Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as delightful to serve as it is to eat, then Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is just the thing. This recipe has a special place in my heart because it combines the richness of salmon with the sweet allure of peaches and a lovely marinade that transforms through cooking. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply treating yourself on a busy weeknight, this dish strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort.

The best part? It’s easy to prepare! With just a few simple ingredients and some time to marinate, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without all the fuss. Trust me, once you’ve made this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon, it will become a beloved staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet peaches and tangy marinade makes every bite bursting with flavor.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can shine in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate ahead of time for an effortless meal when you’re ready to cook.
• Healthy Option: Packed with omega-3s from salmon, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking so much more enjoyable! Here’s what you’ll need for your 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 Main Dish

• 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! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some great ideas:

• Swap the protein: Instead of salmon, try using chicken breast or tofu for a different take on this dish.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or asparagus alongside the peaches for added color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: For those who like heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the marinade.
• Try different fruit: If peaches aren’t in season, use nectarines or plums for a similarly sweet touch.

How to Make Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Step 1: Make the Marinade

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 marinates your salmon beautifully and creates that delicious glaze we’re going for. Remember to set aside half of this mixture for later!

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets into a resealable plastic bag and pour in half of that marvelous marinade. Seal it up tight and give it a gentle shake to coat each piece thoroughly. Letting it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows those flavors to really seep into the fish.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

While your salmon is soaking up all those good flavors, go ahead and preheat your oven to 375°F. A hot oven ensures even cooking and helps caramelize your marinade perfectly.

Step 4: Sear the Salmon

In an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add oil until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully place your marinated salmon fillets skin side up into the skillet. Searing them for about 2-3 minutes helps lock in those juices while giving you that gorgeous golden-brown crust.

Step 5: Add Peaches

Flip those fillets so they’re skin side down now—this is where they get nice and crispy! Add in those lovely slices of peach around the salmon. Cooking them together allows their sweetness to permeate everything in the skillet.

Step 6: Pour in Reserved Marinade

Take off your skillet from heat once everything looks good to go. Pour that reserved peach marinade all over the salmon and peaches evenly. This adds moisture during baking and enhances flavor!

Step 7: Bake It All Together

Carefully transfer your skillet into that preheated oven. Bake it all together for about 12-15 minutes—check at around 12 minutes until your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The result should be perfectly cooked fish with tender peaches bursting with flavor.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Once out of the oven, let everything rest just long enough before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like for an added touch of freshness! Enjoy your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon right away—it’s sure to impress anyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Cooking this delicious dish can be a breeze with a few helpful tips!

• Choose the Right Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Wild-caught salmon often has a richer flavor and better texture than farmed varieties, enhancing your dish’s overall taste.

• Marinate Longer for Flavor: If you have time, marinating the salmon for up to an hour allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the fish, resulting in a more flavorful meal.

• Monitor Cooking Time Carefully: Salmon can go from perfectly cooked to overdone quickly. Keep an eye on the internal temperature and aim for 145°F—this ensures you maintain its moisture and tenderness.

• Use Fresh Peaches When Possible: Fresh peaches will provide a natural sweetness and juicy texture that complements the salmon beautifully. If out of season, frozen peaches can work in a pinch but may alter texture slightly.

• Experiment with Spice Levels: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat. A little extra kick can add an exciting dimension to the glaze!

How to Serve Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Serving this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some ideas to make your meal shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that balances the sweetness of the dish.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty touch if they desire, enhancing the flavors even further.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the sweetness of the salmon while adding healthy grains to your meal.

• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic and olive oil offer a crunchy contrast that complements the soft texture of both the salmon and peaches.

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes beautifully with the peach glaze, making them an ideal side dish choice.

• Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette provides a crisp counterpoint to the richness of the salmon, creating balance on your plate.

Enjoy your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon experience! Each bite is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for later enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salmon and peaches to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It’s best to freeze the salmon without the peaches to maintain texture.
• Use within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

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

Can I use other fruits instead of peaches for the Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

Absolutely! While peaches add a lovely sweetness, you can substitute them with nectarines, apricots, or even plums. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as needed.

How long should I marinate the salmon for Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

For the best flavor, marinate your salmon for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour. This allows the marinade to penetrate and infuse your fish with delicious flavors.

What should I serve with Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. The sweet glaze complements savory sides beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon! Its delightful combination of sweet peaches and savory salmon creates a meal that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with family and friends!