Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

If you’re looking for a dish that feels special yet is simple enough for a weeknight dinner, then Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon might just be your new go-to! This recipe combines the delightful flavors of sweet peaches and a rich marinade that caramelizes beautifully as it cooks. It’s perfect for family gatherings or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me; this dish will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

I’ve been making this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon for years, and it never fails to bring smiles to the table. The way the salmon fillets soak up the peachy goodness while the slices of fresh peaches soften and release their juices is something truly magical. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: This dish comes together quickly with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of sweet and savory flavors appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the salmon ahead of time for an even easier cooking experience later on.
• Fresh Ingredients: With wholesome ingredients like peaches and salmon, you can feel good about what you’re serving.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and delicious aroma will make you feel like a gourmet chef at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this recipe are simple, wholesome, and easy to find! You probably have many of them in your pantry already. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon.

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations that can add a personal touch.

• Swap the protein: If salmon isn’t your favorite, try using chicken breasts or tofu instead. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Add more fruits: Experiment with different fruits like plums or apricots for a unique twist on flavor.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit more heat, throw in some chopped jalapeños or use spicy mustard in place of Dijon.
• Herb infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish with additional layers of flavor.

How to Make Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing all those wonderful marinade ingredients together! In a medium bowl, combine peach preserves, bourbon, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This mixture not only flavors the salmon but also helps create that delectable glaze as it cooks. Remember to set aside half for later!

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Next, place your salmon filets in a resealable plastic bag. Pour in half of that yummy marinade we just made. Seal it up tight and gently shake until all the salmon is coated. This step is crucial because marinating allows those flavors to really penetrate the fish. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—or up to an hour if you have time!

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

When you’re ready to cook, don’t forget to preheat your oven to 375°F. A hot oven ensures even cooking and helps achieve that lovely caramelization we’re after.

Step 4: Sear the Salmon

Heat up some oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add those marinated salmon fillets skin side up. Searing them gives a beautiful golden color while locking in moisture—so don’t skip this step! After about 2-3 minutes flip them over so they can sear skin-side down too.

Step 5: Add Peaches

Now it’s time to introduce our lovely sliced peaches into the skillet alongside the salmon. They will soften nicely while soaking up all those delicious juices from the fish. Cook them together for another couple of minutes until everything starts looking irresistible.

Step 6: Pour on Reserved Marinade

Once you’ve got that sizzling action going on in your skillet, take it off heat. Carefully pour in the reserved peach marinade evenly over both salmon and peaches—this will create a fantastic glaze as they finish cooking.

Step 7: Bake It All Together

Transfer your skillet into that preheated oven! Bake for about 12-15 minutes—or until your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. I recommend checking around that 12-minute mark just to make sure we don’t overcook our precious fish.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

After baking perfection has been achieved, take your skillet out of the oven and serve immediately! Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, especially when trying your hand at this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon recipe! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Marinate Longer for Flavor: Allowing the salmon to marinate for up to an hour enhances the flavor. It allows the marinade to penetrate the fish, ensuring every bite is infused with that delicious bourbon peach goodness.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh peaches and high-quality olive oil. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also elevate the overall quality of your dish, making it even more enjoyable.

• Monitor the Temperature: Keep an eye on the internal temperature of your salmon. Cooking it to precisely 145°F ensures it’s tender and flaky without being dry, leading to a perfectly cooked piece of fish.

• Sear for Texture: Searing the salmon skin-side down creates a delightful crispy texture. This adds a beautiful contrast to the soft, juicy peaches and glaze, making every bite irresistible.

• Experiment with Marinade Variations: Feel free to customize the marinade by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. This can introduce new flavors and make the dish uniquely yours!

How to Serve Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside invites guests to add a squeeze of citrus for extra brightness and acidity.
• Chili Flakes: A light dusting of chili flakes can enhance visual appeal and add just a hint of spice for those who enjoy a little kick!

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the salmon’s sweetness while providing a hearty texture.
• Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor from grilled asparagus complements the caramelized peaches perfectly, adding both color and crunch to your plate.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a comforting side that balances out the dish’s sweetness while providing necessary nutrients.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: For a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, garlic mashed cauliflower brings creaminess without all the carbs, allowing the salmon flavors to shine through.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set for an unforgettable dining experience featuring Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time during busy weekdays.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover salmon and peaches in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 10 minutes).
• Alternatively, use a microwave on low power, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Have some questions about Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon? You’re not alone!

Can I make Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon without bourbon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bourbon with apple juice or white grape juice for a sweet touch without alcohol.

What should I serve with Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad. The caramelized peach flavor enhances any side dish!

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 and flakes easily with a fork. Use a meat thermometer for best results.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon as much as I do! It’s not only a delightful blend of flavors but also an easy dish that can impress family and friends alike. Remember, cooking should be fun and rewarding—so get in there, embrace the joy of preparing this meal, and savor every bite. Happy cooking!