10 Quick Summer Dishes Made in an Instant Pot
Who wants to stand over a hot stove during the sweltering summer days? The Instant Pot is an ideal kitchen device for cooking throughout the summer, dramatically reducing preparation time while keeping your home cool. This means not only lower energy bills but also more time to relax by the pool instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Here are ten classic summer dishes that can be quickly prepared in the Instant Pot. If you haven’t picked up one of these appliances yet, now is the perfect time! (See also: 12 Ways to Save Money with Your Instant Pot)
1. BBQ Ribs
No summer gathering is complete without succulent, finger-licking ribs. Using the Instant Pot for BBQ ribs helps retain moisture in the meat, with a cooking time of just about 25 minutes. Pair these with some corn on the cob and plenty of napkins for a full experience.
2. Potato Salad
This recipe for potato salad allows for simultaneous cooking of potatoes and eggs in the Instant Pot. Say goodbye to the hassle of boiling ingredients separately! It’s effortless, savory, and a must-have for any summer barbecue.
3. Kalua Pork
Can’t make it to Hawaii this summer? Enjoy a Hawaiian favorite with minimal effort at home. Kalua pork is delicious served in a bun, over rice, or on a salad, and the recipe yields ample servings for enjoyable leftovers throughout the week.
4. Yogurt
Hot summer days call for lighter breakfast options like yogurt. It’s rich in protein and calcium, making it a healthy choice that pairs beautifully with granola and fruit. Instead of spending over $4 at the store for a quart of Greek yogurt, you can create three quarts of homemade yogurt for the price of a gallon of milk and a small container of yogurt, keeping breakfast ready for the week ahead.
5. BBQ Chicken
On days when dinner sneaks up on you and you haven’t planned anything, this BBQ chicken option is your savior. It’s swift, delicious, and can utilize frozen chicken and standard pantry sauces. BBQ chicken can be enjoyed in a variety of meals, from sandwiches and burritos to piling on nachos.
6. Corn on the Cob
When you spot deals like five ears of corn for $1, take advantage of it and cook those in your Instant Pot. Preparation and cooking only take three minutes! You can also use leftover corn for salads and side dishes throughout the summer.
7. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf makes for a great side dish year-round, but it’s particularly delightful in summer, complementing grilled chicken, steak, or fresh salads perfectly. This dish can be made in under 10 minutes in the Instant Pot. (See also: 3-Ingredient Instant Pot Recipes for Any Budget)
8. French Dip Sandwiches
Summer meal planning can be tricky, especially when wanting to avoid heavy casseroles in the heat. Luckily, French dip sandwiches are quick and easy to prepare. Pair them with coleslaw or chips for a satisfying summer meal. For added convenience, season raw meat and freeze it for a quick Instant Pot meal on busy evenings.
9. Strawberry Cobbler
Summer isn’t complete without a delightful strawberry cobbler topped with vanilla ice cream. You’ll be thrilled to know this dessert can be prepared in your Instant Pot in less than 30 minutes. If you enjoy the original version, feel free to swap out strawberries for blueberries or blackberries for a different twist.
10. Baked Beans
Skip the canned varieties this summer and indulge in homemade baked beans. The Instant Pot gives dried beans a rich, slow-cooked flavor in less than an hour, making them a perfect accompaniment to cheeseburgers or a simple side at summer gatherings.
