20 Healthy Instant Pot Recipes You’ll Wish You Discovered Sooner
Planning, cooking and eating a healthy diet takes time, a resource we are all short on. But luckily, there are now tools, like the Instant Pot, that can help make great-tasting, good-for-you food in less time than we’ve traditionally been accustomed to, making healthier eating a breeze – and a lot more fun! If you don’t already own an Instant Pot, this guide may convince you to finally take the plunge.
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1 of 20
Instant Pot Chicken with Quinoa, Pistachios and Apricots
<p>A complete meal without a complete mess. <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/popular-chicken-breast-recipes-you-need-to-try/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Juicy chicken</a> is the anchor to this recipe, complemented by tender red quinoa, crunchy pistachios, sweet dried apricots and gently spicy serrano chiles.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-chicken-with-quinoa-pistachios-and-apricots/22681/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Chicken with Quinoa, Pistachios and Apricots</a></strong></p> -
2 of 20
Instant Pot Keto Chili
<p>This keto chili builds slow-cooked flavour in an instant thanks to our favourite pressure cooker. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for a few days, and even freeze well for a speedy supper any night of the week.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-keto-chili/22284/" target="_blank">Instant Pot Keto Chili</a></strong></p> -
3 of 20
Instant Pot Saag Paneer
<p>Get the long-cooked flavour of traditional saag paneer in less than half the time with this lightened-up version. Instead of heavy cream, this recipe leans on Greek yogurt for its dairy decadence. Keep it keto and enjoy as is or with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/healthy-cauliflower-rice/19523/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">cauliflower rice</a>, or steam up some basmati rice and call it dinner.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-saag-paneer/22694/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Saag Paneer</a></strong></p> -
4 of 20
Instant Pot Pozole Rojo
<p>Enjoy this high-protein, flavour-packed, gluten-free Mexican bowl for both dinner tonight and lunch tomorrow, or make it for a party (it feeds a crowd!). And don’t forget the toppings; customize the pork stew with your favourite healthy add-ons such as cabbage, avocado, radishes and lime.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-pozole-rojo/22693/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Pozole Rojo</a></strong></p> -
5 of 20
Instant Pot Indian Spicy Eggplant
<p>This <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/plant-based-recipes-for-beginners/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">plant-based main</a> is a nod to bhartha, an Indian eggplant dish that’s traditionally more time-consuming. The Instant Pot version cuts the time, not the taste.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-indian-spicy-eggplant/22689/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Indian Spicy Eggplant</a></strong></p> -
6 of 20
Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls
<p>Texturally exciting and quick to prepare, this Greek chicken bowl marries salad with souvlaki in a healthy, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/pioneer-woman-best-summer-dinner-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">family-friendly dinner</a> that will quickly earn a place in your weekly meal rotation.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-greek-chicken-bowls/22288/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls</a></strong></p> -
7 of 20
Instant Pot Indian Dal
<p>Indian dal is made Instant Pot-friendly without sacrificing its known-for layers of complexity. In this version, red lentils, a pleasing plant-based protein rich in fibre and iron, marry with anti-inflammatory spices and tomatoes. Make it vegan by replacing the butter with coconut oil.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-indian-dal/22687/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Indian Dal</a></strong></p> -
8 of 20
Instant Pot Mini Frittatas
<p>Adorable, delicious, keto-friendly Instant Pot frittatas are a healthy and filling start to any day of the week. PS: here are <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/creative-ways-to-cook-eggs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">30 more creative ways to cook eggs</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-mini-frittatas/22289/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instant Pot Mini Frittatas</a></strong></p> -
9 of 20
Instant Pot Keto Mediterranean Chicken
<p>Never-dry <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/15-best-chicken-thigh-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">chicken thighs</a> are perked up by briny olives and capers, along with white wine vinegar and Greek yogurt for a high-fat, high-protein and most importantly, speedy, Instant Pot chicken dinner.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-keto-mediterranean-chicken/22690/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Keto Mediterranean Chicken</a></strong></p> -
10 of 20
Instant Pot Black Bean Soup
<p>Black beans are filled with fibre and protein, making them a healthy option that’s not only delicious when turned into a soup, but affordable – even more so when cooked from dry, thanks to the Instant Pot.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-black-bean-soup/20172/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Black Bean Soup</a></strong></p> -
11 of 20
Instant Pot Yogurt
<p>Up your breakfast game by making your own probiotic-rich yogurt at home with the help of the Instant Pot. Look for a good-quality whole milk for the best flavour and texture.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-yogurt/22283/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instant Pot Yogurt</a></strong></p> -
12 of 20
Instant Pot Indian Shrimp Biriyani
<p>Already quick-cooking shrimp is paired with bold spices, tender rice and herbed yogurt for a healthy weeknight meal you’ll make again and again. Serve with a simple and refreshing <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cucumber-salad-with-fresh-coconut/13048/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">cucumber salad</a> to round out your dinner.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-indian-shrimp-biriyani/22688/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Indian Shrimp Biriyani</a></strong></p> -
13 of 20
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
<p>Nourishing chicken noodle soup is full of vitamins and minerals – and just feels good – but it’s not always simple to make. The Instant Pot cuts down on the steps to make the classic good-for-you bowl an everyday reality.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-chicken-noodle-soup/22122/" target="_blank"><strong>Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup</strong></a></p> -
14 of 20
Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash with Marinara
<p><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/healthy-and-delicious-spaghetti-squash-recipes/">Healthy spaghetti squash</a> stands in for noodles in this ode to a classic. The squash cooks much faster than oven methods and resists drying out for perfect texture, flavour and preserved nutrition.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/recipe/instant-pot-spaghetti-squash-with-marinara/22696/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash with Marinara</a></strong></p> -
15 of 20
Instant Pot Whole30 Chicken Tikka Masala
<p>This Whole30 compliant meal makes a takeout favourite healthier, faster and, dare we say, more delicious than its originator.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-whole30-chicken-tikka-masala/22286/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instant Pot Whole30 Chicken Tikka Masala</a></strong></p> -
16 of 20
Instant Pot Hard-Boiled Eggs
<p>Meal prep a batch of perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs to top salads and <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/banquet-bowls-with-cauliflower-hazelnut-pilaf-dhal-and-scallion-cucumber-raita/18140/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">grain bowls</a> throughout the week, or keep on hand for an ‘instant’ high-protein snack.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/recipe/instant-pot-hard-boiled-eggs/22686/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instant Pot Hard-Boiled Eggs</a></strong></p> -
17 of 20
Beef Barbacoa Tacos
<p>Melt-in-your-mouth beef is made doable on a weeknight thanks to the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking functionality. Keep things on the light side by enjoying your tacos with heart-healthy avocado, shredded cabbage and creamy Greek yogurt.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/beef-barbacoa-tacos/21236/" target="_blank">Beef Barbacoa Tacos</a></strong></p> -
18 of 20
Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
<p>Cooking vegetables at high pressure turns them into a creamy soup with or without the addition of cream. Try this vitamin-rich version with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/superfood-spotlight-best-sweet-potato-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sweet potatoes</a> or carrots if butternut squash isn’t in season.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/instant-pot-butternut-squash-soup-5449624" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup</strong></a></p> -
19 of 20
Pressure-Cooker Pork Stew with Fall Vegetables
<p>Pressure cooking pork and vegetables locks in nutrients while tenderizing all parties in this heartwarming stew.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pressure-cooker-pork-stew-with-fall-vegetables/17363" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pressure-Cooker Pork Stew with Fall Vegetables</a></strong></p> -
20 of 20
Quick Taco-Style Chili
<p>A hearty, healthy <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/10-best-chili-recipes-to-feed-a-crowd/">pot of chili</a> never goes out of style, and now you can make it even faster in the Instant Pot. Simple swaps, like using ground turkey or chicken over ground beef, and keeping the toppings veg (hello, avocado), make a decadent meal feel a little more virtuous.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quick-taco-style-chili/21238/" target="_blank">Quick Taco-Style Chili</a></strong></p>