Baked Pineapple Salmon
This Baked Pineapple Salmon recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the richness of salmon with sweet pineapple and zesty sauces. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish can be prepared in just 20 minutes with minimal cleanup. Its vibrant taste and eye-catching presentation make it a standout at any dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be on your table in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in one pan, which means less time spent on cleanup!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, and pineapple creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is packed with protein and healthy fats, making this dish a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or alongside rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this delicious Baked Pineapple Salmon, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Nonstick aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the salmon and pineapple, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Nonstick aluminum foil: Makes cleanup easy by preventing food from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Whisk: Helps to quickly blend the sauce ingredients together for a smooth consistency.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 1/2 pounds side of salmon
- salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Pineapple Mixture
- 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
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 a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil for 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: Arrange Pineapple Slices
Lay out the 1 can pineapple slices underneath the salmon. This adds moisture and flavor during baking.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
2. 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
3. 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce
4. 3 garlic cloves minced
5. 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
6. 1/4 cup reserved pineapple juice
Pour this mixture over the salmon evenly.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through. If desired, broil for an additional 5 minutes to char the edges slightly.
Step 6: Garnish
Remove from oven and garnish with 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm with lime slices on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Dig in and savor every delicious bite of your Baked Pineapple Salmon!
How to Serve Baked Pineapple Salmon
Baked Pineapple Salmon makes for a delightful and colorful dish that can be served in various ways. Pair it with complementary sides and garnishes to enhance the overall dining experience.
With Fresh Salad
- Crisp Green Salad: A mix of romaine, spinach, and arugula with a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Thai Mango Salad: Sweet mango, cilantro, and lime dressing provide a tropical twist that complements the salmon.
On Rice
- Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice absorbs the flavors of the sweet chili sauce beautifully.
- Coconut Rice: Infuse your rice with coconut milk for a creamy texture that pairs well with the pineapple.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and crunch.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus offers a smoky flavor that balances the sweetness of the salmon.
Garnished with Lime
- Lime Wedges: Fresh lime juice over the salmon brightens up the flavors.
- Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds freshness and an aromatic touch.
How to Perfect Baked Pineapple Salmon
To ensure your Baked Pineapple Salmon turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and ripe pineapples will enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking time; salmon should be flaky but not dry.
- Broil for Extra Flavor: Broiling at the end caramelizes sugars in the sauce, adding a delicious crust.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain moisture.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices or herbs according to your preference for an extra kick.
- Keep It Simple: Sometimes less is more—don’t overwhelm with too many side dishes.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Pineapple Salmon
Serving Baked Pineapple Salmon alongside some great sides can elevate your meal. Here are some top choices:
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty flavor and chewy texture make quinoa an excellent base for this dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide comfort alongside the salmon.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach with garlic is nutritious and pairs well with rich salmon flavors.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a natural sweetness that complements baked pineapple nicely.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the tender fish.
- Cauliflower Rice: Light and low-carb, cauliflower rice is a great alternative while soaking up all the delicious sauce.
- Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in vinegar are cooling and refreshing against warm salmon.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Baked Pineapple Salmon, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for.
- Overcooking the salmon – Salmon should be flaky and moist, not dry. Keep an eye on cooking times to ensure a tender result.
- Neglecting seasoning – Proper seasoning enhances flavor. Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they’re crucial for making your dish delicious.
- Using canned pineapple without draining – Excess pineapple juice can make your dish soggy. Always drain the slices and reserve just enough juice for flavor.
- Ignoring the broiling step – Broiling adds a nice char and depth of flavor. Don’t skip this step if you want that beautiful finish!
- Not letting it rest before serving – Allowing the salmon to rest helps redistribute juices. This small step can elevate your dish significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for best quality.
Freezing Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Pineapple Salmon that may help you as you prepare this dish.
How do I know when Baked Pineapple Salmon is done?
Baked Pineapple Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh pineapple adds a bright flavor. Just slice it into rings or chunks before using.
What sides pair well with Baked Pineapple Salmon?
Consider serving with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Is Baked Pineapple Salmon healthy?
Absolutely! This dish provides lean protein from salmon and antioxidants from pineapple, making it nutritious and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Baked Pineapple Salmon is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. Its Thai-inspired elements offer a delightful twist on traditional salmon recipes. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or sides, making it perfect for any occasion!
Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Baked Pineapple Salmon is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines succulent salmon with the sweetness of pineapple, enhanced by a zesty sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy families. The one-pan preparation not only simplifies cooking but also ensures minimal cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones. With its mouthwatering flavors and stunning presentation, this dish is sure to impress at any dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds side of salmon
- 1 can pineapple slices (drained, reserve 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)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil.
- Place the salmon on the baking sheet and season both sides 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 the salmon evenly.
- Bake for around 15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily. Broil for an additional 5 minutes if desired.
- 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 of salmon with pineapple
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
