Baked Pineapple Salmon
This Baked Pineapple Salmon recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. In just 20 minutes, you can create a dish that impresses family and friends alike. The combination of juicy pineapple and tender salmon brings a unique twist to your table, ensuring everyone enjoys a healthy yet flavorful meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This recipe requires minimal prep time and cooks in just 15 minutes.
- Flavorful Fusion – The sweet chili sauce and pineapple create a deliciously tangy glaze that elevates the salmon.
- One-Pan Wonder – With everything cooked on one sheet, cleanup is simple and hassle-free.
- Versatile Serving Options – Serve with lime slices for an extra zing, or pair with rice or veggies for a complete meal.
- Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with protein, this dish is a great option for health-conscious eaters.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will allow you to focus on creating your delicious Baked Pineapple Salmon.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Nonstick aluminum foil
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet – A sturdy surface for even baking ensures the salmon cooks perfectly.
- Nonstick aluminum foil – Makes cleanup easy by preventing sticking and allows for quick removal of the salmon.
- Small mixing bowl – Ideal for combining sauces without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 1/2 pounds side of salmon
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Pineapple Glaze
- 1 can pineapple slices (drained and reserve 1/4 cup of juice)
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (roughly chopped)
For Serving
- Lime slices
How to Make Baked Pineapple Salmon
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F | 190°C. Line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Place the 2 1/2 pounds side of salmon on the prepared baking sheet. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Add Pineapple Slices
Arrange the pineapple slices underneath the salmon. This helps infuse flavor while keeping the fish moist.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
2. 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
3. 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce
4. 3 minced garlic cloves
5. 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
6. The reserved 1/4 cup pineapple juice
Pour this mixture evenly over the salmon.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through. Optionally, broil for an additional 5 minutes for charred edges.
Step 6: Garnish
Once cooked, garnish with 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately with lime slices on the side for added zest.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious Baked Pineapple Salmon! Enjoy this satisfying meal that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
How to Serve Baked Pineapple Salmon
Baked Pineapple Salmon is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
Fresh Salad
- Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch.
- Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens with lemon dressing complements the flavors beautifully.
Rice Options
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, this rice absorbs the delicious juices from the salmon.
- Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut rice adds a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with pineapple.
Flavorful Sauces
- Soy Sauce Drizzle: A splash of soy sauce enhances the umami flavor of the baked salmon.
- Sriracha Sauce: For those who like it spicy, a drizzle of Sriracha can elevate the dish.
Garnishes
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for added flavor and color.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds offer a nutty crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender salmon.
How to Perfect Baked Pineapple Salmon
To achieve the best results when making Baked Pineapple Salmon, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh salmon and ingredients for optimal flavor.
- Preheat Your Oven Properly: Ensure your oven reaches 375°F before baking for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your salmon; it should be flaky but not dry.
- Marinate if Possible: Letting the salmon sit in the marinade for 30 minutes can intensify flavors.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or spices as toppings for extra texture and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Pineapple Salmon
Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your Baked Pineapple Salmon meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side.
- Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious choice that adds color and crunch to your plate.
- Quinoa Salad: This protein-rich grain salad can be mixed with veggies and herbs for freshness.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus offers a nice contrast in texture.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a tangy balance that complements the sweetness of the salmon.
- Grilled Zucchini: Sliced zucchini grilled to perfection makes for a healthy and tasty addition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Baked Pineapple Salmon, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Overcooking the salmon: Salmon should be flaky yet moist. Monitor the cooking time closely and check for doneness at 15 minutes.
- Using canned pineapple without draining: Excess liquid can make the dish watery. Always drain the pineapple and reserve a bit of juice for flavor.
- Skipping seasoning: Salmon benefits from seasoning. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper on both sides before baking for enhanced taste.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect cooking times and texture. Ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F | 190°C before placing the salmon inside.
- Ignoring fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs like cilantro elevate the dish’s flavor. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for a better-tasting meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for best taste and safety.
Freezing Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or reserved pineapple juice to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Pineapple Salmon that might help you perfect your dish.
What does Baked Pineapple Salmon taste like?
Baked Pineapple Salmon features a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, with tropical pineapple complementing the rich taste of salmon.
How long does it take to prepare Baked Pineapple Salmon?
Preparation time is just 5 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes of baking time, making it a quick meal option!
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, using fresh pineapple adds vibrant flavor. Just slice it into rings and follow the same steps as with canned.
Is Baked Pineapple Salmon healthy?
Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein and healthy fats while being relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a nutritious choice.
What side dishes pair well with Baked Pineapple Salmon?
Consider serving this dish with rice or quinoa and steamed vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors well.
Final Thoughts
Baked Pineapple Salmon is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different herbs or spices based on your preferences. This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, so give it a try!
Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x
Description
Baked Pineapple Salmon is a delightful and flavorful dish that seamlessly combines sweet and savory elements, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. In just 20 minutes, this easy-to-follow recipe offers a tropical twist with juicy pineapple and tender salmon, ensuring a healthy meal that everyone will love. The sweet chili sauce adds a tangy glaze that elevates the dish, making it an impressive centerpiece on your table. Serve it with lime slices for an extra burst of flavor or alongside rice and vegetables to create a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds side of salmon
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 can pineapple slices (drained, reserve 1/4 cup juice)
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Lime slices (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil.
- Place salmon on the baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange pineapple slices under the salmon to infuse moisture.
- In a bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, melted butter, hoisin sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and reserved pineapple juice. Pour over salmon.
- Bake for about 15 minutes until salmon is flaky; broil for an additional 5 minutes for charred edges if desired.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with lime slices.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
