This Honey Pineapple Salmon is a tasty dish that combines sweet honey and juicy pineapple for a fun twist on fish. It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy nights!
Honestly, who can resist that sweet, caramelized glaze? I love serving it with rice to soak up every drop of that yummy sauce. It’s like a tropical vacation on your plate! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Choose fresh, wild-caught salmon if possible. It has a richer flavor than farmed salmon. If salmon isn’t available, you can use trout or even chicken breasts for a different take.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds best flavor, but canned pineapple chunks can work in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well, as the added juice can make the dish watery.
Honey: While I love the flavor of honey, maple syrup makes a great substitute for a different sweetness. For a vegan option, use agave nectar or coconut sugar as a sweetener.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a nice zing but can be skipped if you don’t have any on hand. Ground ginger can work too, just use less—about 1/4 teaspoon.
How Do I Get My Salmon to Cook Just Right?
Getting salmon perfectly cooked is key to this dish. The secret is to monitor the cooking time closely.
- Preheating your oven is crucial for an even cook.
- 12-15 minutes is usually enough, but check your salmon at the 12-min mark. It should flake easily with a fork when done.
- Consider using a meat thermometer; it should read 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
Letting it rest for a few minutes after taking it out helps, too. This retains the juices making it more tender!
Honey Pineapple Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or slices)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or cilantro leaves, chopped
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 12-15 minutes of cooking time. So you’re looking at roughly 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect option for a quick yet delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon cooks evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Whisk this mixture until it’s well blended.
3. Arrange the Salmon and Pineapple:
Put the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are evenly spaced. Now, arrange the pineapple chunks around the salmon, making sure to leave space for even cooking.
4. Brush on the Glaze:
Generously brush the honey-soy glaze over each salmon fillet and pineapple pieces. Don’t be shy—this glaze is what adds that delicious sweet and savory flavor!
5. Bake the Salmon:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let it bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the pineapple looks slightly caramelized.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh basil or cilantro on top. Serve with the roasted pineapple chunks and a side of fluffy white rice.
7. Enjoy!
Breathe in that sweet, savory aroma as you dive into this delightful Honey Pineapple Salmon. It’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking! Thaw it in the fridge overnight or use a quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’d like to make this recipe vegan or simply don’t have honey on hand, maple syrup or agave nectar work well as alternatives. Keep in mind that they may affect the overall flavor slightly but will still provide that sweet touch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon and pineapple in a warm oven or microwave gently, ensuring it stays moist. Add a splash of water to the container if microwaving to prevent drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or asparagus, alongside the salmon and pineapple. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking, and adjust the cooking time if necessary.
