This Easy Bourbon Peach Glazed Salmon is a sweet and tangy delight! The juicy peaches mixed with a splash of bourbon create a tasty glaze that turns ordinary salmon into a special meal.
You won’t believe how simple it is to make! Just mix, brush, and bake. I love serving this with rice or veggies for a colorful dinner. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing while cooking! 🍑🎣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best, but you can use frozen if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw it completely. I love using salmon fillets with the skin on because it helps hold the fish together while cooking!
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are ideal for their sweetness. If they’re out of season, canned peaches can work too, just drain them well. I sometimes use mango as a fun twist if I have it on hand!
Bourbon: Any bourbon works well, but feel free to substitute with a non-alcoholic option like apple juice or peach nectar if you prefer. It will give a different flavor, but it’ll still be tasty!
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor, but you could use coconut sugar for a healthier option. Just remember to adjust to taste as it can be less sweet than regular brown sugar.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting that salmon just right is key! Start by patting it dry, this helps with browning. When cooking, keep the heat at medium-high at first for a nice sear, then lower it after flipping to avoid dryness.
- Cook skin-side down first. This helps protect the flesh and keeps it moist.
- Check for doneness by gently pressing with a fork; it should flake easily.
- If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Easy Bourbon Peach Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
- 1/3 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fabulous dish will take around 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Once dry, season both sides of the fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This adds flavor and enhances the taste of your salmon.
2. Make the Bourbon Glaze:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic. Keep whisking until the brown sugar dissolves completely. This glaze is what will make your salmon shine with delicious flavor!
3. Sear the Salmon:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the salmon fillets to the skillet skin-side down (if they have skin). Cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes or until the salmon is nicely browned. This step helps create a crispy texture.
4. Add Peaches:
Carefully flip the salmon fillets to the other side. Now, add the peach slices around the salmon in the skillet. Their natural sweetness will add a wonderful contrast to the savory salmon.
5. Pour the Glaze:
Pour the bourbon-peach glaze over the salmon and peaches. Let everything cook for another 4-5 minutes, occasionally spooning the glaze over the salmon to keep it moist. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon is cooked through and the glaze thickens slightly, creating a scrumptious coating!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat. Before serving, sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the salmon immediately with the glazed peaches spooned over the top. Enjoy your delightful bourbon peach glazed salmon!
This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic addition to your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to completely thaw it before cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is to transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you prefer to skip the bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice or peach nectar for a non-alcoholic option. It will yield a different flavor but will still be delicious! Just adjust the sugar slightly, as these substitutes can be sweeter.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the salmon.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to serve this salmon fresh, you can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the instructions, adding fresh salmon and peaches to enjoy a quick and delicious meal!
