Baked Pineapple Salmon

Salmon is a versatile fish that adapts beautifully to a range of flavors, but sometimes, a recipe comes along that truly enhances its rich, flaky texture and distinct taste. The recipe I’m sharing with you today, Baked Pineapple Salmon, does just that, with a tropical twist that’s as delightful to the palate as it is easy to prepare. This dish is perfect for those looking to impress dinner guests or simply spice up their weeknight meal routine.

Ingredients

To start, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 ½ pounds (1.2 kg) side of salmon: This will serve as the centerpiece of your dish. Choose a fresh, high-quality piece for the best results.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: These will enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
• ½ cup sweet chili sauce: Adds a sweet and spicy kick that complements the salmon beautifully.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: For richness and to help the sauce adhere to the salmon.
• 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce: Introduces a depth of flavor that’s both tangy and slightly sweet.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity to balance the dish.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: For that essential hit of aromatics.
• 1 can pineapple slices, drained and reserve ¼ cup of juice: The pineapple not only adds a tropical flair but also tenderizes the salmon, making it even more succulent.
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, roughly chopped: Brings freshness and a hint of citrusy flavor.
• Lime slices, for serving: Offers an extra burst of acidity and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Directions

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process:

1. Prep and Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with nonstick aluminium foil. This ensures an easy cleanup.
2. Season the Salmon: Place your salmon on the prepared sheet, seasoning both sides with salt and pepper. This base layer of seasoning is crucial for flavor.
3. Arrange the Pineapple: Slide the pineapple slices underneath the salmon. As the salmon bakes, it’ll soak up some of that sweet pineapple juice, adding an incredible depth of flavor.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, melted butter, hoisin sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and the reserved pineapple juice. This sauce will glaze the salmon, giving it a glossy, flavorful coating.
5. Bake: Pour the sauce over the salmon and bake for 15 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through. For a beautifully charred edge, broil for the last 5 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. Serve with lime slices for an added zing.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a showstopper on its own but pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce, or a light, refreshing salad to balance the rich flavors of the salmon.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 350 kcal per serving
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to cooking fish, this Baked Pineapple Salmon recipe is straightforward and promises to deliver on flavor, texture, and presentation. It’s a delightful way to bring a taste of the tropics to your dining table, proving that sometimes, a simple twist can elevate a classic dish to something truly extraordinary. Enjoy your culinary journey!

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