This Honey Pineapple Salmon recipe is the definition of easy elegance. Juicy pineapple and sticky honey come together with a touch of soy sauce and garlic to create a glaze that caramelizes beautifully on salmon fillets. It’s sweet, savory, tangy, and just a little garlicky—all the things we want in a quick, flavor-packed dinner.
The best part? This dish looks and tastes like something you’d get at a restaurant, but it’s actually super simple to make. You can cook it in the oven, on the stovetop, or even on the grill if you’re feeling adventurous. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad—and you’ve got yourself a fresh, tropical-inspired meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes or less: Fast, flavorful, and fuss-free.
- Flavor explosion: The sweet pineapple, sticky honey, and umami-rich soy glaze is unbeatable.
- Healthy and satisfying: Salmon is packed with protein and omega-3s.
- One-pan option: Fewer dishes, more enjoyment.
- Customizable: Make it spicy, garlicky, or citrusy—your call.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: ~380
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 20g
Ingredients
For the Salmon & Glaze:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Honey Pineapple Sauce:
- ½ cup crushed pineapple (with juice) or ⅓ cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger (optional, but adds a nice zing)
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (to thicken the glaze)
Optional Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Chopped cilantro
- Pineapple chunks
- Lime wedges
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the honey pineapple sauce
- In a small saucepan, whisk together pineapple, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and ginger.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the sauce.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the glaze thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prep the salmon
- Pat salmon dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Sear salmon (skin-side down if it has skin) for 2–3 minutes, just until lightly golden.
3. Glaze and bake (or continue on stovetop)
- Oven method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the salmon with the pineapple glaze and transfer skillet to oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Stovetop method: Lower heat to medium-low, spoon glaze over the salmon, cover, and simmer for 6–8 minutes until salmon is cooked through and glaze is sticky.
4. Finish and serve
- Spoon extra glaze over the salmon.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, pineapple chunks, or sesame seeds.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
How to Serve
This tropical-inspired salmon is super versatile. Here are a few serving ideas:
- With rice: Jasmine or coconut rice is perfect for soaking up that sweet glaze.
- Over quinoa or couscous: A healthy, hearty option.
- Taco-style: Flake the salmon and serve in warm tortillas with cabbage slaw and avocado.
- On a salad: Top mixed greens with warm salmon, sliced cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette.
- Bowl-style: Build a grain bowl with salmon, pineapple salsa, edamame, and a lime wedge.
Additional Tips
- Use fresh or canned pineapple: Either works—just make sure canned pineapple is in juice, not syrup.
- Don’t overcook the salmon: It should flake easily and still be moist in the center.
- Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha to the glaze.
- Double the sauce: Great if you want extra to drizzle over rice or veggies.
- Meal prep bonus: Salmon and glaze reheat well and make great leftovers.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Pineapple Salmon: Add ½ teaspoon chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the glaze.
- Grilled version: Grill salmon and brush with glaze in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Citrus swap: Use orange or mango juice for a different tropical twist.
- Teriyaki-style: Add 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce to the glaze for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Low-carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted zucchini.
Storage and Reheating
Fridge: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap cooled salmon tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F or in a covered skillet with a splash of water or glaze to keep it moist.
Special Equipment
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
- Small saucepan for making the glaze
- Spatula or fish turner to keep fillets intact
- Zester or grater for fresh ginger (optional)
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes—thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.
What if I don’t have pineapple?
Mango or orange juice works as a substitute, or try apricot preserves for a different twist.
Can I use salmon with skin?
Absolutely. Sear it skin-side down and leave it on during baking—it helps retain moisture.
Is this recipe halal?
Yes! Just be sure your soy sauce and other ingredients are certified halal and alcohol-free.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! You can prep the sauce and glaze the salmon ahead of time. Store both separately and cook when ready.
Conclusion
This Honey Pineapple Salmon is a sweet and savory dinner hero that tastes like it took hours—but comes together in under 30 minutes. With its bright glaze, juicy salmon, and tropical vibes, it’s a recipe that feels special, but is easy enough to pull off any night of the week.
Make it once, and it might just become your go-to way to enjoy salmon. Tag me if you try it—I’d love to see your tropical masterpiece!
