Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings the flavors of summer right to your dinner table, then you’re in for a treat with this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it perfectly balances the sweet and savory notes, making it a hit with both family and friends. Whether you’re having a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish fits the bill beautifully.

The magic of Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create an impressive meal that feels like a gourmet experience. Plus, the caramelized peach glaze adds a touch of elegance that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: The sweet and tangy flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead option: Marinate the salmon earlier in the day to save time when it’s time to cook!
• Deliciously unique: The combination of bourbon and peaches creates a flavor that’s truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor. Each component works together to create something truly special.

For the Marinade

• ¾ cup (240 g) peach preserves
• ¼ cup (56 g) bourbon
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon coarse ground mustard
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon filets (about 1½ pounds, skins on)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 medium peaches (pitted, thinly sliced)
• parsley (for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is so versatile! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of salmon for a different twist.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the baking process for an extra nutrient boost.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of peach preserves or add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding different herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

How to Make Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine peach preserves, bourbon, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mixing these ingredients well creates a delicious marinade that will infuse your salmon with incredible flavor. Remember to set aside half for later!

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a resealable plastic bag and pour in half of your homemade marinade. Seal the bag tightly and gently mix it up so every piece is coated. Letting it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows those wonderful flavors to soak into the fish.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F. This step ensures that your salmon bakes evenly and reaches that perfect level of tenderness.

Step 4: Sear the Salmon

Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place your marinated salmon fillets skin-side up into the skillet. Searing them for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown creates a beautiful crust that seals in moisture.

Step 5: Add Peaches

Flip your salmon fillets so they’re skin-side down and add those lovely sliced peaches around them in the skillet. Cooking them briefly gives them just enough time to soften while also allowing their juices to mingle with the salmon.

Step 6: Pour on Reserved Marinade

Remove from heat and pour your reserved peach marinade over everything in the skillet. This step adds even more flavor while creating that amazing glaze as everything cooks together.

Step 7: Bake It All Together

Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Start checking around 12 minutes; you want your salmon cooked through but still moist! The internal temperature should reach 145°F.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done baking, remove your skillet from the oven and serve this delicious Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon immediately. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for that extra pop! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Cooking can sometimes feel daunting, but with these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a mouthwatering Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon that impresses everyone!

• Marinate Longer for Depth of Flavor: Letting the salmon marinate for up to an hour allows the flavors from the marinade to penetrate deeply, enhancing the taste of your dish.

• Use Fresh Peaches for Best Results: Fresh peaches add a bright, juicy sweetness that complements the salmon beautifully. Canned peaches can work in a pinch, but fresh will elevate your dish.

• Monitor Cooking Time Closely: Salmon can dry out quickly if overcooked. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness at 12 minutes; you want it tender and flaky!

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices like red pepper flakes or even add a touch of ginger for an extra kick. Personalizing the marinade can make this dish uniquely yours.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the cooked salmon to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain its juices, leading to a more succulent bite.

How to Serve Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Presenting your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon in an appealing way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to drizzle some citrus over their salmon for added zing.
• Toasted Almonds: A light scattering of toasted almonds offers a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet peaches.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon while adding a refreshing element.

• Roasted Asparagus: The slight bitterness of roasted asparagus balances perfectly with the sweet glaze from the bourbon peach marinade. Just drizzle with olive oil and roast until tender.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort and richness, making them an excellent partner for your salmon dish.

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds color to your plate but also brings a nutritional punch without overpowering the main flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon dinner will surely be memorable! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the marinade in advance and marinate the salmon ahead of time for a flavorful dinner that’s almost effortless to finish.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salmon and peaches in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently to preserve moisture and flavor.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the salmon and peaches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Cover loosely with foil and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon:

Can I use other fruits instead of peaches?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses peaches, you can experiment with other fruits like mangoes or apricots for a delightful twist.

How do I ensure my Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is cooked perfectly?

To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!

What’s the best way to serve Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

Serve your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon alongside rice or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that highlights its sweet and savory flavors.

Can I make the marinade without bourbon?

Yes! Substitute bourbon with apple juice or peach nectar for a non-alcoholic alternative that still delivers great flavor.

How long should I marinate my salmon?

Marinate your salmon for at least 30 minutes to up to one hour. This allows all those delicious flavors to infuse into the fish beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon as much as I do! This dish brings together sweet and savory notes that create a memorable meal. Don’t hesitate to get creative with sides or variations. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with joy and delicious aromas!