Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Pineapple Salmon combines the rich, flaky texture of salmon with the sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple for a tropical-inspired dish that’s both healthy and delicious. The pineapple glaze enhances the natural flavor of the fish, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s simple to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh salmon filletspineapple slices (fresh or canned)pineapple juicesoy saucesesame oilgarlic (minced)ginger (grated)honey or brown sugarscallions (optional for garnish)lime or lemon (optional for serving)red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper.

In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and honey or brown sugar to create the marinade.

Place the salmon fillets in the prepared dish and pour the marinade over them.

Top each fillet with pineapple slices and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon.

Uncover and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to caramelize the top.

Garnish with chopped scallions and a squeeze of lime or lemon before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Broiling time: 2-3 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a richer flavor.

Add bell peppers or snap peas for a complete one-pan meal.

Swap salmon for cod or tilapia if preferred.

Add crushed macadamia nuts on top for a tropical crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave gently in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before marinating.

Is canned pineapple okay?

Yes, canned pineapple in juice (not syrup) works well for this recipe.

Can I grill this instead of baking?

Absolutely, grill over medium heat for about 6 minutes per side.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

Is this dish spicy?

Only if you add red pepper flakes—adjust to your heat preference.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes, you can marinate the salmon and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use other fish?

Yes, any firm, flaky fish will work, though cooking times may vary.

Is it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep it gluten-free.

What sides go well with this?

Serve with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Baked Pineapple Salmon is a flavorful and nutritious dish that brings tropical flair to your dinner table. With its sweet and savory glaze, minimal prep time, and easy cleanup, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.