Name: Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Tropical Fusion
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice) or finely chopped fresh pineapple; 3 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh grated ginger (or 1/4 tsp ground); 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice; 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water (optional, for thickening); Chopped green onions (optional garnish); Sesame seeds (optional garnish); Lime wedges (optional garnish); Fresh cilantro (optional garnish)

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This sweet and spicy pineapple salmon is a vibrant, tropical-inspired dish that brings together the richness of salmon with the bold flavors of a sticky pineapple glaze. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that feels like something special, thanks to the sweet, tangy, and spicy notes all working in harmony.

Ingredients

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

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pineapple Glaze:

1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice) or finely chopped fresh pineapple

3 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

2 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (or ¼ teaspoon ground)

1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice

1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 teaspoon water (optional, for thickening)

Optional Garnishes:

Chopped green onions

Sesame seeds

Lime wedges

Fresh cilantro

Directions

Make the Glaze:

I combine all the glaze ingredients (except the cornstarch and water) in a small saucepan and bring them to a simmer over medium heat. I let it cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. If I want the glaze thicker, I mix the cornstarch with water and stir it in, simmering for another 1–2 minutes before setting it aside.

Cook the Salmon (Choose Pan-Sear or Bake):

Option A — Pan-Sear:

I pat the salmon dry, season it with salt and pepper, and heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. I cook the salmon skin-side down for 3–4 minutes per side, until it’s golden and cooked through.

Option B — Bake:

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the salmon on a lined baking sheet, and brush it with half of the glaze. I bake for 12–15 minutes, brushing with more glaze halfway through.

Glaze and Serve:

Before serving, I drizzle the rest of the pineapple glaze over the salmon. Then I top it off with green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the salmon for shrimp or chicken thighs when I’m in the mood for something different. For a fully gluten-free version, I use tamari instead of soy sauce. When I want a punchier flavor, I increase the sriracha. I’ve also tried grilling the salmon for a smoky twist—it’s amazing.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid drying it out. If I have extra glaze, I reheat it separately and spoon it over the top to refresh the flavor.

FAQs

How spicy is the pineapple salmon?

It has a noticeable kick, but it’s not overwhelming. I usually start with a smaller amount of sriracha and add more to taste.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, I use canned crushed pineapple often—it works great and saves time. Just make sure it’s packed in juice, not syrup.

What can I serve with pineapple salmon?

I like to pair it with jasmine rice, coconut rice, or roasted veggies. It’s also great in a bowl with avocado, cucumber, and edamame.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. I make the glaze a day or two ahead and store it in the fridge. I just reheat it gently before using.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

I look for opaque flesh that flakes easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal for cooked salmon.

Conclusion

Sweet and spicy pineapple salmon is one of those meals that always feels like a treat, even though it’s super easy to pull together. The combination of bold flavors and the versatility of preparation makes it one of my go-to dishes when I want something fresh, fast, and delicious. Whether I’m making it for myself or sharing with others, it always hits the spot.

Recipe:

Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This sweet and spicy pineapple salmon combines the buttery richness of salmon with a bold, tropical pineapple glaze. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner, it balances sweet, tangy, and spicy elements in every bite.

Instructions

In a small saucepan, combine all glaze ingredients except cornstarch and water. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If a thicker glaze is desired, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the glaze. Simmer for 1–2 more minutes and set aside.
For pan-seared salmon: Pat salmon dry, season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon skin-side down for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
For baked salmon: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon on a lined baking sheet and brush with half the glaze. Bake for 12–15 minutes, brushing with more glaze halfway through.
Drizzle remaining glaze over salmon before serving. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro if desired.