Using your Instant Pot to steam zucchini is not only super-fast but it’s also super healthy and the easiest thing ever! All you need is zucchini and water!
Contents
Does This Recipe Work with Other Veggies?
Yes! This basic Instant Pot Zucchini recipe will work with just about any vegetable you want to steam. Zucchini slices cook relatively quickly, so if you are steaming larger pieces of other vegetables, you may need to add a couple minutes of cook time, depending on what you’re steaming.
I like to do a combination of zucchini and yellow summer squash. They take exactly the same time to cook, so they work perfectly together.
They are also in season at the same time, in the summer. So take a trip to your local farmer’s market and load up on zucchini and summer squash while they’re in season!
Health Benefits of Zucchini
Instant Pot Zucchini is low in calories yet rich in nutrients and antioxidants. It contains high amounts of Vitamin C and beta-carotene which both contribute to eye strength and can reduce risk of eye disease.
It also has a high water content, which is good for hydration and digestion. This also means it has a low calorie density.
Additionally, studies show that eating zucchini as part of a healthy diet may help reduce blood pressure, stabilize blood sugar, and contribute to overall heart health.
Can I Cut the Zucchini in Quarters?
Yes, I like the way the slices look, but you can also cut the zucchini into quarters or even dice it into cubes.
Do I Need to Peel the Zucchini?
Nope! You can, but the skin of zucchini is typically quite thin and pleasant to eat. Plus, it’s where a lot of the nutrients are!
Same thing with summer squash—the skin is very thin so you do not need to peel it.
How Should I Serve it?
You can serve this zucchini as a side dish by itself or serve it over rice or pasta.
This recipe is great for meal prep since it’s so flexible. You can make a large batch and add this steamed zucchini to bowls and salads throughout the week. It should last for at least 2-3 days in the fridge.
Do I Need a Steamer Insert?
Yes, in order to have your pressure cooker function as a steamer, you’ll need some kind of steamer insert that fits inside your Instant Pot.
In order to make the zucchini, you can use one of these accessories:
1. Stainless steel steamer basket
2. Silicone Steamer Basket
3. Any other steamer basket that fits your Instant Pot model.
Variations
This recipe is super simple. I love zucchini, so I think seasoning with just salt and pepper makes it taste fabulous!
However, this recipe is super flexible. Try these variations on this simple steamed zucchini recipe to mix it up every now and then:
1. Asian style: make a light sauce by combining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds.
2. Garlic parm: toss the steamed zucchini in a small amount of olive oil and minced garlic, and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
More Zucchini and Simple Veg Recipes
If you are into zucchini, you have to try the Instant Pot zucchini noodles (Zoodles) recipe!
If you are looking for more healthy veg recipes, try this Instant Pot steamed vegetables recipe.
