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Easy Cedar Plank Salmon on the Grill

Easy Cedar Plank Salmon on the Grill

Easy Cedar Plank Salmon on the Grill is a simple, flavorful recipe that results in tender, juicy salmon infused with a subtle smoky aroma from the cedar plank. Perfect for summer cookouts, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, delivering a healthy, elegant dish with omega-3 rich salmon and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon and Plank

  • 4 fresh skin-on salmon fillets (about 1 to 1.5 inches thick)
  • 1 cedar plank, soaked for at least 1 hour

Seasonings and Garnishes

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Soak the Cedar Plank: Begin by soaking your cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour to prevent it from catching fire while grilling. Optionally, soak in apple juice or white wine for added subtle flavor.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil, then season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder or minced garlic. Lay lemon slices and fresh herbs on top to infuse flavor as it cooks.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat, approximately 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the salmon from sticking.
  4. Grill the Salmon on the Plank: Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill, then place the salmon fillets on top of the plank. Close the grill lid and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Check and Serve: Using a spatula, carefully transfer the salmon on the cedar plank to a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or lemon wedges as desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect smoky salmon experience.

Notes

  • Soak thoroughly: Always soak the cedar plank for at least one hour to avoid flames and enhance smoke flavor.
  • Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks quickly; monitor after 12 minutes to achieve a moist, tender texture.
  • Keep the skin on: The skin helps keep the fish intact and moist during cooking.
  • Use indirect heat: Position grill burners or coals away from the plank to prevent burning.
  • Rest before serving: Let the salmon rest a few minutes off the grill for juices to redistribute.

Nutrition

Keywords: cedar plank salmon, grilled salmon, summer cookout recipes, healthy salmon recipe, smoky salmon