Instant Pot Salmon with Garlic Potatoes and Greens

There’s something special about a dinner that feels fancy but comes together in one pot with barely any cleanup. That’s exactly what this Instant Pot salmon recipe delivers—tender, juicy salmon with buttery garlic potatoes and fresh wilted greens, all infused with lemon and herbs. It’s nourishing, bright, and deeply comforting. And the best part? It’s done in under 30 minutes.

Behind the Recipe

I remember the first time I tried salmon in the Instant Pot—I was skeptical. Would it come out dry? Overcooked? But to my surprise, it was flaky, perfectly moist, and infused with the flavors of whatever I added to the pot. Since then, this recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen on busy nights when I want something hearty but healthy.

The potatoes cook at the bottom, soaking up garlic and broth, while the salmon steams above, staying juicy and flavorful. Toss in the greens at the end and you’ve got a full meal without dirtying a bunch of pans. It’s smart cooking that tastes like it took way more effort.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While this dish is more of a modern creation than a traditional classic, it draws inspiration from Mediterranean-style meals—those that emphasize olive oil, fish, greens, and simple but bold seasoning. It’s a nod to how food can be both light and satisfying, especially when made with care and intention.

Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Salmon

Besides being quick, this dish has so many perks:

One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
Healthy and Balanced: Protein, veggies, and starch all in one.
Flavor-Packed: Lemon, garlic, butter, and paprika bring it to life.
Fast: Dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes.
No-Fail Cooking: The Instant Pot keeps salmon tender every time.
Customizable: Use any greens or swap in sweet potatoes.
Great for Meal Prep: Makes a solid leftover lunch.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use skin-on salmon fillets for more moisture and flavor.
• Cut potatoes into even chunks so they cook uniformly.
• Season generously—pressure cooking can mute subtle flavors.
• Don’t overcook the salmon—follow the timing closely.
• Stir greens in only at the end to keep them vibrant.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You won’t need much beyond your trusty Instant Pot:

• Instant Pot (6 or 8 quart)
• Trivet or steamer rack
• Mixing bowl
• Citrus zester or microplane
• Slotted spoon or tongs

Ingredients in Instant Pot Salmon with Garlic Potatoes and Greens

Here’s what you’ll need to bring it all together:

• Salmon fillets (4, about 6 oz each) – Center-cut for even cooking.
• Red potatoes (1 lb, quartered) – Hold their shape but get tender.
• Garlic cloves (3, minced) – Adds that cozy, savory depth.
• Fresh spinach (4 cups) – Wilts down for the perfect green.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons) – Rich flavor and healthy fat.
• Lemon (1, zested and juiced) – Brightens the whole dish.
• Salt (1 teaspoon) – Pulls out all the flavors.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – Mild heat and balance.
• Paprika (1/2 teaspoon) – Subtle smokiness.
• Vegetable broth (3/4 cup) – Adds moisture and flavor.
• Butter (2 tablespoons) – Adds silkiness to the potatoes.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Red potatoes: Yukon gold or even sweet potatoes work too.
• Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard are great substitutes.
• Butter: Use ghee or a vegan butter substitute.
• Vegetable broth: Chicken broth or water with bouillon works.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Salmon: Rich in omega-3s and high in protein, salmon is both nutritious and quick to cook. Center-cut fillets cook evenly and stay moist in the Instant Pot.

Red Potatoes: Their waxy texture makes them perfect for pressure cooking—they don’t fall apart and hold up beautifully next to the salmon.

Instructions for Making Instant Pot Salmon

Let’s walk through this step by step:

1. Preheat Your Equipment

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and garlic, and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Combine Ingredients

Add potatoes, salt, pepper, and paprika to the pot. Stir to coat in the garlic oil. Pour in vegetable broth and stir. Turn off sauté mode.

3. Prepare the Cooking Vessel

Place a trivet or steamer rack over the potatoes. Arrange salmon fillets skin-side down on the trivet. Sprinkle with lemon zest and an extra pinch of salt and paprika.

4. Cook to Perfection

Secure the lid. Set Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 4 minutes. When done, quick release the pressure carefully.

5. Finishing Touches

Remove the salmon gently. Stir butter and spinach into the hot potatoes. Let the spinach wilt in the residual heat. Squeeze in lemon juice and adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Plate salmon over a bed of garlicky potatoes and greens. Drizzle with olive oil and a fresh lemon wedge.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The pressure cooker makes the salmon incredibly moist while the potatoes stay firm but buttery. Garlic and paprika create a savory backbone, and the lemon cuts through with just the right amount of brightness. The greens soften into the dish without turning mushy—a perfect bite every time.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use a trivet to keep the salmon from touching the broth.
• Add extra broth if you like your potatoes softer or slightly mashable.
• Want more depth? Add a splash of white wine before sealing the lid.

What to Avoid

• Don’t skip the quick release—salmon can overcook fast.
• Avoid overcrowding the Instant Pot. Cook in two batches if needed.
• Don’t add greens too early—they’ll turn dull and soggy.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~420
Protein: 35g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 3g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can chop potatoes and season salmon in advance.
• Storage: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in microwave or on stovetop. Add a splash of broth to loosen up the potatoes.

How to Serve Instant Pot Salmon

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, a citrusy side salad, or even a slice of warm sourdough bread. For brunch, serve with poached eggs and avocado.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Flake the salmon into a grain bowl with quinoa and fresh herbs.
• Turn the potatoes and greens into a breakfast hash.
• Make salmon salad with a bit of Greek yogurt, dill, and lemon.

Additional Tips

• For a bolder flavor, rub the salmon with a garlic-herb spice mix before cooking.
• Want a little heat? Add chili flakes to the garlic oil.
• Top with toasted pine nuts or feta cheese for an extra layer.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve each portion with a thin lemon wheel on top of the salmon, a sprinkle of flaky salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add a sprig of dill or parsley for color and freshness. Plating it on white dishes lets the salmon’s pink hue and greens really pop.

Variations to Try

• Asian-Inspired: Use sesame oil, soy sauce, and bok choy.
• Cajun Salmon: Season with Cajun spice and add bell peppers to the pot.
• Lemony Herb: Mix rosemary and thyme into the potatoes.
• Creamy Spinach: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese at the end.
• Grain Swap: Use cubed butternut squash or turnips instead of potatoes.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just add 1 extra minute to the pressure time.

Q2: What other greens can I use?
Kale, arugula, or even chopped broccoli rabe.

Q3: Is it gluten-free?
Yes! Naturally gluten-free as written.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but make sure not to overcrowd. Use a second layer if needed.

Q5: Can I use water instead of broth?
You can, but broth adds more flavor.

Q6: Will sweet potatoes work?
Yes! Just cut them smaller as they take longer to cook.

Q7: Can I make this dairy-free?
Use olive oil only and skip the butter—or use a plant-based option.

Q8: Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely! It’s great for make-ahead lunches.

Q9: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
In airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q10: Can I make this without a trivet?
Yes, but your salmon will cook in the broth and may be less firm.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Salmon with Garlic Potatoes and Greens is the kind of meal that feels like a treat but is totally doable on a weeknight. With simple ingredients and almost no cleanup, it’s nourishing, vibrant, and full of flavor—comfort food without the heaviness. If you’re looking for a one-pot meal that satisfies every craving, this is it.

Print