This tasty bourbon peach roasted salmon brings together sweet peaches and zesty bourbon for a delightful meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner.
Honestly, who can resist that beautiful caramelized topping? I could eat this salmon every night! Pair it with a simple salad for a fresh twist. You won’t regret trying this!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is key for this dish. If you can’t find salmon, try using trout or even chicken breasts for a different but still delicious option. They won’t taste quite the same, but they’ll absorb those flavors well!
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness and texture. If they aren’t in season, feel free to substitute canned peaches—just make sure to drain them well. For a twist, try nectarines or plums for a similar effect.
Bourbon: This is where the unique flavor comes from! If you don’t have bourbon, whiskey can work too. For a non-alcoholic version, use apple juice mixed with a splash of vanilla extract.
Soy Sauce: While soy sauce adds umami, tamari is a good gluten-free alternative. Coconut aminos works as a sweeter, low-sodium option as well.
How Do I Get the Perfect Glaze on My Salmon?
The glaze is what makes this dish shine. To achieve a beautifully caramelized finish, follow these steps:
- Whisk the marinade well to combine all ingredients evenly. This will help in creating a good glaze.
- Let the salmon marinate for at least 10-15 minutes if possible. The longer it sits, the more flavor it absorbs.
- During roasting, brush the salmon with the pan juices a couple of times. This helps in building that nice glossy glaze.
- Watch your roasting time closely! Salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork but isn’t overcooked.
Enjoy cooking and serving this flavorful dish! The combination of bourbon and peaches really makes the salmon sing.
Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Optional Sides:
- Steamed asparagus or green vegetables
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. You’ll want to marinate the salmon for around 10-15 minutes, so plan a total of about 40 minutes to get this delicious dish on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your oven is hot enough to cook the salmon perfectly.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. This marinade will give your salmon lots of flavor!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Take your roasting pan or an oven-safe skillet and place the salmon fillets in it. Then, arrange the sliced peaches and shallots around the salmon. This not only looks great but also adds flavor to the dish.
4. Add the Marinade:
Pour the bourbon mixture evenly over the salmon fillets and the peach slices. Make sure the salmon is well coated for the best flavor!
5. Marinate:
If you have a little extra time, let the salmon marinate for 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors infuse into the fish.
6. Roast the Salmon:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 12-15 minutes. The salmon should be cooked through and flake easily with a fork, while the peaches should be tender and caramelized.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and spoon some of the delicious pan juices over the top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch.
8. Enjoy:
Serve your bourbon peach roasted salmon immediately, alongside steamed asparagus or your favorite green vegetables. Dig in and enjoy the wonderful flavors!
With every bite, you’ll taste the sweet and smoky blend of flavors that makes this dish so special. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to fully thaw it beforehand! Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick method by placing sealed salmon in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before marinating for the best results.
What if I Can’t Find Fresh Peaches?
If fresh peaches aren’t available, canned or frozen peaches can be a great substitute. Just make sure to drain and pat them dry if using canned ones, or thaw and drain if using frozen. They should still caramelize nicely when roasted!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. It’s a great time-saver, and the flavors will meld even more, enhancing your dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist.
