Baked Pineapple Salmon
This Baked Pineapple Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with the sweet and tangy notes of pineapple. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also offers a burst of tropical taste that everyone will enjoy. With just one pan required, cleanup is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those hectic evenings.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal clean-up is required as everything cooks on one baking sheet.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and pineapple creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the salmon.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, noodles, or salad for a complete meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make Baked Pineapple Salmon, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and ensures great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick aluminum foil
- Baking sheet
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick aluminum foil: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space for cooking the salmon and pineapple evenly.
- Small bowl: Ideal for mixing sauces without creating too much mess.
- Whisk: Ensures all ingredients are well-combined for a smooth glaze.
Ingredients
For this Baked Pineapple Salmon, gather the following ingredients:
For the Salmon
- 2 1/2 pounds side of salmon
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 can pineapple slices (drained and reserve 1/4 cup of juice)
For the Sauce
- 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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (roughly chopped)
- Lime slices (for serving)
How to Make Baked Pineapple Salmon
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Place the 2 1/2 pounds side of salmon on the lined baking sheet. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Add Pineapple Slices
Arrange the 1 can pineapple slices underneath the salmon. This will infuse the fish with flavor as it bakes.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
– 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
– 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 3 garlic cloves (minced)
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Reserve and add in 1/4 cup reserved pineapple juice
Pour this mixture over the salmon evenly.
Step 5: Bake It
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through. For an extra touch, broil for an additional 5 minutes until edges are lightly charred.
Step 6: Garnish
Once done, garnish with 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot with lime slices for an added zesty flavor. Enjoy your delicious Baked Pineapple Salmon!
How to Serve Baked Pineapple Salmon
Baked Pineapple Salmon is a delightful dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Pair with Fresh Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch and pairs well with the sweet flavors of salmon.
- Grilled Asparagus – The smoky taste of grilled asparagus complements the baked pineapple beautifully.
Serve with Rice
- Coconut Rice – This creamy rice enhances the tropical notes of the pineapple, making it a perfect match for your baked salmon.
- Jasmine Rice – Fluffy jasmine rice provides a fragrant base that soaks up the delicious sauce from the salmon.
Add a Salad
- Thai Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad with lime dressing cuts through the richness of the dish.
- Mixed Greens Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances out the meal nicely.
How to Perfect Baked Pineapple Salmon
To ensure your Baked Pineapple Salmon turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Choose Fresh Salmon – Always opt for fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook – Bake until just flaky; overcooking can dry out the fish and diminish its flavor.
- Use Nonstick Foil – Lining your baking sheet with nonstick foil makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- Experiment with Marinades – Try adding different ingredients to your marinade for unique flavor variations.
- Let it Rest – Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain moisture.
- Garnish Generously – Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten up the dish visually and add extra flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Pineapple Salmon
Finding the right side dishes can enhance your Baked Pineapple Salmon experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and texture, complementing the salmon beautifully.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that contrasts nicely with the fish.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the tropical flavors of pineapple.
- Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach brings vibrant color and nutrients to your plate without overpowering other flavors.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and crunch that works well alongside baked salmon.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can offer a refreshing crunch while balancing out the richness of your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Baked Pineapple Salmon experience. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the seasoning: Always season your salmon with salt and pepper. This enhances the overall flavor of the fish.
- Overcooking the salmon: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Salmon should be flaky but moist, so remove it from the oven as soon as it’s done.
- Using fresh pineapple: While fresh pineapple is great, canned slices are recommended for this recipe as they add sweetness and moisture.
- Not preheating the oven: Preheating ensures even cooking. Make sure your oven reaches 375°F before placing the salmon inside.
- Ignoring garnishes: Fresh cilantro and lime slices add a burst of flavor. Don’t skip these for a complete dish!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Baked Pineapple Salmon in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently to avoid drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions about making Baked Pineapple Salmon, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
How do I know when my salmon is cooked?
You can tell when salmon is done if it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque throughout.
Can I use other types of fish?
Yes! You can substitute salmon with other firm fish like trout or cod; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is Baked Pineapple Salmon healthy?
Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein and healthy fats while being low in carbs, making it a nutritious choice.
What should I serve with Baked Pineapple Salmon?
Pair it with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that complements the flavors of the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Pineapple Salmon recipe is not only quick but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adjusting the sauces or adding different spices. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Give it a try today!
Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Baked Pineapple Salmon is a quick and delightful dish that brings together the rich, savory taste of salmon with the sweet and tangy notes of pineapple. Ready in just 20 minutes, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at special occasions. The glaze made from sweet chili sauce and hoisin adds an irresistible burst of flavor, making every bite a tropical escape. Easy to prepare and clean up, this healthy recipe is packed with protein and healthy fats, ensuring a delicious dish that fits seamlessly into your balanced diet.
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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil.
- Place the salmon on the baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange pineapple slices beneath the salmon to infuse flavor.
- In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, melted butter, hoisin sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and reserved pineapple juice. Pour over the salmon.
- Bake for about 15 minutes until the salmon is flaky; broil for an extra 5 minutes for a charred finish.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4 ounces (113g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
