This Easy Sweet and Spicy Peach Glazed Salmon is a tasty treat! The sweet peach glaze mixed with a hint of spice makes the salmon juicy and full of flavor.
You won’t believe how simple it is to make! Just brush on the glaze, bake, and enjoy a delicious meal. I love pairing this with rice for lunch or dinner. Yum! 🍑🐟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this dish, offering a rich flavor and buttery texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could use trout, tilapia, or even chicken breasts if you’re not a fan of fish.
Peach Preserves: Peach preserves add sweetness and stickiness. If you can’t find them, feel free to use apricot jam or even mango chutney for a different twist. Just make sure it’s a fruit spread for the right consistency.
Sriracha: This adds a lovely kick to the glaze. If you’re looking for less heat, try hoisin sauce for sweetness or a milder hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot. You can also adjust the amount to suit your spice level!
Vinegar: Rice vinegar gives a nice tang, but apple cider vinegar works as a good substitute. It has a slightly stronger flavor, so use a little less if you’re sensitive to acidity.
Green Onions: They add a fresh, crunchy finish. If you don’t have them, red or white onions can work, but use less since they have a stronger taste. Chopped parsley is another alternative for a pop of color.
How Do You Get the Salmon Just Right?
Baking salmon can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! The key is to ensure it’s cooked evenly for that perfect flaky texture. Here are some tips:
- Cook at a high temperature (400°F). This makes for a nice glaze while keeping the fish moist.
- Check for doneness after 12 minutes. Salmon is typically done when it flakes easily with a fork and looks slightly opaque.
- If you prefer crispy edges, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes. Just keep an eye on it!
As a personal tip, I love to let the salmon rest a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps it moist when you serve it.
How to Make Easy Sweet and Spicy Peach Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup peach preserves or peach jam
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or other hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and effortless meal perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get it nice and hot for baking the salmon. You can also lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the peach preserves, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until everything is well combined and smooth. This sweet and spicy mixture will be the star of the dish!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Take the salmon fillets and pat them dry with some paper towels. Place them skin-side down in your prepared baking dish. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the fillets and sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Glaze the Salmon:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat the top of each salmon fillet with the peach glaze, making sure to reserve some glaze for serving if you’d like.
5. Bake the Salmon:
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork, and the glaze is bubbling and slightly caramelized on top.
6. Final Touches:
Once the salmon is baked to perfection, take it out of the oven and drizzle any extra glaze from the pan over the top of the salmon for added flavor.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the salmon for a fresh touch. Serve the salmon immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of citrusy flavor!
This vibrant salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a fresh green salad for a delicious weeknight dinner. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Substitute Other Proteins for Salmon?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can substitute with trout, tilapia, or even boneless chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—chicken may take longer to cook through compared to salmon.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the Glaze?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha or swap it out for a milder hot sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat without drastically changing the flavor. Taste your glaze before applying it to the fish, and feel free to adjust as needed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the fish.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes, the peach glaze can be made in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good stir before using, and you might want to warm it slightly to bring it back to a more fluid consistency.