Name: Honey Pineapple Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/2 cup pineapple juice; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Honey Pineapple Salmon is a deliciously sweet and savory dish featuring tender salmon fillets glazed with a flavorful honey and pineapple sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner, bursting with tropical flavors that will transport you to a sunny paradise with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a healthy option to serve on a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What I love most about this Honey Pineapple Salmon is how easy it is to make while still delivering incredible flavors. The glaze, made from a combination of pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger, adds a perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness. It’s a light and healthy dinner option, but it still feels indulgent with the rich flavors of the salmon paired with the tropical sauce. Plus, it’s a 25-minute meal from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights or when I just want something quick yet satisfying.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets

1/2 cup pineapple juice

1/4 cup honey

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon grated ginger

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, grated ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let the sauce cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat.

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.

Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

Brush each fillet generously with the honey-pineapple glaze, reserving a bit for serving.

Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.

Once cooked, drizzle the remaining glaze over the salmon fillets.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add Spice: If I want a spicier kick, I can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add some diced jalapeño to the glaze for an extra zing.

Grilled Version: For a smoky flavor, I can grill the salmon instead of baking it. Just brush the glaze on while grilling and finish with the reserved sauce after cooking.

No Soy Sauce: If I’m avoiding soy, I can substitute tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free or soy-free alternative.

Vegetarian Option: If I’m not in the mood for fish, I can substitute the salmon fillets with a thick tofu steak and follow the same glaze procedure.

Storage/Reheating

I can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When it’s time to reheat, I prefer to do so in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to keep the salmon from drying out. Alternatively, I can reheat it gently in a skillet with a little drizzle of olive oil on medium heat, making sure to keep it moist.

Related Recipes:

Honey Garlic Salmon Bites

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, I can absolutely use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw the fillets in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water before cooking. I’ll still follow the same baking instructions.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I prefer to make the glaze ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a week. I can also prep the salmon fillets by seasoning them and storing them in the fridge until I’m ready to cook. However, I recommend baking the salmon just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use a different fruit for the glaze?

While pineapple gives this dish its tropical flavor, I can swap it for other fruits like mango or orange juice if I want to experiment with different tastes. Just keep the other glaze ingredients the same.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The best way to check if the salmon is cooked is to use a fork and gently pull at the fish. If it flakes easily and looks opaque throughout, it’s done. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of the oven?

Yes, I can pan-sear the salmon fillets in a skillet with some olive oil on medium heat. I’ll cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, then brush the glaze on while the salmon finishes cooking.

Conclusion

Honey Pineapple Salmon is a perfect example of a dish that combines fresh, vibrant flavors with minimal effort. It’s quick to prepare, deliciously sweet and savory, and works for any night of the week. Whether I’m making it for a family dinner or a special meal, I know this dish will always impress. The tropical glaze pairs beautifully with the richness of the salmon, making this meal feel both satisfying and refreshing.

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