Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is a flavorful dish featuring salmon filets marinated, seared, and baked in a luscious bourbon peach marinade alongside fresh, thinly sliced peaches. As the salmon cooks, the marinade caramelizes into a rich glaze, while the peaches soften and release their natural sweetness, adding juicy bursts of flavor to every bite. If you prefer poultry, be sure to try the equally delicious Roasted Peach Chicken recipe!
Ingredients & Benefits
Salmon: Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with Omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and support heart health. It’s also an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients. For this recipe, use 4 salmon filets, about 2 inches thick, cooked skin-on for best results. You can remove the skin when serving if you like.
Peach Preserves: These add a concentrated fruity sweetness to the marinade. If unavailable, peach jam or jelly can be a good substitute.
Bourbon: Adds warmth and complexity to the marinade. Feel free to use your favorite bourbon or replace it with an additional ¼ cup peach preserves if you prefer to skip the alcohol.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides a tangy balance that complements the sweetness of the peaches and preserves.
Mustard: Dijon coarse ground mustard adds a sharp, tangy depth, though yellow mustard can be used as a substitute if needed.
Red Pepper Flakes: Give a subtle spicy kick, but can be omitted or adjusted to taste.
Fresh Peaches: Thinly sliced ripe peaches add freshness and natural juice to the dish.
How to Make Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together peach preserves, bourbon, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This makes about 1½ cups of marinade. Set aside half (¾ cup) for later.
- Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon filets in a resealable plastic bag. Pour in the remaining marinade, seal, and gently toss to coat. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sear the Salmon: Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side up and cook 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Add Peaches and Flip: Flip the salmon to skin-side down, add the sliced peaches around the salmon, and cook for another 2–3 minutes until peaches soften slightly and salmon skin crisps.
- Add Reserved Marinade: Pour the reserved marinade evenly over the salmon and peaches.
- Roast: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. Check at 12 minutes; salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately for a delightful, juicy meal.
Tips & Variations
- Skipping Searing: You can skip searing and bake the salmon directly, but searing adds a beautiful caramelized crust and enhances flavor.
- Using a Baking Dish: If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the salmon and soften the peaches in a pan, then transfer everything to a baking dish to finish cooking.
- Storage: Cool leftovers to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is an easy yet elegant dish that combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with juicy, tender salmon. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, it’s a recipe sure to impress and satisfy!