Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both impressive and easy to make? Do you love the rich, warm notes of bourbon? Then you're in for a treat! This recipe for Bourbon Glazed Salmon is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's a delicious dish that's surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your salmon game with this fantastic recipe featuring homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce has slightly thickened. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better and get that lovely crispy skin (if using skin-on fillets).
Sear and bake: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the fillets and cook for another minute before transferring the skillet to the preheated oven.
Glaze and finish: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. During the last 2-3 minutes of baking, spoon the bourbon glaze evenly over the salmon fillets.
Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy! This healthy meal is perfect served with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the salmon fillets enough space in the skillet to sear properly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Adjust the glaze: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spiciness of the glaze to your liking. A little extra brown sugar will make it sweeter, while a pinch of cayenne pepper will add a kick.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Variations:
- Maple Bourbon Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for the brown sugar for a sweeter and slightly more nuanced flavor.
- Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30-35g Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This easy recipe offers a healthy and delicious meal option perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more sophisticated meal. The rich flavor of the bourbon glaze perfectly complements the flaky salmon, making it a truly satisfying dish. Enjoy!