How to Make the Perfect Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon
American · Easy · 15 min · 4 servings
Perfectly flaky and moist salmon fillets infused with bright lemon and savory garlic flavors using the Instant Pot steam function. It is a light and healthy dinner that can be on the table in under 20 minutes.
Why this recipe works
This Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 280 calories with 34g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 fillets salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large lemon, sliced into rounds
- 1 tsp dried dill
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steamer
Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet or steamer basket inside. Lay a few lemon slices on the trivet to add flavor from below.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and dried dill in a small bowl. Brush this mixture over the top of each salmon fillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Steam the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the trivet in a single layer. Top each fillet with a lemon slice. Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 3 minutes, then do a quick release immediately.
Step 4: Check and Serve
Carefully open the lid and check that the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Serve immediately with fresh vegetables or rice.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- salmon fillets → tilapia or cod fillets but reduce cook time to 2 minutes
- butter → olive oil for a dairy-free version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overcooking the salmon by even 1 extra minute results in dry and rubbery fish
- Not using enough water in the pot can prevent proper steaming and trigger a burn notice
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 280 calories, 34g protein, 3g carbs, 14g fat, 0g fiber.
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