This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is a nice mix of sweet and savory. The juicy peaches pair perfectly with the rich salmon, making it a delightful meal!
Honestly, the aroma while baking is just incredible. I could just sit by the oven and breathe in those flavors! 😄 I enjoy serving this with rice to soak up all the yummy juices!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh, skin-on salmon fillets are best for this recipe. If you prefer another fish, try trout or Arctic char. Just adjust cooking time since they may cook faster.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness, but you can also use nectarines or even canned peaches if fresh are out of season. Just drain any extra syrup.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds depth. If you’re avoiding sugar, coconut sugar or maple syrup can work as sweet substitutes. For a less sweet option, try using a little honey.
Bourbon: Bourbon adds a rich flavor. If you want to skip alcohol, replace it with apple juice or a dash of vanilla extract for a similar sweetness.
Smoked Paprika: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a little cayenne can add flavor. However, it won’t give the smokiness that pairs so nicely with salmon!
How Do I Cook Salmon Perfectly?
Getting your salmon cooked just right is key to this dish! Salmon should be moist and flaky, and not dry. Here’s how to cook it perfectly:
- Preheat your oven fully. This helps achieve a nice sear on the salmon.
- Keep an eye on your cooking time. For 6-8 oz fillets, 12-15 minutes is ideal, but check at 10 minutes.
- Watch for signs of doneness: salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork.
Remember to let it rest for a minute before serving—this allows the juices to redistribute and locks in flavor! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6-8 oz each)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Peaches and Marinade:
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon will take about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering meal in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the salmon cooks evenly and perfectly.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix the bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is combined to create a tasty marinade.
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillets dry. This helps them brown nicely. Place the fillets skin-side down in a cast iron skillet or another oven-safe pan.
4. Add the Peaches and Onions:
Arrange the sliced peaches and onions around the salmon in the skillet. They will roast beautifully alongside the fish!
5. Pour the Marinade:
Drizzle the bourbon sauce you made over the salmon, peaches, and onions, making sure they are all well coated with the sauce.
6. Roast the Salmon:
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and let it roast for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and check if the salmon is cooked through—it should flake easily with a fork.
7. Garnish and Serve:
After removing the skillet from the oven, garnish your salmon with fresh thyme sprigs. Serve warm, drenching the salmon and peaches with the delicious pan juices!
Enjoy your flavorful and slightly sweet bourbon peach roasted salmon! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely in the fridge overnight or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute the Peaches with Other Fruits?
Absolutely! While peaches are ideal for their sweetness, you can substitute with nectarines, plums, or even mango. Canned fruit can also work—just drain it well to remove excess syrup.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and peaches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use the oven or a microwave—just be careful not to overcook the salmon again!
What Can I Serve with This Salmon Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes.