Are you looking for a culinary escape to the Mediterranean? Look no further! The Instant Pot has made it easy to bring the flavors and aromas of this sun-kissed region straight to your kitchen. With its pressure cooker functionality, slow cooker capabilities, and sauté function, the Instant Pot is the ultimate tool for cooking up a storm of Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the Mediterranean, exploring 18 mouthwatering recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to make. From classic Greek and Turkish dishes to modern twists on traditional favorites, these recipes showcase the best of the Mediterranean’s bold flavors and spices. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for each recipe.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched coastlines and bustling markets of the Mediterranean. Let’s start cooking!
Instant Pot Mediterranean Chicken with Olives and Artichokes
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this quick and easy Instant Pot recipe, featuring chicken, olives, artichoke hearts, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned or fresh
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, olives, artichoke hearts, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Greek Lemon Rice with Feta
Elevate your mealtime with this simple and aromatic Instant Pot recipe, combining the brightness of lemon zest with the tanginess of feta cheese. This side dish is perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper; cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add rice and stir to coat with the mixture.
4. Add water, lemon juice, and feta cheese. Stir well.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and set cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of quinoa with the bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, all in one pot. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup pitted and chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or fresh
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add quinoa and water to the Instant Pot. Close lid and set valve to “sealing”.
2. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
3. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, red onion, olives, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 11 minutes
Instant Pot Moroccan Lamb Stew
Discover the rich flavors of Morocco with this hearty lamb stew cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1 cup chickpeas
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups lamb broth or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onions and cook until they start to soften (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, apricots, chickpeas, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lamb pieces, broth, honey, salt, and black pepper. Close the lid and make sure valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set timer to 20 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snacking game with these flavorful and nutritious stuffed peppers, packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cut tops off peppers and remove seeds. Place in the Instant Pot in a single layer.
5. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at 6 minutes of high pressure, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Carefully open valve and quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve peppers hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Greek-Style Lemon Potatoes
A twist on traditional mashed potatoes, these creamy, citrusy spuds are a perfect side dish for your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Open the lid, fluff the potatoes with a fork, and garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Mediterranean Chickpea Stew
A flavorful and nutritious stew that combines the warmth of Mediterranean spices with the comforting taste of chickpeas, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pot.
5. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Mediterranean Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta
Mediterranean Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta Recipe
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this quick and easy Instant Pot recipe, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich tomato sauce with crumbly feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add shrimp and stir to coat with tomato mixture.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 2 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Stir in crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Greek Beef Gyros
Experience the flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious recipe for Instant Pot Greek Beef Gyros.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as flank steak or top round), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned (5-6 minutes).
4. Add chicken broth, red wine vinegar, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Slice cooked beef into thin strips. Assemble gyros by placing beef onto pita breads with your favorite toppings (such as tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, and tzatziki sauce).
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instant Pot Mediterranean Eggplant and Chickpea Curry
Experience the warm flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and aromatic curry, made easy and quick in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add eggplant, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “SEALING”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Stir in chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Mediterranean Orzo with Spinach and Feta
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty, comforting orzo dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the orzo, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 4 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
8. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves until wilted, then top with crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 14 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Greek-Style Lemon Chicken Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this zesty and flavorful soup, infused with the bold flavors of Greece. This Instant Pot recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, onion, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the valve.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with parsley and crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Mediterranean Lentil and Vegetable Stew
This hearty stew combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the bright, zesty flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Mediterranean Fish with Herbed Tomato Sauce
A flavorful and healthy fish dish infused with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, served atop a rich herbed tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod or tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Place fish fillets on top of the tomato sauce. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
5. Cook at high pressure for 4 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Open the valve and quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Serve warm with lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 14 minutes
Instant Pot Greek-Style Spanakorizo (Spinach Rice)
A creamy and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This Instant Pot recipe combines the classic Greek flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and lemon with the convenience of a pressure cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the rice, water, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 4 minutes at high pressure.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
9. Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Pilaf
This hearty Instant Pot recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the rice, water or broth, and stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Pilaf!
Instant Pot Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Transform zucchinis into a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish with this easy Instant Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat Instant Pot to “Saute” mode. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and paprika. Stir to combine.
3. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving shells intact.
4. Place stuffed zucchini boats in a single layer on the Instant Pot trivet. Close lid, ensuring valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Cook at high pressure for 6 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Greek-Style Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Experience the bright and zesty flavors of Greece with this easy and delicious shrimp recipe, cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they start to turn pink.
4. Pour in the lemon juice and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 2 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Stir in the parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 9-10 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with these 18 delicious and easy Instant Pot recipes. From classic dishes like chicken with olives and artichokes to innovative creations like stuffed zucchini boats, there’s something for everyone in this collection. With a focus on fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices, these recipes will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Greece, Morocco, and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these Instant Pot Mediterranean recipes are sure to impress.