Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

If you’re looking for a dish that combines vibrant flavors with simplicity, then you’re in for a treat with Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon. This recipe is not only delicious but also brings a touch of sophistication to your dinner table. Imagine tender salmon fillets glazed with a sweet peach marinade, paired with juicy peaches that caramelize beautifully. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

I love this dish because it strikes the ideal balance between ease and elegance. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a meal that feels special enough for guests yet is easy enough to make any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon can be on your table in under an hour, making it great for busy evenings.
• Sweet and Savory: The combination of peaches and salmon creates a delightful flavor profile that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the sweetness of the peaches paired with savory salmon, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to fancy gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the salmon ahead of time to make your evening easy and relaxed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon. Each one plays a part in bringing out those lovely flavors we all adore.

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 wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize it based on what you have or prefer:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of salmon, try using chicken breasts or tofu for a tasty alternative.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during cooking for an extra boost of nutrients and color.
• Experiment with spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor complexity.
• Change up the fruit: Substitute peaches with other fruits like mango or pineapple for a different twist!

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, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mixing these ingredients together creates a flavorful marinade that will enhance the salmon’s natural taste. Remember to set aside half of it for later; it will become our delicious glaze.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets in a resealable plastic bag and pour in the remaining marinade. Seal it up and give it a good shake! Letting the salmon soak in this mixture for at least 30 minutes allows those beautiful flavors to penetrate deeply into the fish.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Before you start cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and perfectly when it’s time to bake.

Step 4: Sear the Salmon

In an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add oil until hot. Carefully place those marinated salmon fillets skin side up into the skillet. Searing them adds such a lovely golden crust that enhances both flavor and presentation!

Step 5: Flip & Add Peaches

Once you’ve seared one side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, flip those fillets so they are skin side down. Now it’s time to add sliced peaches! Cooking them alongside allows them to soften and release their juices into the pan—a match made in heaven with our salmon!

Step 6: Pour on the Marinade

Remove the skillet from heat and pour your reserved marinade all over those gorgeous salmon fillets and juicy peaches. This step is crucial as it adds an amazing glaze while baking!

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Transfer your skillet into that preheated oven and let it bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it after 12 minutes; you want that internal temperature of your salmon to reach around 145°F—perfectly cooked!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once it’s done baking, take out your skillet (be careful—it’ll be hot!), and serve this beautiful Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon dish immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like! Enjoy every flavorful bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create the most delicious Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon!

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Allowing the salmon to marinate for a full hour will deepen the flavors, making your dish more savory and aromatic.
• Use Fresh Peaches: Fresh peaches not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful presentation. If they’re in season, go for it!
• Preheat Your Skillet: Ensuring your skillet is hot before adding the salmon helps achieve that perfect sear, locking in moisture and flavors.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a food thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches 145°F. This guarantees it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
• Don’t Skip the Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even some thinly sliced green onions can brighten up your plate and provide a pop of color.

How to Serve Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Presenting your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon beautifully can elevate any meal from simple to spectacular! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve this dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh touch and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sliced Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a subtle crunch and a hint of sharpness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the peaches.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: Light and fluffy quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs and seasonal vegetables makes a hearty side that pairs well with the sweetness of the glaze.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower infused with garlic offers a comforting addition that has fewer carbs than traditional mashed potatoes.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with lemon juice brings brightness to the meal, balancing the richness of the salmon.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds crunch and vibrancy to your plate.

Enjoy creating this beautiful dish! Each bite of Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon combined with these sides will surely delight your taste buds. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the salmon ahead of time or even cook it in advance for easy weeknight dinners. Here’s how to store and manage leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salmon and peaches in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the reserved marinade separate if you plan to use it as a sauce later.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the cooked salmon, allow it to cool completely first.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• The salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights salmon for its rich flavor, you can easily substitute with trout or even chicken. Just adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of your protein.

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

The best way to check is by using a food thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked.

What makes this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon recipe special?

This dish combines the sweetness of peaches with a savory marinade, creating a deliciously balanced flavor that elevates simple salmon into something extraordinary. It’s a delightful treat for any occasion!

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This makes meal prep even easier!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a beautiful way. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish will surely impress your guests. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your thoughts! Happy cooking!