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Summer is the perfect time to make use of your Instant Pot and enjoy quick, flavorful meals without the hassle of long cooking times or heating up the kitchen.
Whether you’re preparing a light lunch, a savory dinner, or a refreshing dessert, these 21+ Summer Instant Pot Recipes are packed with vibrant, seasonal ingredients and bold flavors.
From tangy BBQ chicken to creamy risottos, there’s something for every craving in this collection.
Embrace the ease of cooking with the Instant Pot while keeping your meals fresh, healthy, and perfect for those warm summer days.
21+ Delicious Summer Instant Pot Recipes You Need to Try
As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, these 21+ Summer Instant Pot Recipes offer the perfect solution to easy, delicious meals without the stress of complicated cooking methods.
Whether you’re hosting a summer party, preparing meals for the family, or just looking to add variety to your weeknight dinners, these recipes will save you time and energy.
Embrace the freshness of summer with quick, flavorful dishes that let you enjoy the season to the fullest.
Spicy Mango Chicken
This Spicy Mango Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with tender chicken infused with the bright, tropical flavor of ripe mangoes. The Instant Pot locks in the flavors, creating a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth dish with a zesty kick from chili flakes and lime. The sauce is rich, slightly tangy, and subtly spicy, making it an ideal complement to a light summer salad or a quick weeknight dinner. With its vibrant orange hue and aromatic sweetness, this dish brings a burst of sunshine to your table.
Garlic Herb Shrimp
Garlic Herb Shrimp is an aromatic and buttery delight, with each shrimp perfectly cooked to a tender texture and seasoned with fragrant garlic and a medley of fresh herbs. The Instant Pot allows the shrimp to soak in all the savory goodness, creating a dish that is full of depth and freshness. The dish is a great side for grilled vegetables or a simple pasta, offering a delightful contrast in flavors. The aroma of garlic mingles with the freshness of herbs, promising a satisfying taste with every bite.
Lemon Basil Risotto
Lemon Basil Risotto is a creamy, dreamy dish that is both refreshing and indulgent. The lemony tang dances on your taste buds, while the fresh basil adds a burst of earthy aroma to each spoonful. The Instant Pot makes this traditionally labor-intensive dish quick and easy, delivering a velvety texture that pairs wonderfully with seafood or grilled meats. With its bright, citrusy notes and comforting creaminess, this risotto is perfect for both casual family dinners or as an elegant side to elevate any meal.
Zesty BBQ Ribs
Zesty BBQ Ribs cooked in the Instant Pot are juicy, tender, and packed with smoky-sweet flavor, with each bite of meat falling effortlessly off the bone. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce and aromatic spices infuses the ribs, giving them an irresistible depth of flavor. Whether served with crispy fries or alongside a fresh coleslaw, these ribs make a delicious centerpiece for any summer meal. The mouthwatering aroma of barbecue sauce caramelizing in the Instant Pot fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist.
Coconut Curry Vegetables
Coconut Curry Vegetables offer a fragrant and comforting combination of creamy coconut milk and vibrant spices that fill the air with an irresistible aroma. The vegetables soak up the rich curry sauce, creating a balance of savory, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors. This Instant Pot dish is not only vegan and gluten-free but also quick and easy, making it a perfect option for a light yet satisfying meal. The smooth texture of the sauce and the tender vegetables provide a comforting, flavorful experience with every bite.
Sweet and Savory Pork Tacos
Sweet and Savory Pork Tacos are a quick and flavorful treat, with tender, shredded pork soaked in a blend of aromatic spices and sweet orange juice. The Instant Pot locks in all the juiciness, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs perfectly with crunchy taco shells or soft tortillas. The citrusy sweetness of the pork contrasts wonderfully with tangy toppings like pickled onions or fresh cilantro, offering a versatile meal option for any occasion. The subtle, savory aroma will leave you craving more after every bite.
Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki Chicken is a savory-sweet dish that’s perfect for summer, offering a balance of tender, juicy chicken and a sticky, flavorful teriyaki sauce. The Instant Pot brings out the rich umami flavors, infusing the chicken with a slightly tangy, sweet, and savory taste. Its versatility makes it an excellent main course, pairing well with rice or fresh veggies. The rich aroma of soy sauce and ginger fills the kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious meal that’s both quick and satisfying.
Honey Garlic Salmon
Honey Garlic Salmon is a tender, flaky fish dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the punch of garlic, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. The Instant Pot cooks the salmon to perfection, locking in moisture and enhancing the savory-sweet glaze. This dish can stand on its own as a light, healthy meal or be served alongside roasted vegetables for a wholesome dinner. The combination of garlic and honey creates an irresistible aroma that will have your mouth watering before you even take a bite.
Mediterranean Quinoa
Mediterranean Quinoa is a vibrant, wholesome dish filled with fresh, tangy flavors from olives, feta, and a blend of Mediterranean herbs. The Instant Pot makes cooking quinoa effortless, resulting in a fluffy, tender base that absorbs all the zesty dressing. This dish is perfect as a light lunch, a side to grilled meats, or even as a meal prep option. The aroma of lemon and herbs, combined with the salty feta, creates a fresh, mouthwatering scent that will transport you to the Mediterranean coast.
BBQ Chicken
BBQ Chicken cooked in the Instant Pot is tender, juicy, and bursting with smoky, tangy flavors. The chicken soaks up the bold barbecue sauce, creating a rich, savory coating that makes every bite a delightful experience. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or piled onto buns for a satisfying sandwich, making it a versatile option for summer gatherings. The sweet and smoky scent of barbecue fills the air, making it hard to resist digging in right away.
Chili Lime Chicken
Chili Lime Chicken is a zesty, flavorful dish with the perfect balance of spicy heat and tangy lime. The Instant Pot locks in the juiciness of the chicken while infusing it with the bold, refreshing flavors of chili powder, lime, and garlic. This dish is ideal for summer tacos, a topping for salads, or as a stand-alone protein for a light meal. The tangy citrus aroma mixed with the warmth of chili makes it an irresistible dish that tantalizes your senses from the first whiff.
Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic comfort food with a rich, savory sauce filled with ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. The sauce simmers together to create a hearty, flavorful base that perfectly coats each strand of pasta. This dish is ideal for a satisfying family dinner or meal prep. The comforting scent of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and basil fills the kitchen, promising a warm and hearty meal with each savory bite.
Beef Stew
Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish, where tender chunks of beef melt in a rich broth filled with carrots, potatoes, and aromatic herbs. The Instant Pot allows the flavors to meld together quickly, creating a savory, thick sauce that coats every bite. This dish is perfect for cool summer evenings when you crave something satisfying but still light enough to enjoy. The earthy aroma of slow-simmering beef and vegetables fills your kitchen, offering a bowl of warmth and comfort.
Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp Scampi is a simple yet elegant dish, combining juicy shrimp with garlic, lemon, and a buttery sauce. The Instant Pot allows for a quick, easy preparation that results in perfectly cooked shrimp, making it ideal for a light but flavorful meal. Whether served over pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce, it’s a versatile dish. The tantalizing scent of garlic and butter wafts through the kitchen, creating a delightful atmosphere that leads to an unforgettable meal.
Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, rich pasta dish featuring tender chicken and fettuccine smothered in a velvety, parmesan cheese sauce. The Instant Pot brings all the ingredients together in minutes, producing a luscious, comforting meal. This dish is perfect for both casual family dinners or a more refined dinner party. The indulgent aroma of garlic and cheese fills the room, promising a satisfying and creamy experience with every bite.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Vegetable Stir-Fry is a vibrant, healthy dish filled with colorful, crisp vegetables and a savory sauce that brings everything together in perfect harmony. The Instant Pot cooks the vegetables just right, preserving their natural crunch while infusing them with bold, umami flavors. It’s a perfect side or stand-alone meal for a light, plant-based option. The fresh scent of sautéed vegetables and soy sauce fills the air, making it a mouthwatering choice for anyone seeking something quick and nutritious.
Pork Carnitas
Pork Carnitas is a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth dish made from slow-cooked pork shoulder infused with spices, garlic, and citrus. The Instant Pot does the work of tenderizing the pork in a fraction of the time, making it a go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. The carnitas can be enjoyed in tacos, burritos, or as a main dish with rice and beans. The savory aroma of cooking pork mixed with the bright zing of lime makes this dish irresistibly tasty and aromatic.
Italian Chicken
Italian Chicken is a juicy, flavorful dish seasoned with Italian herbs and cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. The chicken absorbs the aromatic blend of garlic, oregano, and basil, creating a savory, slightly tangy taste that’s perfect for any meal. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light pasta for a complete dish. The herby fragrance of oregano and garlic fills the kitchen, drawing you in with every breath, making it hard to resist its delicious flavor.
Beef Stew
Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish where tender chunks of beef are simmered in a rich, savory broth filled with vegetables and aromatic herbs. The Instant Pot ensures the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the flavors blend beautifully for a warming, satisfying meal. Whether served with crusty bread or mashed potatoes, this stew is perfect for any cozy dinner. The robust scent of simmering meat, garlic, and thyme fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist taking the first bite.
Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, indulgent dish with tender chicken cooked to perfection and coated in a velvety, Parmesan-infused sauce. The Instant Pot brings all the flavors together quickly, creating a luscious, smooth texture that’s perfect over pasta. This dish is great for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. The creamy aroma of garlic and butter, paired with the rich scent of Parmesan, will have you eager to dig in and savor every bite.
Vegetable Soup
Vegetable Soup is a light yet hearty dish packed with fresh, seasonal vegetables simmered in a flavorful, aromatic broth. The Instant Pot locks in the flavors, creating a well-balanced soup that’s both nutritious and comforting. Perfect as a standalone meal or a side dish, this soup is versatile and satisfying. The earthy aroma of simmering vegetables, herbs, and spices fills your kitchen, inviting you to enjoy a bowl of wholesome goodness.
Conclusion
The Instant Pot is a game-changer for summer cooking, and these 21+ Summer Instant Pot Recipes are proof of just how versatile and convenient this kitchen tool can be.
From vibrant vegetable dishes to succulent meats and refreshing desserts, there’s no limit to the delicious meals you can create.
By utilizing seasonal ingredients and effortless cooking techniques, you’ll enjoy your summer with minimal time spent in the kitchen, leaving more time to relax and soak in the sunshine.
