Low-Cholesterol Recipes That Are Ridiculously Delicious (2024)

The Importance of Low-Cholesterol Recipes

First things first: Your body needs cholesterol to function. But it becomes a problem when it builds up in your artery walls, putting you at risk for heart disease and stroke—and you're not the only one. About one in three American adults have high cholesterol, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

So, we talked to Carol Meerschaert, R.D.N., a registered dietitian nutritionist in Paoli, Pennsylvania to get advice on what to look for in low-cholesterol recipes.

1. Eat high-fiber foods such as oats, seeds, nuts, whole grains, and beans.
2. Limit animal products because of the saturated fat.
3. Make plants the focus, followed by whole grains, then protein.
4. Cut back instead of cutting out. "You can have a burger or steak but keep it small and serve with lots of fresh veggies and fruit," says Meerschaert. (

Baked Banana Bread Oatmeal

Oats are one of the best ingredients for low-cholesterol recipes. Meerschaert suggests replacing the egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed stirred into 3 tablespoons of water in this low-cholesterol baked banana bread oatmeal.

Sweet Potato Falafel Sandwich

Adding an extra meatless meal or two to your daily menu is a great way to cut back on cholesterol (and reduce your impact on the environment). But following low-cholesterol recipes doesn't mean you have to sacrifice flavor—and this especially true for these sweet potato falafel sandwiches.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Quinoa Bowl

With fiber and plant-based protein, beans are rock stars when it comes to low-cholesterol recipes. In this heart-healthy quinoa bowl, black beans crank up the satisfaction factor.

Three-Bean Vegetarian Chili

This vegetarian chili is the perfect example of smart and savory low-cholesterol recipes. Lots of vegetables, beans, and no meat is a winning combination when it comes to reducing cholesterol. (

Mediterranean Farro Salad

When it comes to low-cholesterol recipes, this Mediterranean farro salad is a heart-healthy. Meerschaert cautions to watch how much feta you add—or switch it out for tofu.

Slow Cooker Barley and Chickpea Risotto

Eating whole grains instead of processed white grains is an easy diet swap, according to Meerschaert. Chock-full of fiber and protein, this barley and chickpea risotto is sure to be one a go-to when making low-cholesterol recipes.

Orange Ginger Tofu Bowl

Soy protein, like that found in tofu, lowers cholesterol, says Meerschaert. Try it with an orange-ginger marinade for a takeout fakeout meal. (

White Bean Mash with Vegetables and Pesto

Move over mashed potatoes. This white bean mash topped with pesto is a far healthier spin on comfort food.

Salmon with Avocado Salsa

Omega-3 fats, like those found in salmon, raise HDL (good cholesterol) levels, says Meerschaert. This low-cholesterol recipe also includes avocado salsa—loaded with even more good fat—to top the fish.

One-Pot Zucchini Noodle Miso Soup

One of Meerschaert's top tips for low-cholesterol recipes? "Make plants the center of your plate." This miso soup, made with zoodles instead of regular pasta, does just that.

Egg Muffins with Sausage, Spinach, and Cheese

For low-cholesterol recipes that are reminiscent (but healthier!) that fast-food, look not further than these breakfast muffins. Pro tip: "use turkey sausage instead of pork, and egg whites instead of whole eggs to cut cholesterol and saturated fat," says Meerschaert. (Psh, who needs the "muffin man"? Be your own baking boss by whipping up these healthy muffin recipes.)

Simple Vegan Meatballs

You may think it's the beef and sausage that make meatballs taste so great—that is until you try this low-cholesterol recipe. The tempeh-based vegan meatballs are heart-healthy and so full of garlicky goodness you might forget all about their meaty competition.

Steel-Cut Oatmeal

Steel-cut oats are another whole grain to work into your diet to lower cholesterol. Start with this low-cholesterol recipe for basic oats as the base; choose mix-ins to make it your own! (

Spiced Eggplant, Chicken, and Chickpea Salad

When it comes to low-cholesterol recipes, bulgur, a fiber-rich whole grain, makes a stellar substitute for pasta or white rice. To round out this recipe, mix with chicken, eggplant, and chickpeas.

Sofritas Veggie Bowls

Instead of ordering a Chipotle burrito bowl (again), low-cholesterol recipes like this spicy creation will do the trick. Tastes just like your go-to order, you won't believe it's DIY.