Pineapple Glazed Salmon Fillets

The first time I made this pineapple glazed salmon, my kitchen smelled like a tropical vacation in the middle of February. The sweet and tangy aroma filled every corner, and I knew this was going to become a regular rotation. Now whenever I need a dinner that feels special but comes together quickly, this is the recipe I reach for.

I served this at a small dinner party last spring when my friend Sarah was visiting from out of town. She took one bite and actually put her fork down to ask me for the recipe right then. Thats when I knew this salmon wasnt just good, it was the kind of meal that makes people remember the evening.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: Fresh, wild-caught salmon gives the best flavor and texture, skin on helps keep the fish moist during baking
• Pineapple juice: Use 100% juice without added sugar for the most natural tropical sweetness
• Soy sauce: This adds the perfect salty depth and that gorgeous golden color to the glaze
• Honey or maple syrup: Just enough to balance the tanginess and help the glaze caramelize beautifully
• Rice vinegar: A subtle acidity that cuts through the richness and brightens every bite
• Fresh garlic and ginger: These aromatics are absolutely non-negotiable for that authentic Asian-inspired depth
• Cornstarch: This little trick transforms the thin sauce into a glossy, coating-worthy glaze
• Fresh pineapple: Adding raw pineapple on top at the end creates this incredible fresh, sweet contrast

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

Season the salmon:

Pat the fillets completely dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Start the glaze magic:

Combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan over medium heat.

Thicken it up:

Once the mixture simmers, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon.

First coating:

Brush half the glaze over the salmon fillets arranged skin-side down on your prepared baking sheet.

Bake to perfection:

Cook for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is just opaque throughout.

Final touches:

Remove from oven, brush with remaining glaze, and top with fresh diced pineapple and herbs.

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Last summer I made this for a casual Tuesday night dinner, and my husband said it tasted like something from a high-end restaurant. We sat on the back porch watching the sunset, and I remember thinking this is exactly why I love cooking.

Perfect Sides To Serve

Fluffy jasmine rice is my go-to because it soaks up every drop of that incredible glaze. A crisp cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing cuts through the richness beautifully.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I swap in mango juice when pineapple isnt in season, and it brings this lovely floral sweetness. For a spicy version, a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce in the glaze creates this amazing sweet heat.

Storage And Reheating

Leftovers keep beautifully for up to two days in the refrigerator, though the glaze will thicken when cold. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave until just warmed through.

• The glaze separates slightly when reheated, so give it a quick stir before serving
• Never reheat salmon more than once or it becomes dry and loses its delicate texture
• For best results, bring the salmon to room temperature for 15 minutes before reheating

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Theres something so satisfying about a recipe that looks impressive but comes together in under 35 minutes. This salmon has become my go-to for those nights when I want dinner to feel special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of salmon works best for this dish?

Fresh or thawed wild-caught salmon fillets with skin on or off can be used depending on preference. Firm fillets hold up well under the glaze.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes. Simply replace regular soy sauce with tamari to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

→ How do I achieve a thick pineapple glaze?

Simmer the pineapple juice mixture with honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and ginger, then stir in cornstarch mixed with water and cook until the glaze thickens.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with this salmon?

Steamed jasmine rice, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables complement the sweet and savory glaze nicely.

→ Can I add a spicy element to the glaze?

Yes, adding a pinch of chili flakes during glaze preparation adds a pleasant spicy kick.

→ Is it possible to substitute pineapple for other fruits?

Absolutely, mango or orange can be used for a different fruity twist while maintaining the sweet tangy profile.