If you’re looking to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for nutrition.

These 10 low-cholesterol dinner options will help you create satisfying meals while keeping your cardiovascular health in check.

From Mediterranean-inspired fish dishes to hearty vegetarian options, you’ll discover how simple ingredients can transform into delicious, wholesome dinners.

Let’s explore these nutritious recipes that’ll make you forget you’re eating healthy.

Mediterranean Grilled Fish With Lemon and Herbs

grilled fish with herbs

Ingredients:

  • 4 white fish fillets (cod, halibut, or sea bass)
  • 2 lemons (1 sliced, 1 for juice)
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 red onion, sliced

Step 1: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, half of the herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Step 2: Place fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).

Step 4: Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Place lemon slices and red onion on the grill.

Step 6: Grill fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork.

Step 7: Top with grilled lemon slices, onions, and remaining fresh herbs.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 380mg

Quinoa Buddha Bowl With Roasted Vegetables

roasted vegetable quinoa bowl

A vibrant and nutritious quinoa buddha bowl packed with protein, fiber, and heart-healthy ingredients. This colorful dish combines fluffy quinoa with a medley of roasted vegetables, creating a satisfying and cholesterol-conscious meal that’s perfect for dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 sweet potato, cubed
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Optional toppings: avocado, pumpkin seeds

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Rinse quinoa thoroughly. Combine with vegetable broth in a pot, bring to boil, reduce heat, and simmer covered for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Toss sweet potato, broccoli, bell pepper, and chickpeas with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Spread vegetables on baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Step 5: Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons water to make dressing.

Step 6: Assemble bowls by dividing quinoa, roasted vegetables, and chickpeas. Drizzle with tahini dressing and add optional toppings.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 385
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Iron: 3.5mg

Lean Turkey and Black Bean Chili

healthy turkey bean chili

Lean Turkey and Black Bean Chili is a heart-healthy comfort food that combines protein-rich ground turkey with fiber-packed black beans.

This satisfying dish is perfect for chilly evenings and can be made ahead for easy weeknight dinners, all while helping to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened (5-7 minutes).

Step 2: Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains (6-8 minutes).

Step 4: Stir in all spices (chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper).

Step 5: Add diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.

Step 6: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 285
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 390mg
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 11g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Iron: 4mg

Baked Chicken With Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts

roasted chicken and vegetables

Baked Chicken With Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts is a heart-healthy dinner option that combines lean protein with nutrient-rich vegetables.

This one-pan meal isn’t only low in cholesterol but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

Ingredients:

  • 4 skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 3: In a bowl, toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange on one-third of the baking sheet.

Step 4: Toss Brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Arrange on another third of the sheet.

Step 5: Place chicken breasts on the remaining space. Brush with remaining olive oil and season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Step 6: Squeeze half a lemon over the entire sheet.

Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley and remaining lemon wedges before serving.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 385
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 83mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Iron: 2.5mg
  • Vitamin A: 214% DV
  • Vitamin C: 124% DV

Vegetarian Lentil and Spinach Curry

vegetarian lentil spinach dish

This hearty vegetarian curry combines protein-rich lentils with fresh spinach in an aromatic blend of Indian spices.

Low in cholesterol and high in fiber, this dish offers a healthy and satisfying dinner option that can be served with brown rice or whole grain naan bread.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent (5-7 minutes).

Step 2: Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.

Step 4: Add diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 5: Add lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender.

Step 6: Stir in chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Iron: 6mg
  • Vitamin A: 4200IU
  • Vitamin C: 15mg

Herb-Crusted Salmon With Steamed Broccoli

salmon with broccoli recipe

This heart-healthy dinner combines omega-3 rich salmon with a fragrant herb crust, paired with nutrient-packed steamed broccoli.

The dish isn’t only cholesterol-friendly but also provides essential proteins and vitamins while remaining simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)

Step 2: Mix chopped herbs, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl

Step 3: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and brush with olive oil

Step 4: Press herb mixture onto the top of each salmon fillet

Step 5: Place salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes

Step 6: While salmon cooks, steam broccoli florets for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp

Step 7: Drizzle lemon juice over cooked salmon and serve with steamed broccoli

Nutrition Value (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 34g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 125mg
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: 1,800mg

Whole Grain Pasta Primavera

healthy vegetable pasta dish

This colorful and heart-healthy pasta dish combines whole grain pasta with fresh seasonal vegetables and a light sauce. Perfect for those watching their cholesterol, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious, serving 4 people in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz whole grain pasta
  • 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Cook whole grain pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

Step 3: Add carrots and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add broccoli and zucchini. Cook for another 3 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, and oregano.

Step 6: Add cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 7: Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Sodium: 125mg
  • Iron: 2.5mg

Asian-Style Tofu Stir-Fry

tofu stir fry with vegetables

Asian-Style Tofu Stir-Fry is a heart-healthy, protein-rich dish that combines crispy tofu with colorful vegetables in a savory sauce.

This cholesterol-free meal is perfect for those watching their cholesterol levels while still enjoying bold, Asian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 14 oz firm tofu, drained and cubed
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 carrots, julienned
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth

Step 1: Press tofu between paper towels for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and vegetable broth in a small bowl.

Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides (5-7 minutes).

Step 5: Remove tofu and set aside.

Step 6: Add sesame oil to the wok, then stir-fry garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.

Step 7: Add vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.

Step 8: Return tofu to the wok and pour in the sauce mixture.

Step 9: Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens.

Step 10: Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Iron: 3mg

Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers

grilled mushroom burger recipe

Grilled Portobello mushroom burgers are a heart-healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers.

These meaty mushrooms are marinated and grilled to perfection, creating a satisfying, low-cholesterol meal that’s packed with umami flavor and essential nutrients.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large Portobello mushroom caps
  • 4 whole grain burger buns
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 lettuce leaves
  • 2 tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 red onion, sliced

Step 1: Clean mushrooms with a damp paper towel and remove stems.

Step 2: Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Step 3: Place mushrooms in a large zip-lock bag and pour marinade over them. Marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).

Step 5: Place mushrooms on the grill, gill side up. Grill for 5-7 minutes.

Step 6: Flip mushrooms and grill for another 5-7 minutes until tender.

Step 7: Toast burger buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes.

Step 8: Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, and onion slices.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Iron: 2mg

Barley Risotto With Garden Vegetables

vegetarian barley risotto recipe

This healthy barley risotto is a delightful twist on traditional rice risotto, featuring pearl barley and fresh garden vegetables. The dish offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture while keeping cholesterol levels in check, making it perfect for a heart-healthy dinner option.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add garlic and mushrooms, cook for another 3 minutes.

Step 3: Add pearl barley and stir for 1 minute to toast slightly.

Step 4: Pour in white wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.

Step 5: Add vegetable broth 1 cup at a time, stirring frequently. Wait for each cup to be absorbed before adding the next.

Step 6: After 20 minutes, add zucchini.

Step 7: Continue cooking and stirring until barley is tender (about 15 more minutes).

Step 8: Stir in Parmesan cheese and thyme.

Step 9: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 310
  • Protein: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Iron: 2mg

Final Thoughts

You’ll find these heart-healthy dinner options not only delicious but scientifically sound.

Recent studies from the American Heart Association confirm that plant-based proteins and omega-3 rich foods can considerably lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Whether you’re craving the Mediterranean fish or exploring vegetarian options like the Portobello burger, these meals prove that eating for heart health doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Robert William

Chief Editor @My Kitchen Mates (or, in plain English, I'm the man responsible for ensuring that every guide post we publish is helpful for our readers.

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