Baked Pineapple Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweetness of pineapple complements the savory salmon, enhanced by a tangy sauce.

Ingredients

• 2½ pounds (1.2 kg) salmon fillet
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup sweet chili sauce
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can pineapple slices (reserve ¼ cup of juice)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• Lime slices, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
   • Place the salmon fillet in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
   • Arrange the pineapple slices around and underneath the salmon.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, melted butter, hoisin sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and ¼ cup of the reserved pineapple juice until well combined.
4. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the salmon.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. For a caramelized finish, broil for the last 5 minutes until the edges are slightly charred.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve with lime slices on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 566 kcal

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicier version.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or mint for an added layer of flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Use orange juice instead of pineapple juice for a different citrus profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent the salmon from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Simply slice it and use in place of canned pineapple. You may need to add a bit of extra liquid to the sauce since you won’t have the reserved juice.

2. Is there a substitute for hoisin sauce?

If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can substitute it with a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of honey or brown sugar to achieve a similar sweet and savory flavor.

3. Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?

Yes, you can grill the salmon. Place it on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, basting with the sauce occasionally.

4. What side dishes pair well with this dish?

Steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad complement the flavors of the baked pineapple salmon nicely.

5. Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to achieve even cooking.

6. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

7. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before using.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure that the hoisin sauce and sweet chili sauce used are gluten-free varieties.

9. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding bell peppers, onions, or snap peas around the salmon can enhance the dish and make it a complete meal.

10. What other types of fish can I use with this recipe?

Other firm fish like cod or halibut can be used as substitutes for salmon in this recipe.

Conclusion

This Baked Pineapple Salmon offers a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful addition to your meal repertoire. Its quick preparation and minimal cleanup make it

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