Delicious and Healthy Favorite Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Guide or Summary： Instant Pot Chicken and Quinoa Burrito Bowls Instant Pot Beef Stew Instant Pot Lentil SoupWhen it comes to cooking, finding the time to pr……
Guide or Summary：
When it comes to cooking, finding the time to prepare a nutritious and delicious meal can be challenging, especially on busy weeknights. That's where the Instant Pot comes in handy. This versatile kitchen gadget can help you whip up a variety of dishes quickly and easily. In this article, we will explore some of the most favorite instant pot recipes that are both delicious and healthy. These recipes are perfect for those hectic evenings when you want to serve a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
1. Instant Pot Chicken and Quinoa Burrito Bowls
One of the most favorite instant pot recipes among health-conscious individuals is the Chicken and Quinoa Burrito Bowl. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a balanced meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
2. Add all the ingredients to the Instant Pot and stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
4. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
5. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
6. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and serve with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
2. Instant Pot Beef Stew
Another classic and favorite instant pot recipe is Beef Stew. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for cooler evenings and is loaded with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the beef and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
4. Return the beef to the pot and add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
6. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
7. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
8. Remove the bay leaves and serve the stew hot with crusty bread.
3. Instant Pot Lentil Soup
For a vegetarian option, the Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a fantastic choice. This soup is one of the most favorite instant pot recipes for its simplicity, flavor, and nutritional benefits. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this soup both filling and healthy.
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric
1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a splash of olive oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the carrots, celery, lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, turmeric, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
5. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
6. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
7. Stir the soup and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
These favorite instant pot recipes are sure to become staples in your weekly meal rotation. They offer a great balance of taste, nutrition, and convenience, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty stew, a protein-packed burrito bowl, or a comforting bowl of lentil soup, the Instant Pot has got you covered.