Print

Flavorful Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe Easy Grilled Salmon on a Cedar Plank

cedar plank salmon recipe - featured image

This cedar plank salmon recipe offers a smoky, tender, and flavorful grilled salmon experience with simple ingredients and minimal fuss. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets, about 6 ounces (170g) each, preferably wild-caught
  • 1 untreated cedar plank, 12×7 inches, soaked in water for at least 1 hour
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 medium lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • Salt, to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Thin lemon slices for garnish
  • Optional: Pinch of smoked paprika for depth

Instructions

  1. Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours if possible) to prevent burning.
  2. Preheat the grill to medium heat, about 350°F (175°C). For charcoal grills, arrange coals for indirect heat.
  3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
  5. Brush the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the salmon fillets.
  6. Remove the cedar plank from water and pat dry. Lightly brush the plank with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  7. Place the cedar plank directly on the grill grates.
  8. After about 3 minutes, place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the plank.
  9. Close the grill lid and cook for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C).
  10. Check for doneness: salmon should flake easily but remain moist, and edges may curl slightly.
  11. Carefully remove the plank from the grill using tongs and heatproof gloves.
  12. Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.
  13. Garnish with fresh lemon slices or extra dill if desired.

Notes

Soak the cedar plank well to prevent flare-ups and ensure gentle cooking. Use indirect heat on the grill for best results. Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain temperature and infuse smoky flavor. Avoid overcooking salmon to keep it moist and tender. If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the salmon on the cedar plank at 400°F (205°C) for 15-20 minutes. Variations include adding crushed red pepper flakes for spice or brushing a honey-mustard glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cedar plank salmon, grilled salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, outdoor grilling, seafood, quick dinner