, where it is processed and filtered. Excess water, salt, minerals and waste are sent to the bladder as urine and ‘clean’ blood is returned to circulation. It takes just five minutes for all of your blood to be filtered by the kidney which means in 24 hours, your kidneys will filter all of your blood 288 times!

Watch the video below to learn more about these incredible organs.

About chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease happens when your kidneys lose function over time. Although chronic kidney disease is irreversible, it can be slowed. If your kidney function drops to a certain level, dialysis or a kidney transplant is necessary.

The two main causes of chronic kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. Other causes of CKD include inherited diseases, inflammatory diseases and infections.

How to keep your kidneys healthy

1. Keep your salt intake to a minimum. Foods high in salt can put a strain on your kidneys. Try to keep your sodium intake to less than 2,000 milligrams per day. Avoid high-sodium restaurant meals and processed foods. Instead, make meals at home, with healthy ingredients.

2. Watch your blood pressure. Controlling your blood pressure is the single most important thing you can do to help prolong the life of your kidneys.

3. Stop smoking. Smoking substantially increases your risk for all kidney-related problems, including heart disease.

4. If you have diabetes, control your blood sugars. For more than 40 percent of people with kidney failure, diabetes is the cause. Work with your doctor to help control your blood sugar.

5. Exercise regularly. Exercise helps you maintain a healthy weight and controls your blood pressure. Walking, light weights, yoga, gardening — all of these are great ways to get exercise.

6. Avoid over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. If you have chronic kidney disease, avoid anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, Advil and Motrin. If you do not have chronic kidney disease, use these medications only as needed.

7. Have your kidneys checked on a regular basis. Kidney disease is often silent, showing no symptoms until you approach the need for dialysis or transplantation. Having your kidneys checked on a regular basis can help identify problems earlier.

Learn more ways to keep your kidneys healthy

Interested in learning more about kidney health? Consider taking one of our free classes! Our virtual classes include one-hour free webinars on kidney health eating, exercising and more. Visit www.pskc.net/classes to sign up for one of our upcoming sessions!

Fall into flavor! These kidney-friendly recipes are perfect this time of year

Fall has finally arrived in the Pacific Northwest and we couldn’t be more excited. With the crisp, clean air and changing color of leaves, it’s time to dust off those autumnal meals. Tired of all your old favorites? Don’t despair – we recently added some scrumptious new recipes to the recipe section of our website, delicious, low-sodium recipes that suit most kidney diets. These recipes were developed by Chef Duane Sunwold who has chronic kidney disease and understands firsthand the importance of creating tasty food that follows the kidney diet. As always, check with your doctor to make sure these recipes are OK for you and if they are, enjoy their bright, tasty flavors!

 

Ranch Dip

Most store-bought ranch dressings and dips are packed with salt. This recipe for ranch blend cuts the salt but not the flavor and is ideal for mixing with Greek yogurt, sour cream or mayonnaise to create ranch dip. Slice up some veggies and you’re good to go!

 

Roasted Cauliflower, Carrots & Onions

Roast these vegetables in the oven or on the barbecue – they’re delicious either way! Roasting vegetables adds flavor without adding salt and is a great way to add texture to meals. Pro tip: when preparing this dish, chop extra vegetables up and pop them in the freezer to make future meal prep even easier. Check out the full roasted cauliflower, carrots and onions recipe and give it a try sometime soon.

 

Creamy Lemon Salmon Pasta


This citrusy pasta dish is light and bright and, with a vegetable and protein mixed in, has everything you need for a complete meal. Plus, it’s simple to make – just nine ingredients, most of them likely in your pantry already. Check out the full creamy lemon salmon pasta recipe today and give it a try.

 

What recipes do you like best this time of year? We’d love to hear them — share your ideas with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

New nutrition videos from renowned chef showcase ways to cook tasty food for the kidney diet

Nutrition plays a key role in keeping kidneys healthy. A healthy lifestyle along with a diet low in sodium and full of fresh, unprocessed foods can help you maintain kidney function. However, if your kidneys do fail, you’ll need to make changes to your diet. When kidneys fail, they can no longer process wastes as well and when waste builds up, it can make you sick and damage your heart other parts of your body. The good news is, what you eat has a huge impact on the amount of waste that builds up in your body. By changing your diet, you can lower the amount of waste and slow your kidney disease down. Renowned Chef Duane Sunwold did just that and he’s on a mission to show others how to as well. Check out three of Chef Duane’s cooking videos below to get tips on cooking for the kidney diet.

Power Up With Plant Protein

Protein is an important part of the kidney diet. Did you know you can get protein from plants? Plant-based protein is very healthy and your kidneys love it! Watch to learn more about plant-based protein and get tips for cooking with it from Chef Duane.

Eating On A Budget

Eating healthy doesn’t have to break the bank. In this video, Chef Duane discusses food mapping, how to cook on a budget and ways to utilize food you typically find in your food pantry.

Flavor Boost Your Food

Low-sodium cooking does not equal low taste. By cutting the salt, you’ll keep your kidneys healthy. But how do you add flavor to your foods without adding salt? Chef Duane tells you how.

What recipes do you like best this time of year? We’d love to hear them — share your ideas with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.