If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a hint of spice, look no further than this Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe. It’s a tropical-inspired delight where tender salmon fillets are bathed in a luscious pineapple marinade, then baked to flaky perfection. The vibrant flavors of fresh pineapple, garlic, and ginger come together to create a meal that feels indulgent yet incredibly simple to prepare — a true showstopper for weeknights or special dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the juicy pineapple chunks that add sweetness, to the robust garlic and zingy ginger, every element makes this dish unforgettable.
- Salmon fillet, 1 ½ pounds: Choose skin-on or skinless depending on your preference for a moist and flaky center.
- Pineapple chunks, 1 cup: Fresh is best for brightness, but canned and well-drained works wonderfully too.
- Pineapple juice, ¼ cup: Intensifies the tropical notes in the marinade for added sweetness and moisture.
- Soy sauce, 3 tablespoons: Adds a savory umami depth that perfectly balances the pineapple’s sweetness.
- Honey, 2 tablespoons: Brings natural sweetness and helps caramelize the top when baked.
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon: Keeps the salmon juicy and adds a subtle richness.
- Garlic, 2 cloves minced: Lends a sharp, aromatic foundation that lifts all other flavors.
- Fresh ginger, 1 teaspoon grated: Provides a gentle warmth and fresh zing, essential for that Asian-inspired twist.
- Crushed red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon (optional): For those who love a little kick with their sweetness.
- Green onions, 2 sliced: Garnish that adds color and a mild onion bite.
- Salt and pepper: To season and bring out all the natural flavors.
- Lime wedges and chopped cilantro: Bright garnishes that finish the dish with zesty freshness and herbal notes.
How to Make Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This marinade is the heart of your dish, delivering a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and mildly spicy flavors that will infuse every bite of salmon.
Step 2: Prep the Salmon
Place your salmon fillet on a lined baking sheet — parchment or foil works great for easy cleanup. Season it generously with salt and pepper to enhance its natural taste. If you have time, let the salmon sit in the marinade for 15 to 30 minutes to soak up the flavors even more deeply.
Step 3: Add Pineapple and Pour Marinade
Scatter the pineapple chunks evenly around the salmon right on the baking sheet. Then pour the marinade over everything, making sure the salmon is well-coated. This step ensures the salmon stays juicy and the pineapple softens slightly as it bakes, blending beautifully together.
Step 4: Bake and Caramelize
Bake your salmon in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque inside. For an irresistible golden finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes — this caramelization adds delightful texture and a touch of smoky sweetness.
Step 5: Final Touch and Serve
Remove the salmon from the oven and spoon the flavorful pan juices over the top for extra moistness. Then garnish with fresh green onions, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges to bring in those fresh pops of color and citrus brightness.
How to Serve Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges not only jazzes up the plate visually but also adds complex herbal and zesty notes that brighten up the luscious salmon. Don’t skip the lime — a squeeze just before eating elevates the entire experience.
Side Dishes
This Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe shines when paired with simple sides that soak up all those tropical juices. Think steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a light and wholesome accompaniment, or go for roasted vegetables like asparagus or sweet potatoes to add hearty earthiness and color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve your salmon over a bed of coconut rice or alongside a crisp mango salad for an extra tropical vibe. You can also arrange the pineapple chunks and salmon artistically on a platter and drizzle with extra marinade for a stunning centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover baked pineapple salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making the next day’s meal just as enjoyable. Make sure to include the pineapple chunks and some pan juices to keep the salmon moist.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe for later, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze the salmon separate from the pineapple chunks and add them fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the salmon in a low oven set to 275°F (135°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes or until warmed through to preserve its moisture and texture. Avoid the microwave to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of pineapple juice or water before reheating helps keep it juicy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before marinating and baking. This helps the flavors penetrate well and ensures even cooking.
Is canned pineapple good for the marinade?
Yes, well-drained canned pineapple chunks work quite well if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to drain any excess syrup to prevent the dish from becoming too sweet.
Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Definitely. Maple syrup, agave nectar, or even brown sugar are excellent alternatives that will still give you that lovely caramelization and balanced sweetness.
How spicy is the recipe with red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the pineapple. You can easily omit or reduce the amount to suit your taste preferences.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tamari or soy sauce, this Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe is a recipe I love sharing because it combines an effortless cooking method with a wonderful burst of tropical flavor that feels special without the fuss. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, it’s guaranteed to become a treasured favorite. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your go-to salmon dish!
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Baked Pineapple Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Pineapple Salmon recipe combines tender, flaky salmon with a sweet and tangy pineapple marinade infused with ginger, garlic, and a hint of spice. Perfectly baked to caramelized perfection, this dish is easy to prepare and brings tropical Asian-inspired flavors to your table, making it ideal for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon and Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds salmon fillet (skin-on or skinless)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- ¼ cup pineapple juice
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Lime wedges
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, creating a fragrant and flavorful marinade.
- Season Salmon: Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet. Season it evenly with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
- Apply Marinade and Pineapple: Pour the prepared marinade over the salmon, making sure it’s well coated. Scatter the pineapple chunks around the salmon to infuse sweetness and tang.
- Bake Salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is fully cooked through, absorbing the tropical marinade.
- Broil (Optional): For an extra caramelized finish, broil the salmon for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, closely watching to prevent burning.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the salmon from the oven. Spoon the pan juices over the top for added moisture and flavor. Garnish with sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges before serving.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the salmon in the pineapple-soy sauce mixture for 15 to 30 minutes before baking.
- Serve alongside steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables to make a balanced and complete meal.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a different but still delicious sweetness and to make it vegan-friendly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American
