This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is a tasty dish that combines juicy peaches with a hint of bourbon glaze. It’s sweet, savory, and oh-so-easy to make!
The peaches get all caramelized in the oven, making the salmon super flavorful. I love serving it with rice or a fresh salad. Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this dish, but you can substitute with other fish like trout or even chicken if you’re looking for alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness, but if they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches in juice or frozen peaches. Just make sure they are drained well if using canned.
Bourbon: For those avoiding alcohol, try substituting bourbon with apple juice or peach nectar for a fruity flavor. You could also use a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist.
Dijon Mustard: If you’re not a fan of Dijon, honey mustard or yellow mustard work well as substitutes. You can also skip it for a simpler glaze.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely smoky flavor, but regular paprika or chili powder is a good alternative. Just keep in mind it will lose some of that smokiness.
How Do I Make Sure My Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting perfectly cooked salmon can be tricky, but it’s all about timing and temperature! Here’s how to ensure your salmon is just right:
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; 12-15 minutes at 400°F is usually perfect. If you have thicker fillets, you might need to add a few more minutes.
- Check for doneness by gently pressing down with a fork. If it flakes easily, it’s ready! If it feels too firm, give it just a bit more time.
- To retain moisture, avoid overcooking as dry salmon is less enjoyable. You want it to be just cooked through, still tender and juicy!
How to Make Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6-8 ounces each), skin removed
For the Peaches:
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
For the Bourbon Glaze:
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Time Needed to Prepare:
This dish will take about 30 minutes total—10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and about 15-20 minutes to roast. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to roast the salmon and peaches perfectly.
2. Make the Bourbon Peach Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed. This glaze will add a fantastic depth of flavor!
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet and place the salmon fillets in the center. Arrange the peach slices around the salmon, tucking some under the fillets if you can. This will help keep the salmon moist and add flavor from all sides!
4. Coat the Salmon:
Pour the bourbon peach glaze evenly over the salmon and peaches, making sure the salmon is well coated. Don’t be shy with it; the glaze is what makes this dish so tasty!
5. Roast the Dish:
Put the baking dish in your preheated oven. Roast for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork and the peaches are tender and caramelized. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overcook!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Spoon some of the delicious pan juices over the salmon for extra flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon immediately with sides of your choice, like fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Bon appétit! This dish is sure to impress your family and friends! 😋
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking. You can thaw salmon overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you’d prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice, peach nectar, or even a splash of vinegar for a tangy flavor. These alternatives will still add a nice sweetness to the glaze.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave gently, being careful not to overcook it to maintain its moisture.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like nectarines or plums, or add vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers. Just make sure they have similar cooking times to ensure everything is perfectly roasted.