FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New York, New York – July 2, 2025 — Barbecue season is here—but for the millions of Americans living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or on dialysis, navigating backyard menus can be tricky. That’s why The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) is serving up “Kidney-Friendly” recipes to help people eat well and enjoy summer gatherings without compromising their health.
“Traditional BBQ fare—like salty marinades, processed meats, and high-potassium sides—can pose serious risks for those managing kidney disease,” said Dr. Holly Kramer, Board member at The National Kidney Foundation. “We want to show that with a few smart swaps, kidney-friendly food can still be fun, flavorful, and perfect for the grill.”
What Makes a BBQ Kidney-Friendly?
- Low in sodium to reduce strain on the kidneys and control blood pressure
- Moderate in potassium and phosphorus, particularly for dialysis patients
- Protein-balanced, using fresh cuts over processed meats like hot dogs or sausages
Featured Recipes Include:
Grilled Herb Chicken Skewers with Zucchini & Bell Peppers
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into thick half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if bamboo, soak in water 30 mins)
Optional (Low-Potassium Marinade Boost):
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Lemon zest for brightness
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and optional parsley and onion powder.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Alternate threading marinated chicken, zucchini, and bell peppers onto skewers.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan.
- Cook skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Kidney Benefits: Chicken provides high-quality protein; and the skewers offer perfect portion sizes which is important for dialysis patients. In addition, chicken breast is lower in phosphorus than dark meat. Zucchini and bell peppers are relatively low-potassium vegetables. Plus, with no salt added, this recipe is low in sodium and full of herbs and lemon for flavor.
Pineapple & Cilantro Turkey Burgers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- ⅓ cup finely chopped fresh pineapple (drain well if canned in juice)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion (or green onion tops)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (no salt added)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (acts as a binder)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking or brushing grill)
- Optional: dash of lime juice or zest for extra flavor
Optional Kidney-Friendly Add-Ins:
- 1 tablespoon chopped red bell pepper (for crunch & color)
- Lettuce leaves for serving
- Low-sodium mustard or kidney-safe burger sauce
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground turkey, pineapple, cilantro, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and egg. Do not overmix — just until evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into 4 even patties. Flatten slightly so they cook evenly.
- Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium heat and lightly oil. Cook burgers for 5–6 minutes per side or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 5–6 minutes per side.
- Serve in a lettuce wrap or kidney-friendly bun (low-sodium, white or enriched) with extra cilantro, pineapple slices, or lime on the side.
Kidney Benefits: With no salt or breadcrumbs this recipe helps patients avoid sodium and phosphorus from processed fillers. The burgers provide patients with a protein-control meals and the lean turkey offers high-quality protein without excess phosphorus. Turkey, pineapple, and herbs are kidney-safe in portioned amounts. Plus, the pineapple adds moisture and natural sweetness to offset the lack of salt.
Coleslaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
For the Slaw:
- 3 cups green cabbage, thinly shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly shredded (optional for color)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated (about ½ cup)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red or green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional – check for low sodium)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder (no salt added)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, mustard, pepper, and garlic/onion powder until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, and parsley.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Stir before serving.
Kidney Benefits: The cabbage and carrots are low in potassium making them kidney-friendly vegetables. Plus, carrots add fiber which helps your digestion and lowers insulin resistance. No Mayo reduces saturated fat and phosphorus content and no dairy or high-phosphorus ingredients. In addition, it’s seasoned with vinegar, herbs, and spices instead.
Watermelon, Mint & Cucumber Salad
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, gently toss watermelon cubes, cucumber slices, and chopped mint.
- Dress Lightly:
- Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil. Add a light sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
- Chill & Serve:
- Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor. Serve cold.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (chilled)
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced (peeled if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional)
- Dash of black pepper (optional)
Kidney Benefits: Watermelon and cucumber are naturally lower in potassium than many fruits. Like many other fruits and vegetables, they add fiber which helps your digestion and lowers insulin resistance. No Added Salt or Dairy means it’s safe for sodium and phosphorus control. Watermelon is also very hydrating and great for fluid management and it’s naturally sweet so no added sugar is needed.
Kidney-Friendly BBQ Sauce
Ingredients:
(Makes ~1 cup):
- ¾ cup no-salt-added tomato sauce (look for one with ≤30mg sodium per ¼ cup)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon molasses (unsulfured – adds depth and color)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for smokiness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- Dash of liquid smoke (optional but gives a smoky BBQ flavor – kidney-safe in small amounts)
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together all ingredients until smooth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat. Stir frequently and let cook for 10–15 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Let it cool, then transfer to a jar. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Kidney Benefits:
This recipe uses vinegar, smoked paprika, and molasses for bold taste without salt making it a low in sodium and full of flavor. In addition, the controlled tomato portion and no high-potassium or phosphate additives make it a low potassium & phosphorus free sauce.
Celebrating 75 Years of Excellence
For 75 years, The National Kidney Foundation has been a leader in advancing kidney health, working to ensure that every person has access to high-quality, patient-centered care—from prevention and diagnosis to transplantation.
As we celebrate this milestone, NKF has launched its 75th Anniversary campaign - a bold initiative aimed at transforming kidney health and patient care by 2030. Our goal is to impact 75 million lives by raising funds to help fulfill the NKF mission, drive innovation, empower patients, and advocate for systemic change in kidney health. To make a difference in the fight against kidney disease, visit DONATE TODAY!
About the National Kidney Foundation
The National Kidney Foundation is revolutionizing the fight to save lives by eliminating preventable kidney disease, accelerating innovation for the dignity of the patient experience, and dismantling structural inequities in kidney care, dialysis, and transplantation. For more information about kidney disease, please visit www.kidney.org
Media Contact:
Jade Rivera-McFarlin
413-537-1155
Jade.riveramcfarlin@kidney.org
###