This Easy Bourbon Peach Glazed Salmon is a tasty mix of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy peaches and rich bourbon make a delightful glaze that pairs perfectly with salmon.
What I love most is how quickly it comes together—perfect for a busy weeknight! Just grill the salmon, brush on the glaze, and let the magic happen. You’ll be craving this one often!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for a nice texture and flavor. If you can’t find salmon, trout or even chicken breast can be a good substitute, though cooking times will vary.
Peaches: Fresh peaches add a lovely sweetness, but frozen peaches work just as well when fresh ones aren’t in season. You could also swap in nectarines if you prefer or can’t find peaches.
Bourbon: Bourbon adds a rich depth to the glaze. If you’d like to avoid alcohol, use apple cider vinegar or a splash of peach juice. They won’t have the exact flavor but will add sweetness.
Honey: Honey is for sweetness. You can substitute it with maple syrup or agave if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a tangy twist to the glaze. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard or even a bit of apple cider vinegar can work instead.
How Do I Get My Salmon Skin Crispy?
To achieve perfectly crispy salmon skin, start with a hot skillet. Here’s how:
- Heat the skillet and let the oil get nice and hot before adding the salmon, skin-side down.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; two to three fillets at a time is ideal.
- Cook the skin without moving it for the first 4-5 minutes to help it crisp up.
- Flip gently to avoid tearing the skin. It’s okay if it sticks a little at first; it’ll release when ready.
These steps will leave you with perfectly crispy, golden-brown salmon skin that adds texture and flavor to your dish! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Bourbon Peach Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peaches, diced
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Begin by seasoning the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning enhances the flavor of the fish.
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon in the skillet skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crisp and the salmon is halfway cooked through. Flip the fillets over and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the pan and set it aside.
3. Cook the Peaches:
In the same skillet, add the diced peaches and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften. The heat will bring out their natural sweetness.
4. Make the Glaze:
Next, add bourbon, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The mixture will soon begin to bubble.
5. Simmer the Mixture:
Let the mixture simmer over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken and letting the peaches break down slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
6. Add Lemon Juice:
Stir in the fresh lemon juice to add a burst of flavor. This will balance the sweetness of the glaze.
7. Glaze the Salmon:
Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon the luscious peach bourbon glaze over the top of each fillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your salmon on plates drizzled with the peach bourbon glaze. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious Easy Bourbon Peach Glazed Salmon!
This dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and lovely presentation. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quick thawing before cooking. Pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Substitute the Bourbon in the Glaze?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, try using apple cider vinegar or peach juice for sweetness. While the flavor will differ, it will still deliver a tasty glaze for your salmon.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, and add a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the salmon moist.
What Can I Serve with Bourbon Peach Glazed Salmon?
This salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Serve it over rice or quinoa to soak up the glaze, or alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option.