11 Summer Instant Pot Recipes For Lazy Weeknight Meals

11 Summer Instant Pot Recipes For Lazy Weeknight Meals are exactly what you need when the heat rises and your motivation to cook drops. Summer evenings are meant for relaxing—not sweating over a hot stove—and these quick, easy, and delicious Instant Pot meals let you do just that. Packed with fresh seasonal ingredients and bursting with vibrant flavors, each recipe brings the taste of summer right to your plate with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving something light and citrusy, rich and hearty, or globally inspired, this collection has you covered with meals that come together in a flash and satisfy every craving.

Forget the takeout menus and microwave dinners—your Instant Pot is the real hero of weeknight cooking. These recipes are designed to keep your kitchen cool and your schedule breezy. From tangy BBQ pulled chicken to zesty pasta salads and refreshing veggie-packed stews, you’ll find dishes that the whole family will love, with cleanup that’s just as easy. So sit back, let your Instant Pot do the heavy lifting, and enjoy a delicious meal without the stress or the mess.

Mediterranean Chickpea Stew

This Mediterranean Chickpea Stew is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor and is perfect for those lazy weeknight dinners. Packed with protein from chickpeas and enriched with fresh veggies and spices, this stew is both satisfying and nourishing.

Easy to prepare in your Instant Pot, it allows you to whip up a hearty meal in no time. Just toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and relax while the flavors meld into a comforting dish that warms the soul.

Ingredients

• 2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 medium zucchini, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add a splash of oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the Ingredients: Stir in the chickpeas, tomatoes, vegetable broth, zucchini, bell pepper, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Cook: Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
4. Serve: Open the lid, stir the stew, and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Chickpea Stew!

Lemon Herb Chicken with Asparagus

This Lemon Herb Chicken with Asparagus is a light and refreshing dish perfect for summer weeknights. With bright lemon flavors and a hint of herbs, it brings a burst of freshness to your dinner table. Plus, it’s super easy to make in your Instant Pot, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal in no time.

The combination of tender chicken and crunchy asparagus creates a satisfying and healthy dinner. It’s a breeze to whip up, making it an excellent choice for those lazy evenings when you want something tasty without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Add the chicken broth to the pot, scraping any bits from the bottom. Place lemon slices at the bottom, then add the chicken on top.
4. Place asparagus around the chicken. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 7 minutes.
5. Once done, do a quick release. Serve immediately with lemon slices for extra zing.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Spicy shrimp tacos with mango salsa are a fantastic way to bring a burst of flavor to your weeknight meals. These tacos are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for those lazy summer evenings. The sweetness of ripe mango combined with the heat from the shrimp creates a delightful balance that everyone will love.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these tacos in no time. The Instant Pot makes cooking the shrimp a breeze, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Serve these tacos with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 small tortillas
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the shrimp: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes until pink and cooked through.
3. Prepare the mango salsa: In a separate bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice. Mix well and set aside.
4. Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a skillet or microwave until soft.
5. Assemble the tacos: Place cooked shrimp on each tortilla, top with mango salsa, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

This creamy tomato basil pasta is a delightful dish that balances rich, savory flavors with a hint of freshness. It’s perfect for a lazy weeknight meal, as it comes together quickly, yet feels indulgent and satisfying.

The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy sauce creates a tasty and comforting experience. Plus, making it in the Instant Pot means less mess and more time to relax!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Add the spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot. Stir gently to combine.
2. Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
3. Once the cooking time is complete, quick-release the pressure and open the lid.
4. Stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken the sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

This cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender broccoli florets with creamy cheese and hearty rice, creating a delightful balance of flavors. The dish is simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe when you need something quick yet satisfying.

The combination of cheesy goodness and fresh broccoli makes it not just tasty but also a little healthier. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike! Serve it as a main dish or a side, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine the brown rice and vegetable broth in the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 22 minutes. Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
2. Add the broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the rice. Stir well to combine.
3. Close the lid and set to sauté mode for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cheese is melted and the broccoli is tender.
4. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious cheesy broccoli and rice casserole!

Honey Garlic Salmon with Veggies

This honey garlic salmon recipe is a quick and tasty option for busy weeknights. The salmon is tender, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with fresh veggies, making it a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy.

Not only is it simple to whip up in the Instant Pot, but it also brings together sweet and savory flavors that make your taste buds dance. You’ll love how quickly dinner comes together!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place salmon fillets in a dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to soak up the flavors.
3. Add Veggies: Place the green beans and red bell pepper in the bottom of the Instant Pot. Lay the marinated salmon on top.
4. Cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual mode for 3-5 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. Allow for a quick release of pressure.
5. Serve: Carefully remove the salmon and veggies from the pot. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

If you’re looking for an easy and flavorful dinner, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are a fantastic choice. The tender, slow-cooked pork, slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, using an Instant Pot cuts down on cooking time, so you can enjoy this delicious dish on a busy weeknight.

These sandwiches pair well with crunchy coleslaw on top, adding a refreshing crunch to balance the rich flavors. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you can whip up a wonderful meal in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Hamburger buns
• Coleslaw (for topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sear it in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting until browned on all sides.
2. Cook: Remove the pork and add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for a couple of minutes, then return the pork to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and BBQ sauce.
3. Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 60 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Mix the shredded pork with any remaining sauce in the pot.
5. Serve: Pile the pulled pork onto hamburger buns and top with coleslaw before serving. Enjoy your delicious BBQ pulled pork sandwiches!

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Quinoa

This Vegetable Stir-Fry with Quinoa is a vibrant and satisfying dish that’s perfect for summer evenings. It’s packed with colorful veggies and has a delightful crunch, making each bite a celebration of flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of fresh vegetables and fluffy quinoa not only makes this dish tasty but also provides a healthy dose of protein and fiber. It’s a meal that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll appreciate how quick and easy this recipe is!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water. In an Instant Pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 1 minute, then allow a natural release for 10 minutes.
2. While quinoa is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Add bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and combine it with the stir-fried vegetables in the skillet.
5. Drizzle soy sauce over the mixture, stirring to combine everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a classic dish that brings together tender pieces of beef and fresh broccoli in a savory sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that packs a punch of flavor, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli tossed in a rich sauce creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

This recipe is easy to whip up in your Instant Pot, allowing you to savor the delicious flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a homemade meal that rivals takeout options. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Ingredients

• 1 pound flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and beef broth. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Beef: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add vegetable oil and heat. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Add Vegetables: In the same pot, add garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add broccoli and bell pepper; stir for 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine and Pressure Cook: Return the beef to the pot, pour in the sauce, and mix well. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 3 minutes.
5. Release Pressure: Once done, do a quick release. Serve hot over cooked rice.

Instant Pot Ratatouille

Instant Pot Ratatouille is a delicious and colorful vegetable dish that embodies the essence of summer. This meal is packed with flavors from fresh vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, making it both vibrant and healthy. Plus, cooking it in an Instant Pot saves time and effort, making it perfect for lazy weeknight dinners.

The dish is wonderfully aromatic, with herbs enhancing the taste of the vegetables. It’s not only simple to make but also versatile—serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even over pasta or rice. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant, diced
• 2 zucchinis, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the Vegetables: Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and slightly translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables: Once the onion is ready, add the diced eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. Stir and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. Mix in Tomatoes and Herbs: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, and add thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 8 minutes. Once done, allow natural release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve: Open the lid and stir the ratatouille. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Coconut Curry Lentil Soup

Coconut curry lentil soup is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to your weeknight meals. With a creamy coconut base and aromatic spices, it strikes a perfect balance between savory and slightly sweet. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare in your Instant Pot, making it an ideal choice for lazy evenings.

The soup is packed with protein-rich lentils and vibrant vegetables, ensuring you feel satisfied and nourished. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Dive into this easy recipe for a meal that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the coconut oil. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the red bell pepper and carrot, sautéing for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the rinsed lentils, curry powder, turmeric, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine and season with salt and pepper.
4. Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is in the sealing position. Set to manual mode for 15 minutes.
5. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then carefully switch to a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid, give the soup a good stir, and taste for seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Final thoughts

Lazy weeknights deserve flavorful rewards, and these 11 summer Instant Pot recipes deliver just that. They combine the ease of pressure cooking with the fresh, lively tastes of the season, turning ordinary dinners into something special. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for one, you’ll find these meals a perfect blend of convenience and taste. So the next time the summer heat has you reaching for the easiest option, turn to your Instant Pot—and this list—for meals that are anything but boring.