This bourbon peach glazed salmon is a sweet and tangy dish that’s sure to impress! The juicy peaches and rich bourbon create a lovely glaze that makes the salmon shine.
Cooking this salmon is a breeze! Just grill or bake it, brush on the glaze, and watch everyone’s faces light up. I love serving it with rice for a complete meal—delicious and easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here! If you’re in a pinch, tilapia or trout can also work well, though they will have a different taste.
Peaches: Fresh peaches give the best flavor, but if they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches in juice (not syrup) instead. Just adjust the sugar in the glaze since canned peaches are sweeter.
Bourbon: The bourbon adds depth to the glaze. If you’re not comfortable using alcohol, try apple juice or peach nectar as a substitute for a non-alcoholic twist.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works, but if you’re out, use regular sugar or honey. The glaze may be slightly less rich, but it’ll still taste great.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have Dijon, honey mustard or yellow mustard can be used, though it might alter the flavor slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Salmon for This Recipe?
Cooking salmon can be straightforward if you follow these steps to get it just right:
- Dry and Season: Make sure the salmon is dried before cooking to get a good sear. Season it right before placing it in the pan.
- Don’t Rush It: Cook the salmon without moving it for 4-5 minutes to get a nice crust. It’ll naturally release from the pan when ready!
- Flip Gently: If the skin is on, ensure you flip carefully using a spatula to avoid breaking the fillet. Cook on the other side for another 4-5 minutes until it flakes easily.
- Check for Doneness: Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. You can check it by piercing with a fork — it should flake easily.
By following these tips, your salmon will turn out perfectly cooked and full of flavor!
Easy Bourbon Peach Glazed Salmon
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh peaches, sliced (about 1 large peach)
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. In total, you should plan for around 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve a delicious salmon dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
First, pat your salmon fillets dry using a paper towel. This helps them sear better! Once dry, season both sides with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). This will create a zesty glaze that adds a delightful flavor to your salmon!
3. Cook the Peaches:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced peaches. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and slightly softened. After they’re done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Salmon:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side down if they have skin. Cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them. This allows that beautiful sear to form. After 4-5 minutes, carefully flip the fillets over.
5. Add Glaze and Peaches:
Pour your bourbon peach glaze over the salmon in the skillet. Allow that yummy glaze to mix with the salmon. Add the cooked peach slices around the salmon in the skillet.
6. Simmer and Glaze:
Continue to cook the salmon for another 4-5 minutes, occasionally spooning the glaze over the fillets. The glaze should thicken slightly and become a lovely, sticky coating on the salmon.
7. Serve:
Once cooked through and beautifully glazed, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Serve the salmon hot with those caramelized peach slices and an extra drizzle of glaze.
Enjoy this scrumptious sweet, tangy, and slightly boozy glaze on your salmon! Pair it with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Happy cooking!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to fully thaw it first! The best way to thaw is in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry before cooking to help it sear nicely.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice, peach nectar, or even a splash of chicken or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option. The flavor will differ a bit, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra glaze if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the glaze and cook the peaches ahead of time! Just store these components separately and then cook the salmon and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.
