Perfect Grilled Salmon with Pineapple

Grilled Salmon with Pineapple transforms your ordinary weeknight dinner into something truly special with just a few simple ingredients. I’ve been perfecting this recipe for over twenty years, and it never fails to impress my family and guests.

There’s something magical that happens when you combine the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with sweet, caramelized pineapple on the grill. I still remember the first time I tried this combination at a summer barbecue – my neighbor had this incredible aroma wafting from her backyard, and I just had to know what she was cooking. That moment sparked my love affair with tropical-inspired grilling, and now it’s become one of my most requested recipes.

The marinade adds layers of flavor while keeping the salmon incredibly moist—similar to how it enhances dishes like my Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice, and grilling both the fish and fruit creates this beautiful caramelization that makes every bite absolutely divine.

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Salmon with Pineapple

This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for decades, and I’ve served it to countless family gatherings where it always steals the show. What started as an experiment has become one of my most treasured go-to meals because it delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

• Easy to make with everyday ingredients that you can find at any grocery store
• Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners – ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
• Consistently delicious results thanks to the foolproof marinade that keeps salmon moist every time
• Healthy option packed with omega-3 fatty acids and natural fruit enzymes from fresh pineapple
• Sweet and savory flavor combination that appeals to both kids and adults
• Great for summer barbecues when you want to impress without the stress

This grilled salmon with pineapple isn’t just a meal – it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that bring people together around the dinner table.

Ingredient Note List

Salmon Fillets: I always recommend choosing fresh, wild-caught salmon when possible because it has the best flavor and texture for grilling, plus it holds up beautifully to the marinade.

Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is essential for this recipe because it caramelizes perfectly on the grill and adds natural sweetness that canned simply can’t match.

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil helps create a protective barrier during grilling while adding a subtle fruity flavor that complements both the salmon and pineapple.

Soy Sauce: This adds the perfect umami depth to balance the sweetness and helps create that beautiful golden color when the salmon hits the grill.

Honey: Pure honey acts as a natural tenderizer and helps the marinade caramelize, creating those gorgeous grill marks we all love.

Garlic Powder: I prefer garlic powder over fresh garlic in marinades because it distributes more evenly and won’t burn on the high heat of the grill.

Ground Ginger: Fresh ground ginger adds a subtle warmth and pairs beautifully with the tropical pineapple flavors in this grilled salmon dish.

Fresh Cilantro: This bright herb adds a fresh, citrusy finish that cuts through the richness of the salmon and ties all the flavors together perfectly.

How to Cook Grilled Salmon with Pineapple?

Step 1. I usually start by placing the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and whisking together all the marinade ingredients – this ensures every piece gets evenly coated with flavor.

Step 2. My grandma always told me that patience makes perfect fish, so I let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes to really absorb those sweet and savory flavors.

Step 3. While the salmon marinates, I cut the pineapple into half-inch rings and brush them lightly with olive oil – this prevents sticking and helps create beautiful caramelization.

Step 4. I’ve found that preheating the grill to medium-high heat is crucial for getting those perfect grill marks without overcooking the delicate salmon.

Step 5. When grilling, I always place the salmon skin-side down first and resist the urge to move it – letting it cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes creates the best sear.

Step 6. My husband always knows dinner’s almost ready when he sees me carefully flip the salmon and add the pineapple rings to the grill at the same time.

Step 7. The pineapple only needs 2-3 minutes per side to develop those gorgeous caramelized edges that make this dish so special.

Step 8. I usually test doneness by gently pressing the salmon with a fork – when it flakes easily and has that beautiful golden color, it’s perfect.

How to Store & Reheat

I usually store any leftover grilled salmon with pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure the fish cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup that can affect the texture.

In my experience, this dish is best enjoyed fresh from the grill, but if you need to freeze portions, wrap them tightly in foil and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months. The salmon freezes well, though the pineapple may become slightly softer after thawing.

For best results, I recommend reheating leftovers gently in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also use the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to overcook as salmon can dry out quickly when reheated.

What to Serve with Grilled Salmon with Pineapple

Coconut Rice: The creamy, tropical flavors of coconut rice complement the pineapple beautifully while providing a perfect base to soak up any extra marinade from the salmon.

Grilled Asparagus: These tender spears add a fresh, slightly crisp texture that contrasts wonderfully with the flaky salmon, and they cook at the same time on the grill.

Quinoa Salad with Cherry Tomatoes: This light, protein-packed side adds colorful freshness and helps balance the richness of the grilled salmon with bright, tangy flavors—try it with our Refreshing Mediterranean Quinoa Salad.

Garlic Green Beans: The savory garlic flavor enhances the overall meal while the crisp texture provides a nice contrast to the tender fish and caramelized pineapple.

Coleslaw with Lime Dressing: In my kitchen, I often serve this tangy, crunchy side because it cuts through the richness while adding a refreshing element that’s perfect for summer meals.

Rice Pilaf with Herbs: This aromatic side dish soaks up the delicious juices from the salmon and pineapple while adding subtle herbal notes that complement the tropical flavors.

Cucumber Salad: For a refreshing crunch, pair it with our Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad—a chilled, zesty favorite in our house.

FAQs

How many calories are in grilled salmon with pineapple?

Each serving contains approximately 350 calories with 30 grams of high-quality protein, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Is grilled salmon with pineapple healthy for you?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, natural enzymes from fresh pineapple, and provides lean protein with minimal added fats.

Can I substitute the pineapple with other fruits?

I often use mango or peaches when pineapple isn’t available – they both caramelize beautifully on the grill and complement the salmon’s rich flavor.

What’s the best way to tell when salmon is properly cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F – it should have a beautiful golden color and feel firm but not tough.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes! Use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat or broil in the oven for 4-5 minutes per side, watching carefully to prevent overcooking.