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Flavorful Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Grilled Salmon

brown sugar bourbon glazed grilled salmon - featured image

A quick and easy summer recipe featuring salmon fillets grilled to perfection with a sweet, smoky brown sugar bourbon glaze that caramelizes beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets, about 6 ounces (170g) each
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Prepare the glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, bourbon, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  4. Place the salmon skin-side down on the hot grill. Close the lid and cook without moving for about 6-7 minutes until the fish’s color changes.
  5. Carefully flip each fillet using a spatula. Brush the top with a generous amount of bourbon glaze, then cook for another 3-4 minutes, brushing once more halfway through. Watch the glaze caramelize but avoid burning.
  6. Check for doneness: salmon should flake easily with a fork but remain moist inside. An internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) is ideal.
  7. Remove salmon from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Brush the glaze halfway through grilling to avoid burning. If flare-ups occur, move salmon to a cooler part of the grill. Pat salmon dry before grilling for a crisp exterior. Use tamari for gluten-free option and avocado oil for higher smoke point. Glaze can be made a day ahead and stored refrigerated.

Nutrition

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