Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon

Name: Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon
Prep time: 70 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 piece cedar plank (soaked in water for at least 1 hour); 4 fillets salmon (skin-on); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 2 tbsp dill (chopped, fresh)

90 min 4 servings medium

All Recipes

Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon

Discover the smoky, rich flavor of cedar plank salmon, a BBQ delicacy with a touch of elegance.

Prep

70 min

Cook

20 min

Total

90 min

Servings

Difficulty

medium

Cedar plank salmon is a quintessential BBQ dish that brings together the rich flavors of the sea with the earthy aroma of cedar wood. This method of grilling not only imparts a unique smoky flavor to the fish but also keeps it moist and succulent. Originally a Native American technique, cooking salmon on a cedar plank is now a popular choice among grilling enthusiasts. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; the fish absorbs the distinct essence of the cedar, while maintaining its natural taste and texture. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a quiet evening at home, cedar plank salmon offers a delightful culinary experience that's sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Servings

Cedar Plank Salmon

Instructions

Prepare the Cedar Plank

Submerge the cedar plank in water and soak for at least 1 hour. This will prevent it from catching fire on the grill.

Pro tip: For added flavor, try soaking the plank in apple cider or white wine.

Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and fresh dill.

Pro tip: Let the salmon sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before grilling.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 375°F (190°C).

Pro tip: Ensure the grill grates are clean to prevent sticking.

Grill the Salmon

Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill and close the lid. Heat the plank for about 5 minutes until it starts to smoke. Place the salmon fillets on the plank, skin-side down, and close the grill lid. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Pro tip: Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain a consistent temperature.

Finish and Serve

Carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill. Drizzle the salmon with fresh lemon juice before serving.

Pro tip: Use a wide spatula to transfer the salmon from the plank to the serving plate.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure you soak the cedar plank for at least an hour to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cedar plank salmon with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the smoky flavor of the fish. A squeeze of lemon over the top just before serving adds a refreshing citrus note that enhances the dish. For a complete meal, pair this delicacy with a chilled glass of white wine or a light, crisp beer. Enjoy your cedar plank salmon hot off the grill for the best taste experience.