Too hot to spend hours in the kitchen this summer? This Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon is your new best friend.
It delivers a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. You get sweet, smoky, and savory flavors in every single bite. This dish is perfect for a warm evening on the patio.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total winner for busy families. It is packed with 38g of protein per serving to keep you full. The combination of fresh fruit and bourbon feels incredibly special.
It is elegant enough for a romantic date night. Yet, it is fast enough for a Tuesday after work. Your family will think you spent hours on the glaze!
Simple Method
Making this dish is very straightforward and stress-free. You simply simmer the peaches with bourbon until they turn into a thick, jammy glaze. Then, you let the oven do the rest of the work.
Even if you are new to cooking fish, you can do this. The glaze keeps the salmon tender and moist while it roasts. You really cannot mess this one up!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses fresh summer produce and a few simple pantry staples.
- 4 Atlantic salmon fillets (approximately 6.5 ounces each)
- 2 medium fresh peaches, pitted and finely diced
- 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Combine diced peaches, bourbon, and maple syrup in a small saucepan.
- Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the liquid reduces by half.
- Whisk in the Dijon mustard and smoked paprika into the thickened glaze.
- Pat the salmon dry and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon the bourbon peach glaze generously over each fillet.
- Roast for 12 to 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve your masterpiece immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this salmon over a bed of fluffy white rice. The rice will soak up all that delicious peach glaze. A side of grilled asparagus adds a lovely crunch.
For a lighter option, try a fresh arugula salad. The peppery greens balance the sweet peaches perfectly. Pour a glass of chilled white wine and enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to two days. This salmon is actually delicious served cold over a salad.
To reheat, use a low oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. This prevents the fish from becoming rubbery or dry. Avoid the microwave if you can to keep the texture perfect.
Tips for Best Results
- Use very ripe peaches for the most natural sweetness.
- Don’t skip patting the salmon dry for a better sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the fish.
- Swap bourbon for apple juice if you prefer no alcohol.
- Double the glaze to use on roasted carrots or chicken.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Garnish with extra thyme for a beautiful, fresh aroma.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Try nectarines instead of peaches for a similar sweet flavor.
- Use honey if you do not have maple syrup on hand.
- Swap the smoked paprika for cumin for an earthy twist.
- Add a splash of soy sauce for a salty umami boost.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen fillets for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge first. Pat them very dry before adding the oil and glaze.
Does the alcohol cook out?
Most of the alcohol evaporates while the glaze simmers on the stove. It leaves behind a rich, oaky flavor without the bite. It is generally considered safe for the whole family.
How do I know the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork when it is finished. The center should look opaque rather than translucent. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for the best results.
I hope this bright and fruity salmon brings a little sunshine to your dinner table. It is the perfect way to celebrate peach season with the ones you love. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
High Protein Bourbon Peach Roasted Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 Atlantic salmon fillets (approximately 6.5 ounces each)
- 2 medium fresh peaches, pitted and finely diced
- 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced peaches, bourbon whiskey, and maple syrup.
- Simmer the peach mixture for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the liquid reduces by half and peaches soften into a thick glaze.
- Remove the glaze from heat and whisk in the Dijon mustard and smoked paprika until well incorporated.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Generously spoon the bourbon peach glaze over the top surface of each fillet.
- Roast the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the glaze is slightly caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
