The Best Honey Glazed Pineapple Salmon Recipe for Flavor Lovers

My weekend dinner game changed when I discovered this honey glazed pineapple salmon that combines sweet and savory elements perfectly.

Sweet tropical notes dance alongside rich salmon fillets in an unexpected culinary partnership.

Pacific Northwest salmon becomes magical with a golden honey glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking.

Pineapple chunks add bright, tangy bursts of flavor that complement the fish’s natural richness.

Weeknight meals deserve something special, and this recipe delivers incredible taste without complicated techniques.

Each bite promises a delightful blend of marine and fruity goodness that will make you feel like a gourmet chef.

Dive into this simple yet impressive dish that turns an ordinary evening into a memorable dining experience.

What Makes Honey Glazed Pineapple Salmon Shine

• Quick Weeknight Winner: Combines simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, making it an ideal solution for busy families seeking a delicious and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: Blends sweet honey, tangy pineapple, and rich salmon into a harmonious taste experience that delights the palate with its perfect balance of tropical and savory notes.
• Healthy Indulgence: Packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and natural sweetness, this recipe offers a nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste or satisfaction.

Ingredients for Pineapple Glazed Salmon

• Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught or farm-raised fillet.
• Pineapple: Sweet, juicy rings for a tropical touch.

• Pineapple Juice, Honey: Natural sweeteners that create a glossy glaze.
• Butter, Sesame Oil: Rich ingredients for depth of flavor.

• Lemon Juice: Bright, tangy citrus element.
• Brown Sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness.
• Garlic: Aromatic and savory seasoning.
• Salt: Balances and highlights other flavors.

• Fresh Mint: Bright, aromatic herb for finishing touch.

Instructions for Cooking Pineapple Salmon

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400°F, ensuring it’s fully heated before you start cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Gently pat the salmon dry with paper towels and slice it into two perfectly even pieces.

Step 3: Create the Pineapple Base

Spread pineapple rings across a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, creating a sweet foundation for the salmon.

Step 4: Craft the Flavor Explosion

• Pineapple juice
• Butter
• Sesame oil
• Lemon juice
• Honey
• Brown sugar
• Minced garlic
• Salt

Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, glossy mixture.

Step 5: Marinate and Chill

Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each piece is generously coated.

Let the salmon soak up the flavors in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and cook for 40 minutes.

The salmon is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Allow the salmon to rest for 10 minutes after baking.

Sprinkle fresh mint leaves on top for a burst of brightness and aroma.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salmon to serving plates and savor the delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

Tips to Nail Honey Pineapple Salmon

• Use paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispy exterior and better marinade absorption.
• Let salmon sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, but avoid exceeding 30 minutes to prevent the fish from becoming too acidic or mushy.
• Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 145°F, preventing overcooking and maintaining a tender texture.
• Adjust honey and brown sugar quantities to suit personal taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
• Gently baste salmon with marinade during baking to enhance moisture and distribute flavors evenly across the fish.

Reheating and Storing Pineapple Salmon Leftovers

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days.
• Warm salmon at 275°F for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying and maintain moisture.
• Heat salmon in short 30-second intervals, checking temperature and preventing overcooking to preserve delicate texture.
• Add a splash of pineapple juice or water when reheating to help restore original juiciness and prevent salmon from becoming tough.

Perfect Pairings for Pineapple Salmon

• Pair Tropical White Wine: Select a crisp, slightly sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer to complement the honey and pineapple flavors, enhancing the salmon's richness.
• Serve Coconut Rice Side: Create a creamy coconut rice accompaniment that mirrors the tropical notes of the dish, balancing the sweet and savory salmon glaze.
• Match Citrus Salad: Prepare a light citrus salad with orange and lime segments to cut through the salmon's richness and add a refreshing contrast to the sweet marinade.
• Recommend Sparkling Water: Pour a chilled sparkling water with a squeeze of lime to cleanse the palate and highlight the dish's bright, tropical essence.

Tasty Variations on Pineapple Glazed Salmon

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace sesame oil with olive oil and use gluten-free soy sauce for marinade to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Sodium Variation: Reduce salt content by using low-sodium soy sauce and omitting added salt, perfect for heart-healthy diets.
• Spicy Kick Version: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the marinade for those who enjoy a fiery flavor profile.
• Vegan Alternative: Substitute salmon with firm tofu or tempeh, using same marinade and baking technique for plant-based protein option.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, thaw frozen salmon completely in the refrigerator before using. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better caramelization.

• What if I don't have sesame oil?

You can substitute with olive oil or vegetable oil. The sesame oil adds a nutty flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

• How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.

• Is it necessary to marinate the salmon?

Marinating helps infuse flavor and keeps the salmon moist. If you’re short on time, you can brush the marinade on just before baking, though the flavor will be less intense.

Honey Glazed Pineapple Salmon Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Golden fillets of honey glazed pineapple salmon dance with tropical sweetness and rich marine flavors. Culinary magic emerges when island-inspired ingredients meld perfectly, giving you a mouthwatering dinner that celebrates fresh, zesty combinations.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (3-pound) salmon fillet, cut in half
• 1 (14-ounce) can pineapple tidbits or rings, cut into smaller pieces

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 and 1/2 tablespoons honey
• 1 to 2 large garlic cloves, minced

Spices and Garnish:

• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
• 3 to 4 fresh mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Carefully dry the salmon fillets with paper towels, ensuring a clean surface for optimal seasoning absorption.
2. Gently slice the salmon into two symmetrical portions, promoting even cooking and elegant presentation.
3. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for easy cleanup.
4. Artfully arrange pineapple rings across the lined baking sheet, creating a vibrant tropical base for the salmon.
5. Position the salmon fillets precisely atop the pineapple rings, allowing for maximum flavor infusion.
6. Craft a luxurious marinade by whisking together pineapple juice, melted butter, fragrant sesame oil, zesty lemon juice, golden honey, rich brown sugar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
7. Lovingly drench the salmon with the prepared marinade, ensuring complete coverage and deep flavor penetration.
8. Refrigerate the marinated salmon for 15-30 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld and intensify their taste profile.
9. Preheat the oven to 400°F, creating an ideal cooking environment for the delicate fish.
10. Transfer the marinated salmon to the preheated oven, baking until the fish reaches a perfect internal temperature of 145°F.
11. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 10 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute.
12. Garnish with freshly chopped mint leaves, adding a bright, aromatic finishing touch to the dish.

Notes

• Check salmon thickness to ensure even cooking, thinner pieces might need less baking time.
• Use fresh pineapple rings for maximum flavor and natural sweetness compared to canned versions.
• Experiment with different honey varieties like wildflower or clover to subtly change the glaze profile.
• Substitute salmon with arctic char or trout for a similar texture and omega-3 rich alternative.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg