Quick and Easy Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe

Hey there! If you’re looking to bring a little brightness and elegance to your dinner table without a ton of effort, this Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon might just be your new go-to recipe. Inspired by my love for fresh flavors and no-fuss cooking, this one is perfect for busy weeknights or even a casual dinner party. With just a handful of ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you’ll have a dish that’s flavorful, flaky, and oh-so-satisfying. Let’s get that kitchen smelling amazing, shall we?

Flaky salmon + zesty lemon + garlic butter = pure dinner bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, thanks to the Instant Pot.
• Healthy and Fresh: Loaded with omega-3s and vibrant citrus flavor, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• Minimal Cleanup: One pot means fewer dishes, which is a win in my book!
• Dinner Party-Worthy: It’s so flavorful and fancy-looking, no one will guess it took minimal effort.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials

• Salmon Fillets: Skin-on or skinless, fresh or frozen (thawed). Opt for wild-caught if available for deeper flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves for that aromatic kick—don’t skimp on this one!
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Brightens the dish while complementing the salmon beautifully. Fresh lemons are key.
• Butter: Adds richness to balance the citrusy notes.
• Chicken Broth: This liquid base infuses the salmon with moisture and subtle savory notes while it cooks.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the featured flavors shine.
• Parsley (Optional): For a little garnish and extra pop of color. Totally skippable if you don’t have it on hand.

Pro Tips

• If your salmon fillets are uneven in thickness, fold the thinner edges under for balanced cooking.
• No chicken broth? Use water with a pinch of salt or even dry white wine for a flavor boost.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper for even seasoning.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn.
3. Add the Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the bottom of the pot. Add the lemon juice and zest.
4. Layer the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the metal trivet (or directly in the liquid if a trivet isn’t available). Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode on high for 2–3 minutes (depending on fillet thickness).
5. Quick Release: Once the timer beeps, do a quick release of the pressure. Carefully remove the lid and check that the salmon flakes easily with a fork. If not, cook for another minute on the sauté function.
6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the salmon to plates and drizzle with the lemon garlic butter sauce from the pot. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired—then dig in!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Overcook: The salmon will keep cooking slightly from residual heat, so aim to remove it just as it reaches doneness.
• Enhance the Sauce: For extra richness, whisk a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch into the sauce and simmer on sauté for 1–2 minutes to thicken.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Swap the Protein: This method works wonderfully with skinless chicken breast or cod fillets—just adjust the cooking time.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the sauce for a little heat and extra flavor depth.
• Side Ideas: Serve with steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a fluffy quinoa salad to complement the dish.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen salmon? Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the salmon fillets completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
• How do I store leftovers? Store cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
• Can I freeze the cooked salmon? Yes! Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your creations with me by tagging #TheKitchensAid on social media or leave a comment below. Let’s make dinnertime delicious together!