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Perfect Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Easy Lemon Dill Butter

cedar plank salmon - featured image

A simple and delicious cedar plank salmon recipe infused with smoky wood aroma and topped with a bright, creamy lemon dill butter. Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for both grill and oven cooking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets, skin-on, 6-8 ounces each (170225 grams), wild-caught if possible
  • 1 untreated cedar plank, soaked in water for at least 1 hour
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 60 grams), softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • Salt to taste, preferably flaky sea salt
  • Black pepper to taste, freshly cracked
  • Olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

  1. Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour (up to 3 hours) to prevent burning and infuse smoky aroma.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, chopped fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Mix well and season with salt and pepper. Set aside or refrigerate if not using immediately.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high (375-400°F / 190-205°C) or preheat oven broiler or oven to 400°F (205°C).
  4. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
  5. Remove cedar plank from water and pat dry. Lightly oil the surface of the plank to prevent sticking. Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the plank.
  6. Spread a generous dollop of lemon dill butter on top of each fillet.
  7. Place the cedar plank directly on the grill grates or in the oven. Close grill lid or oven door and cook for 12-15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily and reaches internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C).
  8. Carefully remove the plank from heat and let salmon rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Soak cedar plank thoroughly to avoid burning. Use skin-on salmon fillets for better texture. Avoid flipping the salmon during cooking to keep fillets intact. Let salmon rest after cooking for best flavor. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with vegan spread or olive oil-based butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: cedar plank salmon, lemon dill butter, grilled salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy dinner, seafood, quick salmon