Prepare to elevate your dinner game with a mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich, smoky flavors of bourbon with the delicate, buttery texture of salmon. This Bourbon Pecan Crusted Salmon is not just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary fish dish into an extraordinary gourmet masterpiece. With a crispy, nutty crust and a hint of bourbon's warmth, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature for even cooking of the salmon.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a separate small bowl, pour in the bourbon. This will be used to moisten the pecan mixture and add flavor to the crust.
- Take each salmon fillet and season both sides with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavor of the fish.
- Dip the top side of each salmon fillet into the bourbon, allowing it to soak for just a few seconds to absorb some of the flavor.
- After soaking, press the bourbon-soaked side of each salmon fillet into the pecan mixture, ensuring that the top is well-coated with the mixture.
- Place the coated salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, crust side up. Make sure to leave some space between each fillet for even cooking.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The crust should be golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the fish.
- Serve the Bourbon Pecan Crusted Salmon warm, garnished with lemon wedges or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Choose high-quality salmon: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Toast the pecans: Lightly toasting the pecans before chopping can enhance their nutty flavor and add extra depth to the crust.
- Don't over-soak in bourbon: A quick dip is enough to add flavor without making the crust soggy.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let it rest: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its moisture and makes it more tender.
- Experiment with bourbon: Try different bourbon varieties to find your favorite flavor profile.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the pecan crust mixture in advance to save time during cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
