Print

Flavorful Sticky Bourbon Glazed Salmon Recipe with Roasted Asparagus Tips

sticky bourbon glazed salmon - featured image

This recipe features salmon fillets glazed with a sticky bourbon sauce and roasted alongside tender asparagus, creating a quick, easy, and impressive meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces / 170 grams each), skin-on for crispiness
  • 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 pound / 450 grams), trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Trim the asparagus by snapping off the woody ends. Arrange them in a single layer on one side of the baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, sprinkle salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Prepare the bourbon glaze by whisking together 1/4 cup bourbon, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth and combined.
  4. Pat dry the salmon fillets with paper towels. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the other side of the baking sheet. Brush each fillet generously with the bourbon glaze, reserving some glaze for later.
  5. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The asparagus should be tender but still slightly crisp.
  6. Switch your oven to broil on high. Brush the salmon again with the reserved glaze and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning to create a sticky, caramelized layer.
  7. If desired, put the asparagus under the broiler for 1-2 minutes for a bit more color. Add a sprinkle of lemon zest for freshness.
  8. Serve immediately by plating the salmon fillets alongside the roasted asparagus. Spoon any pan juices over the top for extra flavor.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before glazing to help the glaze stick and caramelize better. Use room temperature salmon for even cooking. Watch the broiler carefully to avoid burning the glaze. If glaze thickens, add a splash of bourbon or water to loosen. For gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce. Variations include adding crushed red pepper flakes for spice or swapping brown sugar with maple syrup or honey.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon recipe, bourbon glazed salmon, roasted asparagus, sticky glaze, quick dinner, easy salmon, healthy dinner, weeknight meal