Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

If you’re looking for a dish that combines sweet and savory in the most delightful way, then look no further than Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household, and I can’t wait to share it with you! The combination of juicy peaches and rich salmon creates a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s not just delicious; it also brings a touch of warmth and comfort to the table.

What makes this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon so special is the caramelized glaze that forms as the salmon cooks. When you take that first bite, you’ll be greeted with a burst of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s an easy recipe to whip up, making it a go-to option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The sweet peaches combined with savory salmon make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the salmon earlier in the day or even the night before; it only gets better with time!
• Delicious Flavor: The unique bourbon peach marinade adds an irresistible glossy finish and mouthwatering taste to the dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. Just imagine how these fresh flavors will come together!

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 Cooking

• 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, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences!

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of salmon, try using chicken breasts instead. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
• Change up the fruit: Instead of peaches, use apricots or nectarines for a different twist that still complements the marinade beautifully.
• Add herbs: Toss in some fresh thyme or rosemary while cooking for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor profile.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or incorporate some diced jalapeños into your marinade.

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 step is crucial as it creates a delicious marinade that will infuse flavor into your salmon. Set aside half of this mixture (about ¾ cup) to use later.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets in a resealable plastic bag and pour in the remaining half of your marinade. Seal the bag tightly and give it a gentle shake to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Letting the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes allows those flavors to penetrate deeply into the fish.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F. A properly heated oven ensures even cooking throughout your salmon fillets while allowing those lovely peaches to caramelize perfectly.

Step 4: Sear the Salmon

In an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add oil until it shimmers. Carefully place your marinated salmon fillets skin side up in the skillet. Searing them for about 2-3 minutes gives them that beautiful golden crust while sealing in moisture—this step is key for achieving juicy salmon!

Step 5: Add Peaches

Once you’ve flipped your salmon skin-side down after searing them nicely, it’s time to add those sliced peaches around them in the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly. This will allow their sweetness to meld beautifully with the savory flavors of your salmon.

Step 6: Incorporate Reserved Marinade

Now comes one of my favorite parts! Remove your skillet from heat and pour in the reserved peach marinade evenly over both your salmon and peaches. This will create an incredible glaze as everything cooks together.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer your skillet directly into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Check at around 12 minutes to ensure everything is cooked through—your salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Step 8: Serve Up

Once done baking, take your skillet out of the oven (it’ll be hot!) and serve this beautiful roasted peach and salmon dish immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired—you deserve all those lovely presentation points!

Enjoy every bite of this flavorful Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Creating the perfect Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure you get the best flavor and texture!

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour if you have time. This helps the flavors penetrate the fish, resulting in a more delicious and flavorful dish.

• Use Fresh Peaches: Opt for ripe, fresh peaches rather than canned ones. Fresh peaches add a wonderful sweetness and texture that complements the salmon beautifully.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Salmon can easily overcook, so keep an eye on it as it bakes. Check for doneness at 12 minutes, and remember that residual heat will continue to cook it even after it’s out of the oven.

• Experiment with Marinade Variations: Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients based on what you have on hand. For example, you can swap out apple cider vinegar for lemon juice or use a different mustard variety to create your unique twist.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: After removing the skillet from the oven, allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes. This helps retain moisture and enhances its tenderness.

How to Serve Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Serving your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon can be as delightful as making it! Here are some presentation ideas that will impress your family and friends:

Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their salmon, enhancing the flavors even further.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving provides an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with both salmon and peaches.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that balances the sweet and savory elements of the salmon.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a crunchy contrast while adding vibrant color.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs is not only nutritious but also complements the richness of the salmon.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts provide an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with the sweet peach glaze.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon will be not just a meal but an experience! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salmon and peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Be sure to separate the salmon from the marinade to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the leftovers, wrap each salmon filet tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the salmon and peaches in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Have some questions about this delicious dish? We’ve got you covered!

Can I use different types of fish instead of salmon for Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

Absolutely! While salmon is rich and flavorful, you can substitute with other firm fish like trout or even chicken if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

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

The best way to check is by using a food thermometer; your salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should also be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Can I marinate Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight will enhance the flavors even more! Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the fish may become too soft.

What sides pair well with Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

Consider serving this dish with quinoa salad, steamed vegetables, or a light green salad for a balanced meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon—it’s truly special! The combination of sweet peaches and savory salmon creates a delightful experience that’s perfect for any dinner occasion. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations. Happy cooking!