Get ready to fall head-over-heels for Baked Pineapple Salmon—a vibrant, tropical-inspired main course that brings together perfectly flaky salmon with sweet, tangy pineapple and a luscious soy-honey glaze. This recipe delivers a stunning balance of savory and sweet flavors, an irresistible caramelized finish, and a juicy pop of pineapple in every bite. Handy for busy evenings and dinner parties alike, Baked Pineapple Salmon feels special but comes together in just 30 minutes, transforming a simple slab of fish into a dish that tastes like an island getaway.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of straightforward ingredients to create something extraordinary here. Each one adds something unique: the freshness of pineapple, the rich flavor of salmon, and the zing of ginger all work together to make this dish sing, while the simple glaze brings everything into beautiful, glossy harmony.
- Salmon side (about 2 to 2½ pounds): The main attraction, delivering protein and buttery richness, perfect for absorbing flavors.
- Pineapple chunks (1½ cups, fresh or canned): Add bursts of juicy sweetness and tropical flair—just be sure they’re well drained for maximum caramelization.
- Pineapple juice (¼ cup): Intensifies the fruity flavor and helps to tenderize the fish.
- Soy sauce or tamari (3 tablespoons): Lends salty, umami depth (tamari keeps things gluten-free if needed!).
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the glaze and helps the salmon caramelize in the oven.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Ensures moist, flaky salmon and a lovely sheen.
- Minced garlic (1 tablespoon): Brings punchy aroma and flavor to the marinade.
- Grated fresh ginger (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a little spice that complements the pineapple beautifully.
- Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For those who like a gentle kick of heat to balance out the sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Don’t skip seasoning—it makes all the other flavors pop.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish: Bright color, gentle crunch, and a finishing touch of freshness.
How to Make Baked Pineapple Salmon
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Salmon
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup. Lay your side of salmon skin-side down right in the center—this gives the glaze plenty of surface area to soak in and ensures the fish cooks evenly. Let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes while you whip up the marinade, so everything bakes together beautifully.
Step 2: Whisk the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together your pineapple juice, soy sauce (or tamari), honey, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh ginger, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like heat, plus salt and pepper. This mixture should smell absolutely heavenly—sweet, spicy, and savory all at once! Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if desired.
Step 3: Glaze the Salmon and Add Pineapple
Generously brush or spoon the marinade all over the top and sides of the salmon, allowing a bit to pool around the base for added moisture. Next, scatter your pineapple chunks all over and around the fish—nestling them in ensures you get pineapple flavor in every forkful. If you want even bolder flavor, you can let the salmon marinate for up to 30 minutes before baking.
Step 4: Bake and Broil for Perfection
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is just cooked through. If your filets are very thick, you might need a moment or two longer. For an extra-glossy, caramelized top, broil the Baked Pineapple Salmon for the final 2 minutes—but keep a close eye, as the honey and pineapple can brown quickly.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your Baked Pineapple Salmon rest for a few moments to lock in all those juices. Finish with plenty of sliced green onions and a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of color and freshness before serving up gorgeous slices to your lucky guests (or yourself!).
How to Serve Baked Pineapple Salmon
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of great garnishes! A scattering of fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the Baked Pineapple Salmon adds vibrant color, a delicate crunch, and a little extra burst of freshness that perfectly complements the sweet-savory glaze. For a special touch, you could even toss on some fresh cilantro leaves or extra red pepper flakes.
Side Dishes
Baked Pineapple Salmon pairs especially well with fluffy jasmine rice or aromatic coconut rice, both of which soak up the extra glaze like a sponge. A crisp Asian-inspired slaw or a stir-fry of snow peas, bell peppers, and broccoli adds crunch and color to your plate. Roasted sweet potatoes or simple sautéed greens also make delightful partners.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this dish into a showstopper by serving the entire side of Baked Pineapple Salmon on a large platter, surrounded by the roasted pineapple and garnished lavishly—perfect for family-style dinners. For something a little different, flake leftover salmon and pineapple over a bowl of hot rice, tuck them into lettuce wraps with slaw, or spoon onto tacos for an easy tropical twist midweek.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Baked Pineapple Salmon, you’re in luck—it holds up wonderfully! Cool the salmon and pineapple to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and enjoy cold or gently reheated for quick lunches and easy dinners.
Freezing
To freeze, let the Baked Pineapple Salmon cool completely, then portion and pack into airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags (try to remove as much air as possible). It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To gently reheat, place the salmon and pineapple in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until just heated through—usually 10 minutes or so. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave on low in 30-second bursts. Try not to overheat, as salmon can dry out quickly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your salmon fillet completely and pat it dry before glazing and baking. This helps the flavors stick and ensures even cooking. Frozen salmon is a great time-saver and works just as well for Baked Pineapple Salmon.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use tamari in place of regular soy sauce to keep your Baked Pineapple Salmon gluten-free. Always double-check your ingredient labels, especially if you’re serving someone with a gluten sensitivity.
Can I prep the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The soy-pineapple glaze comes together in seconds and can be mixed up to a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated in a sealed container until you’re ready to cook—bring it to room temperature before using for easy spreading.
What’s the best way to tell if my salmon is done?
Your salmon should flake easily with a fork and look opaque all the way through. The internal temperature should reach about 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part. Baking time can vary by thickness, so keep a close eye after the 18-minute mark.
Can I make this recipe with salmon fillets instead of a whole side?
Absolutely! Arrange the fillets in a single layer and simply spoon the glaze over each piece. Baking time may be a few minutes less since fillets often cook a bit faster—check for doneness after around 15 minutes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to shake up your weeknight dinners or impress friends with minimal fuss, Baked Pineapple Salmon is the answer. It’s lively, flavor-packed, and just the kind of meal that gets everyone swooning at the table. Don’t be surprised if this colorful, island-inspired dish becomes your new go-to favorite—give it a try and feel the tropical magic unfold!
Print
Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Pineapple Salmon recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory flavors to create a delicious and easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Asian-inspired salmon is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 1 side of salmon (about 2 to 2½ pounds)
Sauce:
- 1½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- ¼ cup pineapple juice
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare the salmon: Place the salmon skin-side down in the center of the baking sheet.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the salmon: Spoon or brush the sauce over the salmon. Add pineapple chunks around the salmon.
- Bake: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
- Optional broil: Broil for 2 minutes for a caramelized top.
- Rest and garnish: Let the salmon rest, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- For more flavor, marinate the salmon in the sauce for up to 30 minutes.
- This dish pairs well with jasmine rice, coconut rice, or stir-fried vegetables.
- Leftovers can be used in rice bowls or wraps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
