Honey Pineapple Salmon

Honey Pineapple Salmon is a tropical-inspired dish that blends sweet and savory flavors with a fresh, citrusy kick. Tender salmon fillets are glazed in a sticky honey-pineapple sauce and baked or pan-seared to caramelized perfection. I love making this when I want something light, flavorful, and a little bit unexpected—it’s like a tropical vacation on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for weeknights or special occasions. The honey brings sweetness, the pineapple adds brightness, and together they create a caramelized glaze that tastes incredible over flaky salmon. It pairs well with rice, veggies, or even grilled pineapple slices for a complete, feel-good meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)

• Fresh or canned pineapple, chopped (plus juice)

• Honey

• Soy sauce

• Garlic, minced

• Ginger, grated (optional but adds great flavor)

• Olive oil or butter

• Salt and black pepper

• Green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 400°F or heat a skillet over medium heat if cooking on the stovetop.

2. In a small saucepan, I combine pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. I simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened into a glaze.

3. I season the salmon with salt and pepper, then sear it skin-side down in a lightly oiled skillet for 2–3 minutes to get a crisp edge.

4. I brush the salmon with the honey pineapple glaze and transfer it to the oven (or reduce heat and continue cooking in the skillet), basting with more glaze as it cooks.

5. I cook until the salmon is flaky and glazed, about 10–12 minutes depending on thickness.

6. I serve it hot with extra pineapple chunks, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if I want to dress it up.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it a 25-minute meal that’s quick and impressive.

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of lime juice to the glaze for extra zing, or stir in chili flakes for a spicy-sweet version. I’ve also grilled the salmon instead of baking it, which gives it great charred flavor. For a full tropical meal, I serve it over coconut rice with grilled pineapple on the side.

storage/reheating

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a spoonful of reserved glaze or pineapple juice to keep it moist. I avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the salmon tender.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes. I use canned pineapple chunks packed in juice (not syrup) and use the juice for the glaze. It works perfectly.

Can I make this with frozen salmon?

Yes. I thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to help the glaze stick and caramelize properly.

Can I grill the salmon instead?

Definitely. I brush the glaze on during grilling and add more just before serving. It gives the salmon great smoky flavor.

What’s the best side dish for this?

I usually serve it with rice (white, jasmine, or coconut), roasted veggies, or a simple green salad.

Is it very sweet?

It has a sweet glaze, but the soy sauce and garlic balance it out. I can always adjust the honey to make it more or less sweet.

Conclusion

Honey Pineapple Salmon is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that always feels fresh and exciting. With its balance of sweetness, savoriness, and citrusy brightness, it’s a go-to in my kitchen when I want something fast, tropical, and downright delicious. Whether I serve it for a family dinner or a summer night with friends, it never disappoints.