Baked Pineapple Salmon
This Baked Pineapple Salmon recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish can be made in just 20 minutes. The unique blend of ingredients not only enhances the taste but also ensures a health-conscious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Enjoy the ease of cooking with minimal clean-up while savoring this Thai-inspired seafood delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes needed from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- One-Pan Wonder: This recipe requires just one baking sheet, making clean-up a breeze after your meal.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet pineapple, zesty lemon juice, and savory chili sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or flake it over salads for a lighter lunch option.
Tools and Preparation
To create this scrumptious Baked Pineapple Salmon, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
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, ensuring it bakes evenly.
- Nonstick aluminum foil: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up hassle-free.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining sauces and seasonings effortlessly.
- Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly for uniform flavor distribution.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 1/2 pounds side of salmon
- salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Sauce
- 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 Garnishing
- 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 to ensure easy removal of the salmon after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Place your 2 1/2 pounds side of salmon on the prepared baking sheet. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Arrange Pineapple Slices
Evenly arrange the pineapple slices (drained) underneath the salmon. This will add moisture and flavor during baking.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a mixing 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. Reserve and add the 1/4 cup reserved pineapple juice
Pour this mixture evenly over the salmon.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the salmon is flaky and fully cooked. If desired, broil for an additional 5 minutes to achieve slightly charred edges.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven, then garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with lime slices on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious Baked Pineapple Salmon! This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Serve Baked Pineapple Salmon
Baked Pineapple Salmon is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Rice
- Jasmine Rice – Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice complements the sweet and savory notes of the salmon.
- Coconut Rice – Cooked with coconut milk, this rice adds a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the pineapple.
On a Salad
- Mixed Green Salad – Fresh greens topped with the baked salmon create a light and refreshing meal.
- Thai Mango Salad – This salad offers a sweet and tangy contrast that balances the richness of the fish.
Accompanied by Vegetables
- Roasted Asparagus – A simple side that adds a touch of elegance and crunch to your plate.
- Sautéed Spinach – Lightly seasoned spinach is nutritious and makes for a healthy side.
With Dipping Sauces
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Enhance the flavors by drizzling extra sweet chili sauce over the salmon before serving.
- Peanut Sauce – A creamy peanut sauce can add an exciting flavor profile to your dish.
How to Perfect Baked Pineapple Salmon
To achieve the best results with your Baked Pineapple Salmon, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh salmon and ripe pineapple will enhance the overall taste of your dish.
- Check for doneness – Use a fork to see if the salmon flakes easily, ensuring it’s cooked perfectly without being overdone.
- Marinate beforehand – Allowing the salmon to sit in the sauce for 30 minutes prior can infuse more flavor into the fish.
- Experiment with spices – Add spices like ginger or red pepper flakes for an extra kick in flavor.
- Adjust baking time for thickness – Thicker pieces of salmon may require additional cooking time, so monitor closely while baking.
- Broil for added texture – Broiling at the end gives your salmon a lovely charred finish that enhances its taste.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Pineapple Salmon
Pairing your Baked Pineapple Salmon with sides can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.
- Steamed Broccoli – Offers vibrant color and essential nutrients while balancing flavors with its mild taste.
- Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty grain that adds texture; mix it with herbs for added flavor.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the sweetness of the pineapple perfectly.
- Grilled Zucchini – Lightly grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor while keeping it healthy.
- Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that soaks up flavors from sauces, making it a great base for the dish.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and acidity, cutting through richness while enhancing textures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking baked pineapple salmon can be simple, but small mistakes can impact the flavor and texture. Here are some common errors to steer clear of.
- Skipping the seasoning: Always season both sides of the salmon with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
- Using fresh pineapple: Canned pineapple is recommended for this recipe as it provides a sweeter taste that pairs well with salmon.
- Overcooking the salmon: Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent dryness. Salmon should be flaky but not dry.
- Not letting it rest: Allow your baked pineapple salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain its juices.
- Ignoring garnishes: Fresh cilantro and lime slices enhance the dish’s flavors, so don’t skip them!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store baked pineapple salmon in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Allow the salmon to cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
- Baked pineapple salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about baked pineapple salmon that may help you out.
What is the best type of salmon for baking?
You can use any type of salmon, but sockeye or king salmon are particularly flavorful and firm for baking.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
While fresh pineapple can be used, canned is preferred for its sweetness and ease of preparation.
How do I know when my baked pineapple salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I customize this baked pineapple salmon recipe?
Absolutely! You can add other spices, like ginger or red pepper flakes, to enhance its flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Baked pineapple salmon is great for meal prep as it reheats well and pairs nicely with various side dishes.
Final Thoughts
Baked pineapple salmon is not just delicious but also versatile and quick to prepare. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors!
Baked Pineapple Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked Pineapple Salmon is a delightful and health-conscious dish that brings the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors to your table. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. The succulent salmon is baked over juicy pineapple slices, creating a mouthwatering combination that will impress your family and friends. With minimal clean-up required thanks to its one-pan preparation, you can enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle. This Thai-inspired seafood delight is not only quick to make but also packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds side of salmon
- 1 can pineapple slices (drained)
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnishing)
- Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil.
- Place the salmon on the baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange drained pineapple slices beneath the salmon for added moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, melted butter, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, and reserved pineapple juice. Pour over the salmon.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until flaky; broil for an additional 5 minutes if desired.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime slices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Thai-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of salmon with pineapple (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 355
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
