If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweetness, tang, and the rich flavor of fresh fish, this Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender salmon fillets topped with juicy pineapple slices and coated in a luscious, slightly spicy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe brings together vibrant flavors and simple ingredients to create a memorable, healthy plate that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the flavor complexity here—each ingredient is straightforward but plays an essential role. Together, they create a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and zesty tastes, along with beautiful textures and vibrant colors on your plate.
- Salmon side (2½ pounds): The star of the dish, offering rich, flaky flesh that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural taste of the salmon without overpowering it.
- Pineapple slices (1 can, drained): Adds natural sweetness and a juicy contrast to the salty fish.
- Sweet chili sauce (½ cup): Brings a gentle heat and sticky glaze that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce.
- Hoisin sauce (4 tablespoons): Provides a rich, slightly smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Lifts the dish with a bright, citrusy zing.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and a touch of pungency.
- Fresh cilantro (2 tablespoons, roughly chopped): A fresh, herbal note that finishes the dish perfectly.
- Lime slices: A vibrant garnish that adds extra zing when served.
How to Make Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it to prevent sticking, which also makes cleanup a breeze. This sets the perfect foundation for your salmon to bake evenly.
Step 2: Arrange the Pineapple Slices
Lay your drained pineapple slices in a single layer directly on the foil. These slices serve as a juicy and flavorful bed for the salmon fillet, infusing every bite with tropical sweetness as they cook.
Step 3: Season and Position the Salmon
Season the salmon generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the fillet skin-side down on top of the pineapple, which allows the skin to crisp up gently while keeping the flesh moist and tender.
Step 4: Whisk the Sauce Together
In a bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, melted butter, hoisin sauce, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and the reserved pineapple juice. Whisk these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, promising that perfect balance of tangy and sweet with a hint of spice.
Step 5: Coat the Salmon with Sauce
Pour the sauce evenly over the salmon, making sure every inch is covered. This glaze will seep into the fish as it bakes, creating an irresistible caramelized finish and sealing in flavor and moisture.
Step 6: Bake Until Almost Done
Bake your salmon for about 15 minutes, or until it’s mostly cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which can dry out this beautiful fish.
Step 7: Broil for Caramelized Perfection
Switch your oven to broil and cook the salmon for another 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that gorgeous caramelized top with slightly charred edges, adding a delightful depth of flavor and appealing texture.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the salmon and serve with lime slices on the side. The cilantro adds a fresh herbaceous note while the lime brings an additional citrus punch that brightens the entire dish.
How to Serve Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped cilantro is the perfect green pop and aromatic boost for the finished salmon. Pair it with thin lime wedges so everyone can squeeze as much brightness and acidity as they want, balancing the sweetness and richness of the dish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Steamed jasmine or basmati rice is a classic, soaking up that luscious pineapple and chili sauce. Alternatively, roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a crisp side salad bring fresh, vibrant textures that complement the salmon’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, plate the salmon over a bed of fluffy coconut rice for a tropical vibe. Add more pineapple slices roasted alongside the salmon so they look golden and exquisite on the plate. You can also drizzle extra sauce artistically around the plate for a restaurant-quality touch that highlights every flavorful component.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Baked Pineapple Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the next day’s lunch or dinner without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze cooked salmon wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container or bag. It’s best consumed within 1 to 2 months for optimal taste and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a low oven at around 275 °F (135 °C) for 10–15 minutes to maintain moisture. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the fish. A quick pan sear can also help bring back some of the crispiness on the edges.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple slices work wonderfully in this recipe and provide a brighter, fresher flavor. Just be sure to pat them dry a bit before layering under the salmon to avoid excess moisture.
Is it okay to use salmon skin-on or skinless?
Both work well, but skin-on salmon tends to hold together better during baking and adds a crispy texture on the bottom. If you prefer skinless, just be gentle when transferring the salmon to the baking sheet.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be whisked together in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a quick stir before pouring it over the salmon to ensure it’s well combined.
How spicy is the sweet chili sauce in this recipe?
Sweet chili sauce typically offers a gentle heat with sweetness, making it approachable for most palates. If you like it more spicy, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
What side dishes would pair well with this Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe?
Light, fresh sides like steamed vegetables, a crisp salad, or coconut rice are perfect to balance the richness of the salmon and enhance the tropical flavors from the pineapple and sauce.
Final Thoughts
Giving the Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe a try guarantees a delightful meal filled with vibrant, balanced flavors and simple but impressive presentation. It’s an easy way to bring something new and exciting to your dinner table that feels both fresh and comforting. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a fast favorite, and you’ll want to make it again and again.
Print
Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American with Asian influence
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Baked Pineapple Salmon recipe offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors with tender salmon fillets baked atop juicy pineapple slices and smothered in a luscious sweet chili and hoisin sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Salmon and Pineapple
- 2½ pounds salmon side (skin-on or off)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can pineapple slices, drained (reserve ¼ cup juice)
Sauce
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- Lime slices, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Arrange pineapple slices: Lay the drained pineapple slices in a single, even layer on top of the prepared baking sheet foil, creating a flavorful base for the salmon.
- Season the salmon: Season the salmon side generously with salt and pepper, then place it on top of the pineapple slices, skin-side down if the skin is on.
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, melted butter, hoisin sauce, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and the reserved pineapple juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Apply the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the salmon, ensuring it is fully coated for maximum flavor infusion during baking.
- Bake the salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the salmon is almost cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Broil for caramelization: Switch your oven to broil mode and cook the salmon for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, until the top is caramelized and slightly charred at the edges for added texture and taste.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve the baked pineapple salmon with lime slices to add a bright, citrusy finishing touch.
Notes
- If you prefer skin-on salmon, placing it skin-side down helps keep the fish moist and makes it easier to remove from the baking sheet.
- You can substitute fresh pineapple slices if canned are unavailable, but adjust the juice quantity accordingly.
- For added heat, sprinkle some chili flakes into the sauce before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and are excellent served cold or reheated gently.
- Ensure not to overcook the salmon to maintain its tender texture and prevent dryness.
