Pineapple Glazed Salmon is a bright and tasty dish that brings together the sweet, tropical flavor of pineapple and the rich, flaky texture of salmon. The glaze is sticky and shiny, giving the salmon a beautiful caramelized finish that’s both sweet and a little tangy. It’s an easy way to make a dinner feel special without spending hours in the kitchen.
I love making this dish when I want something fresh but still packed with flavor. The pineapple glaze adds such a lovely pop to the salmon, and it pairs perfectly with simple sides like steamed rice or a crisp green salad. One tip I always use is to brush the glaze on the fish as it cooks to keep it moist and full of that fruity flavor.
This meal always reminds me of warm evenings and relaxed dinners with friends or family. There’s something about the combination of juicy pineapple and tender salmon that just feels like a little celebration on your plate. Whenever I serve this, I like to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a bit of extra color and freshness. It’s a favorite in our home and always brings smiles to the table.
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets work best for a tender, rich texture. If salmon isn’t available, try trout or sea bass for a similar feel and flavor.
Pineapple juice: Fresh pineapple juice adds vibrant sweetness, but canned juice or even orange juice can be good stand-ins. Just watch the sweetness level.
Honey or brown sugar: Honey creates a smooth glaze, while brown sugar adds a deeper caramel hint. Maple syrup can also work nicely as a natural sweetener.
Soy sauce: For a gluten-free version, tamari sauce is a great alternative that keeps the salty umami flavor.
Rice vinegar or lime juice: These add necessary tang to balance the sweetness. Lemon juice can be swapped in if that’s what you have.
Garlic and ginger: Fresh is best to add bright, aromatic flavor. Powdered versions can be used in a pinch but fresh makes the dish pop.
Chili: Optional but recommended for a little heat. Adjust based on how spicy you like your food or omit for a milder taste.
How Do You Get the Salmon Perfectly Glazed and Cooked?
Cooking the salmon just right with the glaze is key. Follow these steps for great results:
- Start with a hot pan and a little olive oil for a nice sear on the first side (about 3-4 minutes).
- Flip the salmon gently to avoid breaking it.
- Pour the glaze over salmon immediately after flipping.
- Lower heat to medium so the glaze thickens slowly without burning.
- Spoon the glaze over the salmon often in the last 3-5 minutes to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Watch carefully—the salmon should flake with a fork but still be moist inside.
I like to finish with fresh green onions or herbs for a pop of color and freshness. This simple technique ensures a shiny, sticky glaze and tender, delicious salmon every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick or stainless steel skillet – perfect for searing salmon evenly without sticking.
- Small mixing bowl – to whisk together the pineapple glaze ingredients easily.
- Measuring spoons and cup – for accurate glaze ingredient amounts.
- Spatula or fish turner – helps you flip the salmon gently without breaking it.
- Basting spoon or small brush – to spoon or brush glaze over salmon while cooking for extra flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for mahi-mahi or cod for a milder fish that pairs nicely with sweet glaze.
- Add minced fresh jalapeño or substitute chili flakes with sriracha for a spicier kick.
- Stir chopped fresh herbs like basil or mint into the glaze for a fresh twist.
- Mix finely diced bell peppers or pineapple chunks into glaze for extra texture and sweetness.
Pineapple Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 small red chili or ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Getting this delicious Pineapple Glazed Salmon on your table will take about 20 minutes total. Preparation takes around 5 minutes to make the glaze and season the fish. Cooking the salmon and glazing it will need another 15 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dish that feels special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pineapple Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar (or lime juice), minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped red chili or chili flakes if you like some heat. Stir until everything is well combined and set this mixture aside.
2. Season and Cook the Salmon:
Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels and sprinkle both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side until you see a nice golden crust form.
3. Add Glaze and Finish Cooking:
Flip the salmon gently to the other side. Pour the pineapple glaze over the fish. Lower the heat to medium and keep cooking for another 3–5 minutes. While cooking, spoon the glaze over the salmon often to keep it juicy and build up that sticky, shiny sauce. The salmon is done when it flakes easily but still looks moist inside.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Take the salmon off the heat and sprinkle the thinly sliced green onions on top. Add fresh cilantro or parsley if you like. Serve your beautiful glazed salmon with steamed rice and some sautéed or steamed veggies for a well-rounded, tasty meal.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to completely thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry well to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent a nice sear and glaze.
Can I Make the Pineapple Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and keep it refrigerated in a sealed container. Give it a good stir before using to recombine any separated ingredients.
How Should I Store Leftover Pineapple Glazed Salmon?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra glaze to keep it moist.
What Sides Pair Well with Pineapple Glazed Salmon?
This salmon tastes great served with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa and a side of sautéed or steamed vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or broccoli to keep the meal fresh and balanced.
