Easy Pineapple Glazed Salmon Recipe is the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and tropical an effortless dinner that looks restaurant-quality but takes less than 30 minutes to make.
Picture tender, flaky salmon brushed with a glossy pineapple glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven or pan. The glaze is sweet, tangy, garlicky, and lightly sticky, creating that irresistible sweet-savory balance that makes every bite crave worthy. The salmon stays buttery and juicy inside, while the pineapple glaze adds a bright tropical punch that feels fresh and exciting.
This pineapple glazed salmon is perfect for busy weeknights, healthy dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions when you want something impressive without stress. It’s colorful, vibrant, and totally Pinterest-worthy ideal for anyone who loves quick seafood recipes with bold flavor. If you enjoy easy, flavor packed salmon dishes that feel fancy but require minimal effort, this recipe will become a go to in your kitchen.
PINEAPPLE SALMON RECIPE
What Is Easy Pineapple Glazed Salmon?
Pineapple Glazed Salmon is a simple seafood dish where fresh salmon fillets are cooked and brushed with a sweet and savory pineapple based glaze. The glaze typically combines pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey or brown sugar to create a tropical, umami rich sauce.
This recipe is inspired by Asian and Hawaiian style flavors, where sweet fruit glazes are often paired with grilled or pan seared fish. Pineapple naturally tenderizes and complements salmon, making it a perfect match for this recipe.
What makes this version unique is its simplicity. It uses pantry friendly ingredients, comes together quickly, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Whether baked, pan-seared, or grilled, this pineapple glazed salmon is a fresh, flavorful twist on classic salmon recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & Savory Flavor: The pineapple glaze balances sweetness, tang, and umami perfectly.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 20–30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy & Protein Packed: Salmon is rich in omega-3s and lean protein.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Works in the oven, on the stovetop, or on the grill.
- Pinterest-Worthy: Glossy glaze and vibrant tropical colors make stunning photos.
How This Recipe Works
- Pineapple Adds Natural Sweetness: Pineapple juice caramelizes as it cooks, creating a sticky glaze.
- Soy Sauce Adds Umami: Salty soy sauce balances the sweetness for a savory depth of flavor.
- Garlic & Ginger Add Aroma: These aromatics create a fragrant, restaurant-style taste.
- High Heat Seals in Juices: Cooking salmon at the right temperature keeps it flaky and moist while the glaze thickens beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (5–6 oz each, skin on or off)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Pineapple Glaze
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (canned or fresh)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (or 1/4 tsp ground ginger)
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh pineapple chunks
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
Substitutions
- Pineapple Juice: Use mango juice or orange juice for a different tropical twist.
- Soy Sauce: Substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free.
- Sweetener: Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
- Vinegar: Lime juice works beautifully for a brighter flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Make the Pineapple Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir it into the glaze and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened and glossy. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on). Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until salmon is flaky and cooked through.
Alternatively, bake salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes or grill over medium heat.
Step 4: Glaze the Salmon
Brush the thickened pineapple glaze generously over the cooked salmon. Let it caramelize for 1–2 minutes in the pan, or return to the oven briefly for a sticky finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh pineapple chunks, green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips & Tricks / Flavor Variations
- Spicy Pineapple Salmon: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the glaze for heat.
- Teriyaki Style: Add a splash of mirin or sesame oil for a teriyaki inspired flavor.
- Grilled Version: Grill the salmon and brush glaze during the last few minutes for smoky caramelization.
- Pineapple Salsa Topping: Mix diced pineapple with red onion, cilantro, and lime for a fresh topping.
- Extra Sticky Glaze: Double the glaze recipe if you like extra sauce for drizzling over rice or veggies.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Instructions
Make-Ahead
You can prepare the pineapple glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before using.
Storage
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out.
Freezing
Freeze cooked salmon (without garnish) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in foil and freezer-safe bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or quinoa to soak up the glaze.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, sautéed green beans, or grilled asparagus.
- Add a side of pineapple salsa or mango salad for a tropical meal.
- Serve with garlic butter noodles or a crisp green salad for a lighter dinner.
This dish pairs beautifully with other easy seafood or sheet pan recipes like lemon herb salmon, one-pan chicken and veggies, or creamy pesto pasta for a complete weekly meal plan.
Nutritional Notes (Per Serving)
Approximate values per salmon fillet with glaze:
- Calories: 320–390 kcal
- Protein: 30–35g
- Fat: 18–22g
- Carbohydrates: 15–20g
- Sugar: 12–16g
- Fiber: 0–1g
Values vary depending on glaze amount and serving sides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon dries out quickly—cook until just flaky.
- Not Thickening the Glaze: Cornstarch is key for that sticky, glossy finish.
- Using Too Much Heat: High heat can burn the glaze; simmer gently.
- Skipping Drying the Fish: Pat salmon dry to get a good sear and prevent steaming.
- Adding Glaze Too Early: Brush glaze near the end so it doesn’t burn.
FAQs
Can I bake this instead of pan-searing?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then brush with glaze and broil briefly.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of juice?
Absolutely. Blend fresh pineapple and strain for juice, or simmer crushed pineapple into the glaze.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking for best texture.
How do I know when salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Conclusion
This Easy Pineapple Glazed Salmon Recipe is sweet, savory, juicy, and bursting with tropical flavor. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or impressive meals for guests. With its glossy glaze and tender flaky salmon, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
If you love easy dinners like One Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Zucchini or Easy Mango Teriyaki Salmon Recipe, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.
Save this Easy Pineapple Glazed Salmon for a sweet and savory tropical dinner you’ll want to make again and again!
Easy Pineapple Glazed Salmon Recipe
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets 5–6 oz each, skin on or off
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Pineapple Glaze
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice canned or fresh
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated (or 1/4 tsp ground ginger)
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water for thickening
Optional Garnishes
- Optional Garnishes
- Fresh pineapple chunks
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Salmon
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Make the Pineapple Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir it into the glaze and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened and glossy. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on). Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until salmon is flaky and cooked through.
- Alternatively, bake salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes or grill over medium heat.
Step 4: Glaze the Salmon
- Brush the thickened pineapple glaze generously over the cooked salmon. Let it caramelize for 1–2 minutes in the pan, or return to the oven briefly for a sticky finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Top with fresh pineapple chunks, green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately while warm.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Use fresh or canned pineapple juice for the glaze—fresh gives brighter flavor.
- Salmon fillets with skin help keep the fish moist while cooking.
- Add soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for a sweet-salty balance.
- Thicken the glaze with a little cornstarch if you prefer a sticky sauce.
- Brush the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning.
- Grill, bake, or pan-sear depending on your preferred cooking method.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently to keep salmon moist.
