Baked Pineapple Salmon

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If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful salmon recipe, Baked Pineapple Salmon is the perfect dish to try. Inspired by Thai cuisine, this one-pan meal is a fantastic way to enjoy the delicate, buttery texture of salmon with a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly balances the flavors. The combination of sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, fresh garlic, and pineapple creates an irresistible caramelized coating on the salmon while keeping it tender and juicy. Best of all, this dish is ready in just 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a special occasion dinner.

With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this salmon recipe is an absolute game-changer. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is easy to make and will impress anyone who tries it. Plus, it’s packed with healthy omega-3s, protein, and fresh ingredients, ensuring a meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making this Thai-inspired baked pineapple salmon, from ingredient selection to step-by-step instructions, tips, serving suggestions, and storage recommendations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish. ✔ One-Pan Recipe: Minimal dishes, making cleanup effortless. ✔ Sweet & Savory: The combination of pineapple, sweet chili sauce, and hoisin creates an irresistible glaze. ✔ Healthy & Nutritious: High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a wholesome choice. ✔ Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving guests at a dinner party. ✔ Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your taste by adjusting the spice levels or adding different seasonings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon:

• 2 ½ pounds side of salmon (skin-on or skinless)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can pineapple slices (drained, reserve ¼ cup of juice)

For the Pineapple Glaze:

• ½ cup sweet chili sauce (adds heat and sweetness)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (adds richness and enhances the sauce)
• 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce (adds depth and a touch of umami)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (brightens the flavors)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (adds robust garlic flavor)

For Garnish & Serving:

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (for a fresh herbal finish)
• Lime slices for serving (adds extra citrus zing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

1. Place the side of salmon on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Season both sides of the salmon with salt and black pepper.
3. Arrange the pineapple slices underneath the salmon to allow the flavors to infuse during baking.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • Sweet chili sauce
   • Melted butter
   • Hoisin sauce
   • Minced garlic
   • Fresh lemon juice
   • Reserved pineapple juice
2. Pour the mixture over the salmon, ensuring an even coating.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

1. Bake for 15 minutes or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
2. For extra caramelization, broil the salmon for the last 5 minutes until the edges are slightly charred.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
2. Serve with lime slices on the side for a citrusy finish.
3. Enjoy your Thai-inspired Baked Pineapple Salmon!

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Pineapple Salmon

🔥 Use Pineapple Slices, Not Chunks – Slices help infuse the salmon with flavor while keeping serving neat and easy.

🐟 Ensure Even Cooking – If your salmon fillet is too long, cut the end off and place it alongside so it bakes evenly.

🍋 Boost the Flavor – For extra depth, drizzle a little soy sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes before baking.

🌿 Customize the Garnish – Swap cilantro for fresh basil or green onions for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Pineapple Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:

🥦 Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.

🍚 Steamed Rice – White jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice all work well.

🥗 Light Salad – A fresh cucumber or mango salad complements the sweetness of the salmon.

🥔 Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A creamy side that balances the sweet and savory flavors.

Storage & Reheating

To Store:

• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over low heat for a few minutes.

Freezing:

• You can freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly and store in an airtight freezer-safe container.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 566 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Protein: 68g
• Fat: 44g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 29mg
• Sodium: 575mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g

Final Thoughts

This Baked Pineapple Salmon is a foolproof recipe that combines simplicity with gourmet flavors. The sweet and tangy pineapple glaze, paired with the tender, flaky salmon, makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to impress!

So, fire up your oven and give this easy one-pan salmon recipe a try. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and the delicious, restaurant-quality flavors it delivers.

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