Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of marinated salmon with the sweetness of peaches. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. The unique bourbon peach marinade creates a beautiful glaze that caramelizes as it cooks, making each bite a mouthwatering experience. If you’re looking for an impressive yet simple main course, this recipe will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The combination of peach preserves and spices creates a sweet and savory marinade that enhances the salmon’s natural flavor.
• Easy Preparation – With minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile – Perfect for serving at parties or as a weeknight meal, this dish pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables.
• Healthy Option – Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will make preparation quick and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Resealable plastic bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet – Ideal for searing salmon and transferring directly to the oven for roasting.
• Mixing bowl – Perfect for combining ingredients without spills.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures precise measurements for consistent flavor every time.
• Resealable plastic bag – Excellent for marinating the salmon evenly.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• ¾ cup (240 g) peach preserves
• ¼ cup (56 g) fruit juice (for 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)

How to Make Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine peach preserves, fruit juice, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This will yield approximately 1 ½ cups of marinade. Set aside half of the mixture (about ¾ cup) and refrigerate it for later use.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a resealable plastic bag and pour in the remaining half of the marinade. Seal the bag and mix well to coat the salmon. Place the bag in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 4: Sear the Salmon

In a medium oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add oil. Once hot, carefully place the marinated salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side up. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they are seared and golden brown.

Step 5: Add Peaches

Flip over the salmon fillets so that their skin side is down. Add sliced peaches to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until peaches soften slightly and salmon skin sears further.

Step 6: Add Marinade Back In

Remove the skillet from heat. Pour reserved peach marinade into the skillet evenly over both salmon and peaches.

Step 7: Bake in Oven

Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 12-15 minutes; check at 12 minutes. Ensure that salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 8: Serve

Once cooked through, remove from oven and serve your delightful Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon immediately!

How to Serve Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Pairing it with the right accompaniments will elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.

Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette complements the salmon’s sweetness perfectly.

Grilled Vegetables

• Seasonal grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, add a smoky flavor that balances the dish’s richness.

Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs provides a great base for soaking up the delicious peach marinade. Try adding almonds or raisins for an extra touch.

Couscous

• Light and fluffy couscous seasoned with lemon zest makes for a delightful side that pairs well with the sweet and savory notes of the salmon.

Quinoa Salad

• A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, mint, and feta cheese offers a nutritious contrast to the rich salmon.

Crusty Bread

• Serve warm crusty bread on the side for dipping into the peach glaze. It adds texture and enhances the overall meal experience.

How to Perfect Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

To ensure your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips that will enhance flavor and presentation.

• Choose fresh salmon – Selecting high-quality salmon will make a noticeable difference in taste. Look for vibrant color and firm texture.
• Marinate adequately – Letting the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes helps infuse flavors deeply into the fish, resulting in a juicier bite.
• Preheat your skillet – Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon. This ensures a perfect sear on the skin, making it crispy and delicious.
• Monitor cooking time – Overcooking can dry out salmon. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 145°F is ideal for fully cooked salmon.
• Use seasonal peaches – Fresh peaches are key to achieving that sweet glaze. Opt for ripe peaches when they are in season for better flavor.
• Garnish creatively – Adding fresh parsley or other herbs not only enhances presentation but also adds freshness to each bite of your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Pairing side dishes with Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon can truly enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a rich backdrop that complements the peach marinade beautifully.
2. Sautéed Spinach – Lightly sautéed spinach with olive oil and garlic offers a nutritious touch without overpowering the main flavors of the salmon.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes bring out natural sweetness while providing fiber. Toss with olive oil and spices before roasting for added flavor.
4. Zucchini Noodles – These low-carb noodles can be sautéed lightly and tossed with lemon juice for a refreshing side that pairs well with the dish’s richness.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and crunch. Serve it brushed with herb butter for an extra indulgent touch.
6. Wild Rice Salad – A wild rice salad mixed with cranberries, nuts, and herbs offers texture and complements the sweet-savory profile of the salmon nicely.
7. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli provides color and nutrients while maintaining a lightness that contrasts well with richer sides.
8. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – A hearty chickpea salad packed with veggies brings protein and fiber to your meal while balancing out flavors effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating the salmon properly is key to achieving the best flavor in Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing enough time for the salmon to marinate can result in a lack of flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, preferably an hour.
• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking salmon too long can lead to a dry texture. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F.
• Neglecting the peaches: Forgetting to add peaches or not slicing them thinly can leave them undercooked. Ensure they are sliced thinly for quick cooking and softening.
• Using too much salt: Adding excessive salt can overpower the dish’s sweetness. Follow the recipe measurements carefully.
• Not reserving marinade: Discarding all the marinade instead of reserving some for later can lead to missed flavor opportunities. Always set aside half before marinating.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

• Place cooled salmon and peach mixture in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place salmon in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, cooking for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of salmon is best for Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

Wild-caught salmon like sockeye or coho offers great flavor and texture. Farmed salmon also works well but may have a slightly different taste.

Can I use other fruits besides peaches?

Yes! You can experiment with apricots or nectarines for similar flavors that complement the marinade beautifully.

How do I customize Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

Feel free to adjust spices or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor according to your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

Absolutely! Substitute with coconut aminos or simply omit it if you prefer a lower sodium option.

What should I serve with Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad, making it a versatile choice for dinner.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory elements beautifully. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily with various fruits and spices. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its rich flavors!