This Honey Pineapple Salmon is a tasty dish that combines sweet honey and juicy pineapple with flaky salmon. It’s quick to make and brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table!
Cooking this dish is a fun way to impress friends or family. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that tastes like a tropical vacation? 🌴 I love serving it with rice or a fresh salad!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. If fresh isn’t available, frozen salmon works just fine! Thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results. For a lighter option, you could use chicken breast, though cooking times will vary.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks add sweetness and juiciness. If fresh is hard to find, canned pineapple chunks in juice can be used. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Honey: Honey provides a lovely sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup or agave syrup would work as great substitutes. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds depth. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead. Low-sodium soy sauce is also a good choice for those watching their salt intake!
How Do I Get My Salmon Cooked Just Right?
Cooking salmon perfectly can be a bit tricky, but with these steps, you’ll nail it! First, preheat your oven properly to ensure even cooking. Place the salmon on a lined baking tray to prevent sticking!
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark. It should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Baste halfway through with the reserved honey-soy mixture. This keeps the salmon moist and enhances the flavor.
Remember, different ovens may vary in cooking times, so keep an eye on your salmon to avoid overcooking! Enjoy your meal knowing you’ve got it just perfectly done!
How to Make Honey Pineapple Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skin removed
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (plus extra slices for serving)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp fresh green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional, for serving)
- Asparagus spears (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 12-15 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at a quick and enjoyable 30-minute cooking time, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. This will help prevent the salmon and pineapple from sticking and make cleanup easier!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re nicely blended!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking tray. Arrange pineapple slices around and even under the salmon. This will add extra flavor as it bakes!
4. Add the Marinade:
Pour half of that delicious honey-soy mixture over the salmon and the pineapple slices. Save the other half for later so it can baste the salmon during baking.
5. Bake the Salmon:
Put the tray in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Your salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and looks cooked through. Remember to check it at the 12-minute mark!
6. Baste for Extra Flavor:
After about 7 minutes of baking, pull the salmon out and use the reserved honey-soy sauce to baste the top. This will keep the salmon tasty and moist!
7. Optional Asparagus:
If you want to add some green, toss in asparagus spears to the baking tray for the last 10 minutes of cooking. They’ll roast nicely while the salmon finishes up!
8. Garnish and Serve:
When everything is cooked, take the salmon out of the oven and garnish it with chopped green onions and lemon slices for a delightful touch. Serve it warm along with the tasty roasted pineapple. Enjoy your sweet and savory Honey Pineapple Salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging the sealed package in cold water for about an hour.
Can I Substitute the Honey?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a different sweetness or a vegan option, maple syrup or agave syrup works great. Keep in mind that these substitutes will slightly change the flavor profile.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in the microwave or a skillet over low heat to warm it gently. Adding a splash of water or broth can help prevent it from drying out.
How to Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
For a low-carb version, skip the honey or use a sugar-free sweetener. Serve the salmon with leafy greens or steamed vegetables instead of rice for a healthy, low-carb meal!
