This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is a tasty dish that combines sweet peaches and a splash of bourbon for a unique flavor. The salmon cooks to perfection, making it juicy and delicious!
Don’t be surprised if your friends ask for the recipe—they’ll love it! I personally enjoy serving it with a side of rice to soak up that sweet sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe, especially those with skin. If you’re looking for a more economical option, you can also use frozen salmon—just thaw it overnight in the fridge. I prefer wild-caught salmon for its better flavor!
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches add a lovely sweetness. If peaches aren’t in season, feel free to use canned peaches in juice. Just make sure to drain them well before using. I love the freshness of ripe peaches, but canned peaches are a nice alternative.
Bourbon: Bourbon brings a unique depth of flavor. If you want to omit alcohol, replace it with apple cider vinegar or peach juice for a similar flavor profile. I often use a bourbon that I enjoy sipping on—killing two birds with one stone!
Onion: A sweet onion, like Vidalia or a yellow onion, works best here. If you’re short on onions, leeks or shallots can make a good substitute. They add a nice flavor without being overpowering.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it right every time! Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature (400°F/200°C) to start on the right foot.
- After pouring the bourbon glaze over the salmon, let it marinate for about 15 minutes to infuse flavor. This step enhances the taste!
- Keep an eye on the cooking time—15 to 20 minutes usually does the trick. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
- If you’re uncertain, using a meat thermometer is great; it should register 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This final touch allows the juices to settle, making it more succulent.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked salmon with a delightful glaze every time!
Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 (1.5 to 2 lbs) salmon fillet, skin on
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons bourbon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes to cook. Plus, if you have time, marinating the salmon for 15 minutes adds great flavor. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes until you’re enjoying your delicious plate of Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon will roast beautifully right from the start!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the bourbon, olive oil, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. This flavorful marinade will make your salmon and peaches sing!
3. Assemble the Dish:
Take a baking dish or oven-safe skillet and place the salmon fillet in it. Arrange the sliced peaches and thinly sliced onion around the salmon, making it look colorful and inviting.
4. Add the Marinade:
Pour the bourbon glaze evenly over the salmon and peaches. Make sure the salmon is well coated with this tasty mixture!
5. Marinate (if time permits):
If you can, let the salmon marinate in the glaze for about 15 minutes. This enhances the flavor even more!
6. Roast the Salmon:
Put the dish in your preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork, and the peaches should be soft and caramelized.
7. Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and lemon slices. This adds a nice touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon immediately by spooning some of the pan juices and peaches over the salmon. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors!
Now you’re all set to enjoy this flavorful and juicy Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with other fruits like nectarines, apricots, or even sliced apples. Just make sure they are ripe and sweet for the best flavor in the dish.
What Type of Salmon Should I Use?
Fresh salmon fillets are perfect for this recipe, particularly wild-caught varieties for their rich taste. If fresh isn’t available, frozen salmon works too—just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade and coat the salmon with it up to a day in advance. Just store the marinated salmon covered in the fridge until ready to cook. This can help the flavors develop even more!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to prevent the salmon from drying out. Adding a splash of water or some more glaze can help keep it moist!