If you adore the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and a hint of heat, then the Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. This dish combines tender, flaky salmon with juicy pineapple slices and a luscious glaze that marries sweet chili sauce, brown sugar, and soy sauce into an irresistible symphony of flavors. It’s fresh, vibrant, and surprisingly simple to prepare, making it the kind of meal you can confidently serve to family and friends any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a large fillet of salmon with a shiny, golden-orange surface that has grill marks. The salmon is covered with a glossy sauce with small red chili flakes scattered on top. Bright green chopped herbs are sprinkled over the fillet, adding color contrast. The salmon rests on several slices of yellow pineapple that are slightly caramelized. The whole dish is on a white marbled textured surface with some silver foil peeking from the edges. A fork and knife are placed beside the salmon, with a woman's hand holding the knife as it cuts into the fish, revealing the flaky pink inside. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting ready to make this Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon Recipe is a breeze thanks to the straightforward, fresh ingredients. Each item plays an essential role in bringing out the dish’s signature flavor and beautiful presentation.

Salmon (2-2.5 lbs): Choose fresh, thick fillets for tender, juicy results that hold up well to baking and broiling.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the salmon without overpowering it.
Pineapple slices (2 cans, 8 oz each, drained): Adds a sweet, tangy burst that beautifully contrasts with the spicy glaze.
Sweet chili sauce (1/2 cup): Provides the perfect blend of sweetness and subtle heat to bring this recipe to life.
Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle acidity to balance the sweetness and brighten flavors.
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds savory umami depth and a touch of saltiness to the glaze.
Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Enhances caramelization and intensifies the sweet notes.
Pineapple juice (1/4 cup): Used to thin out the glaze and infuse the salmon with more pineapple flavor.
Chopped fresh cilantro: Fresh herb garnish that adds color and a burst of bright, herbal aroma.

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Lightly spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Lay down your salmon fillets and generously season them on both sides with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavors.

Step 2: Arrange the Pineapple Slices

Drain the pineapple slices, reserving the juice for later use in the glaze. Nestle the pineapple slices around the edges of the salmon on the baking sheet. This arrangement will let the pineapple roast gently alongside the fish, infusing the salmon with sweet, tropical aroma.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice you saved. This glaze is the magic that gives the dish its irresistible sweet and spicy character. Pour it evenly over the salmon and pineapple, making sure every bit of fish is coated.

Step 4: Bake and Broil to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the salmon is just about cooked through and flaky when tested with a fork. Then switch to the broil setting and broil for an additional 4 to 5 minutes. Watch closely as the edges of the salmon and pineapple start to caramelize perfectly, developing those beautifully blackened tips that add wonderful depth of flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the salmon with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of green color and fresh aroma. The cilantro brightens each bite and rounds out the sweet and spicy flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon Recipe

A large cooked salmon fillet with a golden-brown surface sits on a foil-lined base, garnished with bright green chopped herbs scattered over the top. The fish shows grill marks and is covered in a shiny glaze with visible red chili flakes and black pepper. Underneath the salmon, there are slices of yellow pineapple visible on the side. A silver fork is placed near the bottom right side of the fillet, touching the fish. The whole scene is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped cilantro is a classic garnish for this recipe, but you can also add thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal. Each garnish brings a new dimension to the flavors and presentation.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the glaze. For a fresh contrast, try serving it alongside crisp, lightly dressed Asian slaw or sautéed garlic green beans. These sides balance the richness and add crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, you can serve the salmon on a bed of mixed greens topped with extra pineapple slices and a drizzle of the glaze. Another idea is to flake the cooked salmon and use it to top warm tortillas with avocado and crunchy slaw for quick salmon tacos inspired by the flavors of this Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salmon should be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making for convenient next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. Frozen salmon is best consumed within 1 month for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftover salmon gently in a low oven (about 275 degrees Fahrenheit) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent drying out; instead, cover with foil to retain moisture and heat slowly for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for the Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon Recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple works wonderfully and can brighten the flavors even more. Just slice it into rings or chunks and slightly grill or roast before using to develop a similar caramelized effect.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, this Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon Recipe reheats very well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. Just keep portions stored separately with rice and veggies for balanced meals throughout the week.

Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?

You can, though you’ll want to use a grill basket or foil to prevent sticking and losing the pineapple pieces. Brush the glaze on toward the end of grilling for a sticky, flavorful finish.

Is this recipe very spicy?

Not at all. The sweetness of the pineapple and the mild heat from the sweet chili sauce create just a gentle kick that most people find pleasant. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili sauce depending on your preference.

Can I substitute the salmon with another fish?

Yes, firm white fish like cod, halibut, or mahi-mahi can work, but salmon’s richness pairs best with the sweet and spicy glaze. If using a leaner fish, be sure not to overcook for tender results.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a treat yet comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or impressing guests, it delivers vibrant flavors and a gorgeous presentation every time. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a trusted favorite in your recipe box!