Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon

Introduction

Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon is a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and restaurant-worthy dinner with minimal fuss. By using your Instant Pot, you lock in moisture and flavor, ensuring perfectly tender salmon every time while infusing it with bright lemon and aromatic garlic. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, elegant entertaining, or whenever you crave a flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon

The Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon stands out thanks to its speed and ability to keep salmon juicy and flaky, never dry. Fresh lemon adds vibrant citrus, while garlic depth and a touch of butter provide silky richness. The gentle steam environment makes it difficult to overcook, so even novice home cooks can easily master this recipe.

Choosing and Prepping Your Ingredients

For the most flavorful result, opt for high-quality, fresh salmon fillets and robust, aromatic garlic. Freshly squeezed lemon juice offers brightness, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley brings a fresh finish. To save prep time, use a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for dicing onions or vegetables often paired with this salmon.

Line the bottom of your Instant Pot insert with a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

The Foolproof Instant Pot Method

Using the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart takes all the guesswork out of salmon. Simply add your lemon juice, garlic, and seasonings, then steam the salmon fillets in minutes. This results in tender, evenly cooked fish.

A quick check with a ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking ensures your salmon reaches the perfect internal temperature (about 125–130°F for juicy, medium).

Serving and Storing Your Salmon

Serve your lemon garlic salmon over steamed vegetables or a simple grain. For quick meal prep or to pack a healthy lunch, store leftover salmon portions in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Garnish with extra fresh parsley or dill and an additional squeeze of lemon juice for an eye-catching and delicious finish.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 4 servings. Each serving delivers a lean source of protein and healthy fats, with under 350 calories per portion (depending on the fillet size and amount of butter or oil used). It’s a heart-healthy option that’s both satisfying and light.

Instructions

1. Cut and prepare optional onions or zucchini for a bed under the salmon. Use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for fast, even dicing.
2. Line the bottom of your Instant Pot with a piece of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
3. Place prepared vegetables or place a rack/trivet into the Instant Pot and arrange the salmon fillets on top.
4. Drizzle salmon with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle minced garlic evenly, then add lemon zest, juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Lock the lid on the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart. Ensure the valve is set to Sealing. Select the “Steam” or “Manual” setting and set for 3–4 minutes (for fresh), or 6 minutes (for frozen fillets).
6. When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 2 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
7. Open the Instant Pot and carefully test doneness with the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking; salmon should reach 125–130°F in the thickest part.
8. Transfer salmon to plates. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or dill and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
9. Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 4 minutes

Total Time: 14 minutes (plus a few extra minutes for pressure building/releasing)

Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon (Recap)

Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon is a fast, foolproof way to serve tender, flavorful fish with minimal effort. Its bright, zesty, and savory profile appeals to a variety of palates, making it a reliable centerpiece for weeknight meals and special occasions alike. With simple prep and the right tools, mealtime becomes effortless and delicious.