Taste the Flavors of Tennessee with This Bourbon-Marinated Salmon Recipe

Tennessee is a state known for its love of bold, smoky flavors, and nothing pairs better with that tradition than a bourbon-infused dish. Inspired by the flavors of LongHorn Steakhouse, this Bourbon-Marinated Salmon recipe brings together the richness of bourbon with the delicate flavors of fresh salmon. It’s a perfect combination that marries the sweetness of brown sugar and the tang of lime juice with the smooth, warm taste of bourbon.

Photo byNick Davies

Salmon is a fish that takes well to bold marinades, and in this recipe, the bourbon mixture not only adds a depth of flavor but also helps keep the fish moist as it cooks. Whether you grill it on a sunny Tennessee evening or broil it in your kitchen, the result is a caramelized, flaky fillet that’s packed with flavor. And with the fresh touch of ginger, garlic, and green onion, this dish offers a beautiful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory.

This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends when you want to serve something special without spending all day in the kitchen. Pair it with grilled vegetables or a light salad, and you’ve got a meal that captures the heart of Tennessee’s love for good food and great bourbon.

Recipe: Tennessee-Style Bourbon-Marinated Salmon Ingredients:

• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup bourbon
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 salmon fillets (7 to 8 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, bourbon, soy sauce, lime juice, ginger, garlic, and pepper. Mix well. Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade mixture for serving and set aside.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a large resealable food storage bag. Pour the remaining bourbon mixture over the salmon, seal the bag, and turn to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 hours, turning occasionally.
3. Preheat the grill or broiler. Remove the salmon from the marinade and discard the marinade.
4. Grill or broil the salmon for about 10 minutes, or until the fish begins to flake easily when tested with a fork. (To broil, place the salmon on a foil-lined baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.) Brush the salmon with the reserved marinade mixture during the last few minutes of cooking. Sprinkle with finely chopped green onion before serving.

With its sweet bourbon glaze and a touch of ginger and lime, this Bourbon-Marinated Salmon is the perfect combination of Tennessee flavors. The bourbon creates a slight caramelization on the outside of the fish, while the marinade keeps the inside tender and flaky. This dish is versatile enough to be served on a casual weeknight or at a dinner party, and it pairs wonderfully with a glass of Tennessee bourbon or sweet tea.

This salmon dish offers the best of what Tennessee cuisine is all about: big, bold flavors that leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, the rich, smoky sweetness of bourbon brings out the best in the salmon, creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is memorable.

Sources:

Family Recipe