This bourbon peach glazed salmon is a delicious mix of sweet and savory. The juicy peaches and warm bourbon create a tasty sauce that makes the salmon shine!
Cooking this dish feels like a summer party on your plate! I love enjoying it with a side of rice or fresh veggies. It’s so easy, you’ll feel like a chef in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Salmon is rich in healthy fats and flavor. I usually go for wild-caught for the best taste, but farmed works too. If you prefer, trout or even chicken could be interesting alternatives.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are luscious, but frozen are perfectly fine too! Just make sure they’re sliced before cooking. If peaches aren’t in season, you can substitute with nectarines or even apricots.
Bourbon: Bourbon provides a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re looking for an alcohol-free version, try apple juice or a mix of apple cider vinegar and water as a substitute.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is optional and adds sweetness. If you want a healthier option, coconut sugar or maple syrup would work well too!
How Do I Get My Salmon Crispy on the Outside?
Getting the salmon crispy is easier than you might think! Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon; a hot surface gives that nice sear.
- Cook the salmon skin-side down first (if applicable) for 4-5 minutes without moving it for that crispy skin.
- When flipping, use a spatula to carefully lift it from the side to maintain the crispiness.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly crispy salmon every time!
Easy Bourbon Peach Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peach slices
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping ingredients and around 15-20 minutes cooking the salmon and making the glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by seasoning your salmon fillets generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will help bring out their flavor!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to give the salmon a nice sear.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets in the skillet skin-side down (if using skin-on). Let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crisp and the salmon starts to cook through. Then, flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the salmon is cooked to your liking. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Prepare the Peach Glaze:
In the same skillet, add the peach slices and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release some juices. This is where the magic happens!
5. Make the Bourbon Sauce:
Add the bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine nicely.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until it reduces a bit and becomes glossy. Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking.
7. Coat the Salmon:
Carefully return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the bourbon peach glaze over each fillet to coat them well. Allow it to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your salmon with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch. Serve immediately with sides like rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your sweet and savory bourbon peach glazed salmon!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your salmon fillets in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear!
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you’d prefer not to use bourbon, you can swap it out for apple juice or a mixture of apple cider vinegar with a bit of water for a tangy alternative. This will still add flavor to the peach glaze without the alcohol.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, being careful not to overcook it, so it stays moist and tender.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze ahead! Cook the peach bourbon sauce and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the glaze, cook the salmon, and add it to the sauce for a quick and tasty meal!
