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Cedar Planked Salmon

Cedar Planked Salmon
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Cedar Planked Salmon is a simple yet elegant grilled dish that infuses fresh salmon with a rich smoky flavor using soaked cedar wood planks. This method locks in moisture for tender, flaky fish with a golden finish, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets, skin-on (wild or farmed, about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cedar plank, soaked in water for at least 1 hour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or thyme), about 2 tablespoons chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Glaze

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (Dijon or whole grain)

Optional Variations

  • Dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (for spicy twist)
  • Soy sauce and ginger glaze (for Asian-inspired flavor)
  • Alternate fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or rosemary

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cedar Plank: Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning and to promote steaming during cooking, which imparts a signature smoky flavor safely.
  2. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet lightly on all sides with olive oil. Generously season with salt and black pepper. Place fresh herbs and lemon slices either on top of or beneath each fillet for added aroma and flavor. Optionally, brush with a maple syrup or honey-mustard glaze for a sweet-savory finish.
  3. Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F to 375°F. Ensure the grill grates are clean and set up for indirect cooking to avoid flare-ups and allow gentle cooking.
  4. Grill the Salmon on the Plank: Place the soaked cedar plank directly on the grill grates and allow it to warm until it begins to lightly smoke, usually 3 to 5 minutes. Position the salmon fillets skin side down on the plank, then close the grill lid to retain heat and smoke.
  5. Monitor and Finish Cooking: Cook the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes without flipping. The fish is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The plank’s natural oils infuse the salmon while preventing it from sticking and drying out.

Notes

  • Soak the cedar plank thoroughly to avoid burning and to maximize smoke flavor infusion.
  • Maintain a medium heat to prevent charring the plank and overcooking the salmon.
  • Use fresh, thick salmon fillets to hold moisture and cook evenly on the plank.
  • Preheat the cedar plank on the grill before placing the salmon to start releasing smoky aroma early.
  • Keep seasonings simple to showcase the natural flavor of the salmon and cedar smoke.
  • Let the cooked salmon rest briefly on the plank off the grill to allow juices to settle.

Nutrition

Keywords: cedar planked salmon, grilled salmon, smoky salmon recipe, healthy salmon, easy salmon recipe, omega-3 fish, cedar plank grilling

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/cedar-planked-salmon/