Name: Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup peach preserves; ¼ cup bourbon; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar; 2 teaspoons Dijon coarse ground mustard; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 4 filets salmon (about 1½ pounds, skins on); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 medium peaches (pitted, thinly sliced); parsley (for garnish)

Introduction to Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Creating delicious, homemade meals like bourbon peach roasted salmon isn't just a tasty choice; it’s also a healthier one! While fast food may be convenient, it often lacks the nutrients our bodies crave. Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients, so you can avoid excess sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives found in many takeout dishes. Plus, there's nothing quite as rewarding as sharing a beautifully prepared meal with friends and family.

But let’s be honest: with our busy lifestyles, finding time to cook can feel like a challenge. However, with this easy bourbon peach roasted salmon recipe, we aim to simplify your cooking experience. Incorporating fresh ingredients like peaches packed with vitamins and omega-3-rich salmon creates a dish that’s not only scrumptious but also supports your health!

Did you know that salmon is recognized for its heart health benefits? A study published by the American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of incorporating fatty fish into your diet. By making meals from scratch, you cultivate a wholesome lifestyle that fast food just can’t compare to. So why not make this delightful recipe your next culinary adventure? You’ll savor every bite and relish the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal!

Ingredients for Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

When you're preparing to make bourbon peach roasted salmon, gathering the right ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Let’s break it down step by step!

Essential Ingredients for the Marinade

The marinade is what truly elevates this dish, infusing the salmon with sweet and savory notes. Here’s what you’ll need:

¾ cup peach preserves: Adds a sweet, fruity base.
¼ cup of bourbon alternative: Look for a non-alcoholic bourbon flavoring if preferred.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Promotes moisture and adds richness.
2 teaspoons soy sauce: Adds a touch of umami.
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar: For some acidity that balances the sweetness.
2 teaspoons Dijon coarse ground mustard: Provides flexibility to the flavor.
2 teaspoons garlic, minced: Enhances the overall taste.
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds some heat.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: A subtle kick for extra flavor.

Key Ingredients for the Salmon

Now, onto the star of the show—the salmon! Here’s what you need to make it shine:

4 salmon filets (about 1½ pounds): Make sure they have the skin on for that extra crunch.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: For that beautiful sear.
2 medium peaches: Slice them thin to complement the fish perfectly.
Parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Discover more about why these ingredients work so well together and how they can transform your weeknight dinner into something extraordinary! Overall, each element contributes to the deliciousness of your bourbon peach roasted salmon, making it a dish that will impress.

Preparing Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon recipe combines the sweetness of peaches with the depth of bourbon-infused flavors, creating a delightful dish that is perfect for a special dinner or a casual weekend meal. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure your salmon turns out beautifully!

Create a Flavorful Marinade

To start, let’s whip up a zesty and sweet marinade that will elevate our salmon to another level. In a medium bowl, combine ¾ cup of peach preserves, ¼ cup of bourbon, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 2 teaspoons of soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 teaspoons of Dijon coarse ground mustard, 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, 1 ½ teaspoons of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This aromatic mixture gives your salmon an irresistible flavor. Remember to set aside half of the marinade (about ¾ cup), as we’ll use it later!

If you’re interested in the nutritional benefits of peaches, check out this article to discover why they are so good for you!

Let It Soak: Marinate the Salmon

Next, place your four salmon fillets into a resealable plastic bag and pour in the remaining marinade. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring the salmon is well coated. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to seep into the fish. If you have the time, letting it marinate for an hour will impart even more flavor!

Setting the Stage: Preheat the Oven

While your salmon is soaking up all those tasty flavors, it’s time to prepare your cooking environment. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly, allowing those peach flavors to meld beautifully with the fish.

Sear That Salmon

Once the oven is preheated, grab a medium, oven-safe skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the marinated salmon fillets, skin side up. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust. It’s that caramelization that really builds great flavor!

Bake and Finish Your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Next, flip those fillets so the skin side is down and add in the thinly sliced peaches around the salmon. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes; the peaches will soften just a bit, contributing a sweet tartness to the dish. Now, remove the skillet from heat and pour your reserved marinade over the salmon and peaches.

Transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Make sure to check for doneness around the 12-minute mark; the internal temperature should reach 145°F for perfectly cooked salmon.

Once finished, serve your Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. You’re in for a treat! Enjoy your delightful creation!

Variations on Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

When you're ready to get creative with your bourbon peach roasted salmon, consider adding your personal touch.

Add Spicy Elements

If you're a fan of heat, why not amp up the flavor profile? Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the marinade. This will not only enhance the sweetness of the peaches but also give your dish an exciting kick.

Incorporate Different Fruits

Don't feel limited to peaches! Substituting with fresh mango or plump cherries can lend unique flavors to your salmon. You might even explore using citrus fruits like oranges or limes for a refreshing twist. Each variation brings a new layer of complexity—experiment and discover your favorite!

For more inspiration on fruit pairings, check out this article on seasonal fruits.

Cooking notes for Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Tips for marinating effectively

To achieve a flavorful bourbon peach roasted salmon, allow your salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes, though an hour will deepen the taste even more. Make sure to coat the salmon thoroughly in the marinade—using a resealable plastic bag makes this easy. Don’t forget to reserve half the marinade for basting later; it keeps the dish moist and adds extra peachy goodness!

Importance of cooking temperature

Cooking salmon at the right temperature is crucial for the best texture and flavor. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F; this ensures your salmon is perfectly flaky without being dry. Consider investing in a reliable kitchen thermometer to take the guesswork out of cooking. If you’re curious about the science behind cooking fish, check out resources from The Seafood Nutrition Partnership, which is loaded with tips and nutritional information.

Serving suggestions for Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Pairing with sides

When savoring this bourbon peach roasted salmon, consider pairing it with colorful and refreshing sides. A light arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a lemon vinaigrette adds a zesty contrast. Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes or herbed quinoa can provide a hearty base. For a touch of sweetness, roasted asparagus sweetened with a hint of balsamic vinegar complements the fish beautifully. If you want to add a cultural flair, try a side of cilantro-lime rice to brighten the plate.

Ideal garnishes

To elevate your bourbon peach roasted salmon, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or even a sprinkle of chopped pecans for a delightful crunch. Adding sliced green onions or a few slices of fresh lemon can provide a bright visual pop, while fresh peach slices will echo the dish’s fabulous flavors. This little touch will not only make your meal Instagram-ready but also enhance the delightful peach essence of your dish.

For more inspiration, you can explore sides at EatingWell or Food Network. The world of culinary creativity starts right alongside your plate!

Time Breakdown for Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

Preparation time
Gathering your ingredients and setting up the marinades will take about 10 minutes. It’s a great way to dive into this delicious dish!

Marinating time
Let your salmon soak up those rich flavors for at least 30 minutes, but aim for an hour if you can. This is crucial for that mouthwatering taste!

Cooking time
The actual cooking will take around 20 minutes, including searing and roasting your salmon to perfection.

Total time
From start to finish, you’re looking at about an hour for prep and marinating plus cooking time, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

This bourbon peach roasted salmon is both quick and impressive, sure to delight friends and family alike. If you're curious about how flavors work together, consider checking out this guide on marinade basics for a deeper dive into the world of marinades!

Nutritional Facts for Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

When it comes to deliciousness and nutrition, bourbon peach roasted salmon offers a delightful balance. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts:

Calories

This dish contains approximately 350 calories per serving, making it a satisfying choice for a healthy dinner.

Protein

With about 30 grams of protein per serving, it’s a powerful option for those looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a flavorful meal.

Fat

Each serving has around 15 grams of fat, primarily from the salmon and olive oil, contributing to heart-healthy unsaturated fats.

Sodium

Coming in at approximately 600 mg of sodium, this dish is well within the recommended daily value, making it a wise choice for those mindful of salt intake.

For more nutritional insights, check out the USDA FoodData Central for detailed breakdowns on fish and other ingredients. Enjoy creating a meal that’s not just tasty but also nourishing!

FAQs about Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The best way to determine if your bourbon peach roasted salmon is done is by using a digital meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F, which ensures it's both safe to eat and has that deliciously flaky texture. If you don’t have a thermometer handy, look for opaque flesh that easily flakes apart with a fork.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen salmon fillets, but it's essential to thaw them completely before marinating. To do this safely, place the salmon in the refrigerator overnight, or you can speed up the process by submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Just remember that the cooking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on it.

What sides pair well with bourbon peach roasted salmon?

For a delightful meal, consider pairing your bourbon peach roasted salmon with:

Grilled asparagus or green beans: The grassy flavors complement the sweetness of the dish.
Quinoa or rice: A hearty grain to absorb those delicious juices.
A fresh spinach salad: Tossed with a vinaigrette to add some refreshing crunch.

These sides balance the sweetness while enhancing your dining experience! For more inspiration, check out this article on side dishes for salmon.

Conclusion on Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon

As you wrap up this delightful culinary journey with bourbon peach roasted salmon, take a moment to savor the flavor combinations you've created. This dish not only showcases the sweet and savory magic of peaches and salmon but also brings a taste of summer to your table any time of year. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or on a bed of quinoa for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!