Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the flavors of sweet peaches with tender salmon. This recipe is ideal for various occasions, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The standout feature of this dish is the caramelized glaze formed by the marinade, which enhances the salmon’s flavor while the peaches add a refreshing sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal prep and cook time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of peach preserves and savory ingredients creates a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful peaches and glistening salmon make for an eye-catching centerpiece on your dinner table.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet: Ideal for searing and then transferring directly to the oven to finish cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining your marinade ingredients efficiently.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient proportions for balanced flavors.
• Resealable plastic bag: Perfect for marinating the salmon evenly without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• ¾ cup (240 g) peach preserves
• ¼ cup (56 g) fruit juice (as an alternative to 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 fillets (about 1½ pounds, skins on)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

For Garnish

• 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, 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. Pour in the remaining half of the marinade. Seal the bag and mix well to coat all sides of the salmon. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 hour.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F.

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 until seared and golden brown.

Step 5: Add Peaches

Flip over the salmon fillets so that the skin side is down. Add sliced peaches to your skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until peaches soften slightly and salmon skin crisps up.

Step 6: Combine Marinade and Transfer to Oven

Remove skillet from heat. Pour reserved peach marinade evenly over salmon and peaches. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 12-15 more minutes—check at 12 minutes—until salmon is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.

Step 8: Serve

Once cooked, remove from oven and serve immediately with additional garnish as desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon!

How to Serve Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Serving Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon can elevate your dining experience by pairing it with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some suggestions to make your meal even more delightful.

Pair with Fresh Greens

• Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh, zesty contrast.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad: Combine baby spinach with sliced strawberries, walnuts, and a light balsamic dressing for a sweet and savory balance.

Accompany with Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and vegetables makes a healthy and filling side.
• Wild Rice Blend: A mix of wild rice adds an earthy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of peaches.

Add Some Crunch

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar provide a delicious crunch.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries seasoned with paprika offer a hint of sweetness that complements the salmon’s glaze.

Best Side Dishes for Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

When planning your meal, consider these side dishes that pair beautifully with Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon. Each option enhances flavors while offering variety.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting base for your salmon.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds vibrant color and fresh flavor to your plate.
3. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs offers a delightful contrast.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed adds a low-carb option that complements the dish’s sweetness.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn provides natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with peach flavors.
6. Cauliflower Rice: This light alternative to traditional rice absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent companion to salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating the salmon for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate. Don’t rush this step for the best taste.
• Using the wrong skillet: An oven-safe skillet is crucial for this recipe. Using a regular skillet can lead to uneven cooking and mess.
• Overcooking the salmon: Salmon should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Skipping the reserved marinade: The reserved marinade adds essential flavor when poured over the dish before baking. Don’t forget this step!
• Ignoring peach ripeness: Using ripe peaches enhances sweetness and juiciness. Check your peaches before slicing to ensure they are at their best.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, place the salmon in a baking dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with a paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon.

How can I customize Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

You can swap peaches with other fruits like apricots or nectarines for different flavors. Adjust spices according to your taste as well.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking for even results.

What side dishes pair well with Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon?

Consider serving it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors of the dish.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is cooked perfectly when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon combines sweet and savory flavors that make it an appealing choice for dinner. It’s versatile enough for weeknight meals or special occasions. Feel free to customize the fruits and spices based on your preferences!