Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, then Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is the one for you! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home. The combination of savory salmon and sweet peaches creates a symphony of flavors that warms the heart and fills the belly. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family, this dish shines on any table.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare! You get the satisfaction of serving something gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner ready in no time!
• Flavor Explosion: The bourbon peach marinade caramelizes beautifully, resulting in a glaze that adds an irresistible sweetness to the salmon.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this dish. It’s perfect for introducing new flavors without overwhelming picky eaters.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for casual dinners or elegant meals, this recipe fits any occasion.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with nutrients from salmon and fresh peaches, it’s a delicious way to nourish your loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this mouthwatering Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon. Each component plays an important role in crafting the rich flavor profile of this dish.

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

For Serving

• 2 medium peaches (pitted, thinly sliced)
• parsley (for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast or firm tofu instead of salmon for a different twist.
• Add herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor even more—just sprinkle them over the salmon before baking.
• Go tropical: Substitute peach preserves with mango or pineapple preserves for a fruity flair.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the marinade for an extra kick!

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. This marinade is where all the magic happens—it infuses flavor into both the salmon and peaches. Set aside half of it for later; we’ll use it to enhance our dish right before serving.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets in a resealable plastic bag and pour in half of your delicious marinade. Seal it tightly and give it a gentle shake to ensure every piece is well-coated. Letting it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows those flavors to meld beautifully into the fish.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

While your salmon is soaking up all those wonderful flavors, preheat your oven to 375°F. This step ensures that once we transfer our skillet inside later on, it’s hot enough for perfect cooking.

Step 4: Sear the Salmon

Heat some olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot enough (you’ll know by seeing small ripples), carefully place your marinated salmon fillets skin side up into the skillet. Searing them for about 2-3 minutes creates that beautiful golden crust while locking in moisture.

Step 5: Add Peaches

Now it’s time to flip those fillets so they’re skin side down! Add those freshly sliced peaches around them in the skillet. As they cook together for another 2-3 minutes, they’ll soften and become sweeter—this is where your dish really starts coming together!

Step 6: Pour in Remaining Marinade

Remove your skillet from heat and pour that reserved marinade all over the salmon and peaches. This glaze will give everything an incredible shine while adding layers of flavor as it cooks further.

Step 7: Bake It Up

Carefully transfer your skillet into that preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes—check at around 12 minutes until your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This ensures it’s perfectly cooked but still tender and flaky.

Step 8: Serve

Once cooked through, remove your skillet from the oven and serve immediately! Garnish with fresh parsley for that pop of color and enjoy every bite of this delightful Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon with family or friends!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Cooking can be a breeze with the right techniques, and these tips will help you perfect your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon!

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes helps infuse the fish with all those delicious flavors from the peach and bourbon marinade, ensuring each bite is full of taste.

• Sear Before Baking: Searing the salmon skin side up before transferring it to the oven not only gives it a beautiful golden crust but also locks in moisture, keeping the fish tender and juicy throughout cooking.

• Check for Doneness: Using a meat thermometer can take the guesswork out of cooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure that your salmon is cooked perfectly without overdoing it.

• Use Fresh Peaches: Fresh peaches bring a natural sweetness and vibrant flavor that complements the dish beautifully. If peaches are out of season, consider using frozen peaches—just be sure to thaw them before cooking.

• Save Some Marinade: By reserving half of the marinade, you can create a flavorful glaze that enhances both the salmon and peaches when baked. This extra step adds depth to your dish.

How to Serve Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Serving this delightful dish is as important as preparing it! Here are some creative ideas to present your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, garlic mashed potatoes provide a perfect balance to the sweet and savory notes of the salmon.

• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled until tender-crisp, asparagus adds a nice crunch while complementing the richness of the salmon.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs well with this dish, adding texture and nutrition.

• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds vibrant color to your plate while being an excellent source of vitamins.

Enjoy crafting a meal that not only delights your taste buds but also impresses your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this dish ahead of time, and with proper storage, it will stay fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover salmon to cool completely.
• Place in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual portions of the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat salmon in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave on low power in short intervals until heated.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon that you might have!

Can I substitute the bourbon in Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

Yes! If you prefer to avoid bourbon, you can use apple juice or peach nectar as a sweet and fruity alternative in the marinade.

How do I know when my Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is done?

The salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout.

What sides pair well with Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, steamed asparagus, or wild rice to complement its flavors and textures.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before marinating and cooking for the best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors that’s perfect for any dinner occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and joy!