21 Healthy Instant Pot Recipes (2024)

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare healthy meals can be a challenge. Fortunately, the Instant Pot has revolutionized cooking, offering convenience, speed, and versatility. With its ability to pressure cook, steam, sauté, and more, the Instant Pot makes it easy to whip up delicious and nutritious meals in no time.

In this post, we’ll explore 21 healthy Instant Pot recipes that are perfect for busy individuals looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

1. Quinoa and Vegetable Pilaf – By Elavegan

Start your healthy Instant Pot journey with a quinoa and vegetable pilaf. Quinoa is a complete protein and combined with colorful veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and peas, it creates a nutritious and satisfying dish. Simply sauté the vegetables, add quinoa, broth, and spices, then pressure cook for a wholesome meal.

2. Chicken and Vegetable Soup – By The Cozy Cook

Warm up with a comforting bowl of chicken and vegetable soup made in the Instant Pot. Loaded with lean protein from chicken breast and an array of veggies such as celery, carrots, and spinach, this soup is nourishing and flavorful. Add herbs and spices for extra depth of flavor and enjoy a hearty meal in minutes.

3. Lentil Curry – By BBC Good Food

Embrace the flavors of India with a hearty lentil curry cooked in the Instant Pot. Lentils are rich in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious base for this aromatic dish. Add spices like turmeric, cumin, and garam masala for a burst of flavor, and serve with rice or naan for a complete and satisfying meal.

4. Salmon with Herbed Quinoa – By Simply Quinoa

For a protein-packed meal that’s ready in a flash, try cooking salmon with herbed quinoa in the Instant Pot. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, while quinoa provides fiber and essential amino acids. Season the salmon with herbs and lemon, then cook with quinoa for a healthy and delicious dinner option.

5. Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili – By Eating Well

Warm and hearty, black bean and sweet potato chili is a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days. Black beans are a great source of plant-based protein, while sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and fiber. Combine with tomatoes, onions, and spices in the Instant Pot for a flavorful and nutritious chili.

6. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry – By Dinner at the Zoo

Skip the takeout and make a healthier version of beef and broccoli stir-fry in the Instant Pot. Tender beef strips, crisp broccoli florets, and a savory sauce come together in minutes for a satisfying meal. Serve over brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.

7. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – By Delish

For a refreshing and nutrient-dense meal, try making a Mediterranean chickpea salad in the Instant Pot. Chickpeas are a good source of protein and fiber, while colorful veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, and bell peppers provide vitamins and antioxidants. Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a light and flavorful salad.

8. Spaghetti Squash Primavera – By All Recipes

Swap traditional pasta for spaghetti squash in this healthy twist on spaghetti primavera. Spaghetti squash is low in calories and carbs but high in fiber and nutrients, making it a great alternative for those watching their waistline. Cook the squash in the Instant Pot, then toss with sautéed veggies and marinara sauce for a satisfying and guilt-free meal.

9. Turkey and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers – By All Recipes

For a wholesome and filling meal, try making turkey and vegetable stuffed peppers in the Instant Pot. Lean ground turkey is combined with quinoa, veggies, and spices, then stuffed into bell peppers and pressure cooked until tender. Top with cheese and fresh herbs for a nutritious and delicious dinner option.

10. Moroccan Chickpea Tagine – By Taste

Transport your taste buds to Morocco with a fragrant and flavorful chickpea tagine cooked in the Instant Pot. Chickpeas are simmered with tomatoes, onions, spices, and dried fruits like apricots and raisins for a sweet and savory dish. Serve with couscous or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

11. Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice – By Food.com

For a simple yet satisfying meal, try making lemon garlic chicken and rice in the Instant Pot. Chicken thighs are seasoned with lemon, garlic, and herbs, then cooked with rice and broth until tender. The result is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

12. Butternut Squash and Kale Risotto – By Making Thyme for Health

Indulge in a creamy and comforting butternut squash and kale risotto made in the Instant Pot. Arborio rice is cooked with butternut squash, kale, onions, and broth until creamy and tender. Top with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a luxurious and nutritious meal.

13. Thai Peanut Chicken – By The Daring Gourmet

For a taste of Thailand, try making Thai peanut chicken in the Instant Pot. Tender chicken thighs are simmered in a creamy peanut sauce with coconut milk, ginger, garlic, and spices for a rich and flavorful dish. Serve with rice or noodles and garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro for an authentic and satisfying meal.

14. Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry – By Cupful of Kale

For a plant-based meal that’s full of flavor, try making cauliflower and chickpea curry in the Instant Pot. Cauliflower and chickpeas are simmered in a fragrant coconut curry sauce with onions, tomatoes, and spices for a hearty and nutritious dish. Serve with rice or naan for a complete and satisfying meal.

15. Lemon Herb Shrimp and Orzo – By Recette Magazine

For a light and refreshing meal, try making lemon herb shrimp and orzo in the Instant Pot. Succulent shrimp are cooked with orzo, lemon zest, garlic, and fresh herbs for a vibrant and flavorful dish. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a healthy and satisfying meal.

16. Ratatouille – By Wholesome Yum

For a taste of France, try making ratatouille in the Instant Pot. This classic Provençal dish features a medley of seasonal vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, simmered in a rich tomato sauce with herbs and spices. Serve with crusty bread or couscous for a delicious and nutritious meal.

17. Chicken Tortilla Soup – By Natasha`s Kitchen

Warm up with a bowl of chicken tortilla soup made in the Instant Pot. Tender chicken breast is simmered with tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, corn, and beans in a flavorful broth with spices and herbs. Top with crunchy tortilla strips, avocado, and cilantro for a hearty and satisfying meal.

18. Honey Garlic Sesame Tofu – By Walder Wellness

For a vegetarian twist on takeout, try making honey garlic sesame tofu in the Instant Pot. Cubes of tofu are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil, then pressure cooked until tender. Serve with steamed vegetables and rice for a healthy and delicious meal.

19. Greek Chicken Gyros – By Recipe Tin Eats

Transport yourself to the Mediterranean with Greek chicken gyros made in the Instant Pot. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs, then pressure cooked until juicy and flavorful. Serve in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

20. Vegetable Lo Mein – By Well Plated by Erin

For a quick and easy weeknight dinner, try making vegetable lo mein in the Instant Pot. Cooked spaghetti noodles are tossed with a colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas, then coated in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for a delicious and satisfying meal.

21. Cauliflower Fried Rice – By Once Upon a Chef

For a healthier take on takeout, try making cauliflower fried rice in the Instant Pot. Cauliflower rice is stir-fried with a mix of vegetables such as carrots, peas, onions, and bell peppers, then seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a flavorful and satisfying dish. Top with scrambled eggs, tofu, or shrimp for added protein and enjoy a guilt-free meal that’s ready in minutes.

Conclusion

With these 21 healthy Instant Pot recipes, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. From soups and stews to curries and stir-fries, the Instant Pot offers endless possibilities for quick and easy cooking. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply looking to eat healthier, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. So fire up your Instant Pot and get ready to enjoy wholesome meals that are as convenient as they are delicious!