
What Makes This Salmon So Good
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, this sweet and spicy salmon hits the spot. It’s quick enough for weeknights but has that “wow” factor that makes it perfect for guests too.
Here’s why we keep coming back to it:
- The glaze is a perfect mix of tangy, sweet, and spicy.
- Roasted pineapple adds a tropical twist that feels special.
- Just one pan and about 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Pairs beautifully with rice, orzo, or roasted veggies.
- Leftovers make excellent tacos or rice bowls the next day.
Need something to round out the meal? Try it with Cheesy Lemon Orzo or Pineapple Fried Rice.
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon
Ingredients
- 2-2.5 lbs. salmon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 8 oz. cans pineapple slices, drained (reserve juice for glaze)
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil. Spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Lay 2-2.5 lbs. salmon on foil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange 2 8 oz. cans pineapple slices, drained (reserve juice for glaze) around edges of salmon. Fold edges of foil up around the salmon and pineapple.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar and 1/4 cup pineapple juice. Pour glaze over salmon.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes. Switch oven to broil and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until edges of salmon just begin to blacken.
- Sprinkle with Chopped fresh cilantro before serving, if desired.
Nutrition

Recipe Tips
- Rather than shopping for a certain type of fish, buy the fish that looks the freshest. Similar types of fish can usually be substituted in a recipe. If you were planning to use cod in a recipe, for example, you can easily substitute orange roughy or snapper.
- Measure your fish at its thickest part, then aim for about 10 minutes of cooking time per inch of thickness
- Use an instant read thermometer to make sure your fish is cooked properly. The recommended internal temperature is 125 degrees. F.
How to Store & Reheat
Leftovers? You’re in luck.
- To store: Keep salmon and pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat: Warm gently in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of pineapple juice or water to keep it moist.
Leftover salmon also makes amazing fish tacos—just chop it up with extra pineapple and maybe a little slaw.
Try It a Different Way
Want to shake things up? Here are a few fun twists:
- Grilled Version: Skip the foil. Grill the salmon and pineapple separately, basting with glaze.
- Taco-Style: Flake the salmon, chop the pineapple, and serve in warm tortillas with avocado and lime.
- More Heat: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the glaze if you like things spicier.
- Citrus Twist: Sub in orange juice for a richer glaze flavor (a tip from a reader that turned out great!).
What Should I Serve With Salmon?
Green salad, roasted vegetables, grains like rice, quinoa, and couscous, most kinds of pasta, mashed potatoes — they all go beautifully with this salmon.
Here are some of our favorite sides to enjoy with this salmon.



Be sure to save this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board for later.






11 comments
Em
I’ve made this like 4 times and I love it! Thanks
Donna
Great recipe. Had 3 lbs of salmon, doubled the glaze. Full of flavor.
Pamela
I made this tonight. It was very good. Great recipe. Thank you.