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Baked Pineapple Salmon

Baked Pineapple Salmon

Baked Pineapple Salmon is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The rich, tender salmon pairs beautifully with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, creating a dish that's as vibrant as it is delicious. The salmon is baked to perfection with a pineapple glaze, resulting in a juicy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s a healthy, easy-to-make dish that will impress anyone at the table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pineapple Marinade/Sauce:
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple cut into small chunks, or 1 can of pineapple chunks in juice, drained
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil for a tropical flavor
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for a healthier option
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger fresh
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a little kick
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • For the Salmon:
  • 4 salmon fillets 6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless
  • Olive oil for greasing the baking dish or drizzling over the salmon
  • Fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley, for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Pineapple:
  • If using fresh pineapple, peel and core it, then cut it into small chunks. You’ll need about 1 cup of fresh pineapple.
  • If you don’t have fresh pineapple, canned pineapple works well too. Drain the juice and use the pineapple chunks.
  • Blend the Marinade:
  • In a small bowl or blender, combine the fresh pineapple, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
  • Blend or stir until the mixture is smooth, and the pineapple breaks down into a chunky sauce. For a smoother marinade, you can blend the mixture entirely until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Season:
  • Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you prefer a little heat, mix in the red pepper flakes for a touch of spice. Set the marinade aside, and let it rest while you prepare the salmon.
  • Step 2: Preparing the Salmon Fillets
  • Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the salmon will cook through without drying out.
  • Prepare the Baking Dish:
  • Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking. Alternatively, you can line the dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
  • Season the Salmon:
  • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the marinade adhere better.
  • Season each fillet with a little salt and black pepper. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil or brush it on with a pastry brush to keep the fish moist as it bakes.
  • Place the Salmon in the Dish:
  • Arrange the fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Make sure there’s space between the fillets to ensure even cooking.
  • Step 3: Applying the Pineapple Marinade
  • Pour the Marinade:
  • Spoon or pour the prepared pineapple marinade over the salmon fillets. Use a brush or spoon to coat the salmon evenly with the sauce. For a stronger pineapple flavor, make sure the fillets are generously covered with the sauce.
  • Marinate:
  • If you have time, let the salmon sit in the marinade for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors. If you’re in a rush, you can skip this step and bake the salmon immediately, as the flavors will still come through during the cooking process.
  • Step 4: Baking the Salmon
  • Bake the Salmon:
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for about 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. You’ll know the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  • Check for Doneness:
  • If you prefer your salmon on the rarer side, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). The salmon will continue to cook slightly once removed from the oven due to residual heat.
  • Step 5: Serving the Baked Pineapple Salmon
  • Garnish:
  • Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Then, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for an added burst of flavor and color.
  • Serve with Lime Wedges:
  • Serve the salmon with fresh lime wedges on the side, allowing everyone to squeeze some lime juice over the fish for extra tang.
  • Pairing Suggestions:
  • Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad. Roasted or sautéed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans will complement the sweet and savory flavors of the salmon.
  • Wine: Serve with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the richness of the salmon and the sweetness of the pineapple marinade.

Notes

  • Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple offers a more vibrant, juicy flavor and texture. If using fresh pineapple, be sure to peel, core, and chop it into small chunks. You can also blend it to make a smoother marinade.
  • Canned Pineapple: If fresh pineapple isn’t available or you’re looking for convenience, canned pineapple works just as well. Just make sure to drain it well before using to avoid excess moisture that can thin out the marinade.

2. Adjusting Sweetness:

  • Sweetness Level: If you like a sweeter dish, feel free to add more honey or maple syrup to the marinade. On the other hand, if you prefer a more savory balance, reduce the sweetness or even omit it entirely.
  • Sweeteners: For a healthier twist, you can substitute honey with agave nectar, coconut sugar, or stevia (although the flavor profile will change slightly).

3. Cooking Time and Salmon Thickness:

  • Thickness of Salmon Fillets: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Thicker fillets may need 5-7 extra minutes of cooking time, while thinner fillets may cook more quickly.
  • Avoid Overcooking: Salmon is best when it’s moist and tender. Overcooking can lead to dryness. If you're unsure, check the fish at the 20-minute mark and adjust accordingly.
  • Internal Temperature: To be precise, the ideal internal temperature for cooked salmon is 145°F (63°C). Use a thermometer to ensure you get the perfect doneness without overcooking.

4. Using Pineapple Juice:

  • Pineapple Juice: If you want to enhance the pineapple flavor even further, add a small splash of pineapple juice (either from the can or freshly squeezed) to the marinade. This will give the salmon a more pronounced tropical flavor.

5. Marinating the Salmon:

  • Quick Marinating: If you're short on time, you can skip marinating and simply coat the salmon with the pineapple sauce before baking. Even without marinating, the flavors will still infuse during the baking process.
  • Longer Marination: If you have time, marinate the salmon for 15-30 minutes in the fridge. This allows the pineapple marinade to penetrate the fish more deeply, infusing it with sweetness and tang.

6. Broiling Option:

  • Broiling the Salmon: For a slightly crispy top, after baking, switch the oven to the broil setting for the last 3-5 minutes. This will give the salmon a caramelized finish without drying it out. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the fish.

7. Garnishing and Serving:

  • Garnish Ideas: Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or even basil can brighten the dish. A little toasted coconut or sesame seeds sprinkled on top also adds texture and flavor.
  • Serving with Lime: Don’t forget to serve the salmon with fresh lime wedges. A little extra squeeze of lime before serving will add a refreshing zest that complements the pineapple’s sweetness beautifully.

8. Customizing with Veggies:

  • Tropical Veggies: You can roast or sauté tropical vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or even plantains as side dishes to keep the tropical theme going.
  • Adding Greens: For a balanced meal, serve with sautéed spinach, kale, or arugula. Their slight bitterness contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the pineapple and salmon.

9. Variations for Dietary Needs:

  • Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as there are no grains or gluten-containing ingredients in the marinade or fish.
  • Dairy-Free: If you’re looking to make the dish dairy-free, it already fits this need. Just ensure your marinade ingredients are dairy-free (most honey and soy sauces are, but always double-check).
  • Low-Carb: This recipe is naturally low-carb as well, making it great for keto or low-carb diets.