Quick Instant Pot Gluten Free Recipes For Dinner Tonight
Instant pot gluten free recipes offer diverse dishes cooked quickly and easily. These recipes deliver wholesome, flavorful meals for any occasion.
Equipment
- To ensure seamless preparation of this dish, the following kitchen tools are recommended:
- Instant Pot (6-quart or larger)
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 pound gluten-free pasta (penne, rotini, or similar shape)
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: Saut Aromatics: Set the instant pot to the "Saut" function. Add olive oil, followed by chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Add Ingredients: Turn off the "Saut" function. Add crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the instant pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Step 3: Add Pasta: Add the gluten-free pasta to the instant pot. Gently press the pasta down into the liquid to ensure it is mostly submerged. Do not stir.
- Step 4: Pressure Cook: Secure the lid of the instant pot and set the valve to the "Sealing" position. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function and set the cooking time to half the time indicated on the pasta package instructions, minus one minute. For example, if the package says to cook for 10 minutes, set the instant pot for 4 minutes.
- Step 5: Quick Release: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick pressure release by moving the valve to the "Venting" position. Be cautious of the steam.
- Step 6: Stir and Serve: Once the pressure has fully released, carefully open the lid. Stir the pasta well. If the sauce is too thin, set the instant pot back to "Saut" mode and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to the desired consistency.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Optional Tips: For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the crushed tomatoes. To make this dish vegetarian, ensure the vegetable broth is certified vegetarian. Consider adding spinach or other leafy greens during the last minute of cooking for added nutrition.
Notes
Variations
The core recipe serves as a versatile foundation, easily adapted to cater to personal preferences and dietary considerations.
- Ingredient Swaps: Different types of gluten-free pasta can be used, such as lentil-based or chickpea-based pasta. For a richer flavor, substitute fire-roasted tomatoes for crushed tomatoes. Protein can be added in the form of cooked ground beef, Italian sausage (ensure gluten-free), or chickpeas.
- Regional Twists: For a Mediterranean flair, add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese after cooking. A spicy version can be achieved by increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. A more complex flavor profile emerges with the inclusion of fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme alongside basil and oregano.
- Dietary Adjustments: To make this recipe vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese garnish. Ensure the vegetable broth used is certified vegan. For a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium vegetable broth and adjust the salt to taste. Incorporating more vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, increases the nutritional value and fiber content.
Serving Suggestions
This gluten-free pasta dish is ideal as a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. It pairs well with a side salad for a balanced lunch or dinner. Serving in shallow bowls enhances the presentation, and garnishing with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil adds visual appeal. The dish can also be served as a base for grilled chicken or shrimp, transforming it into a more substantial meal.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness, allow the pasta dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerated, it remains palatable for up to 3 days. Reheating can be done in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth during reheating to prevent the pasta from drying out. Freezing is not recommended as the pasta texture may become mushy upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use other types of beans besides chickpeas?
Yes, cannellini beans or kidney beans would also work well in this recipe. - Question 2: Can I add cream to make it creamier?
Coconut cream or cashew cream can be stirred in after cooking for a dairy-free creamy texture. - Question 3: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Avoid stirring the pasta after adding it to the instant pot. Also, ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in liquid before pressure cooking. - Question 4: What if the pasta is overcooked?
Reduce the pressure cooking time by 1-2 minutes in subsequent attempts. If the pasta is already overcooked, consider using the dish as a base for a casserole.