A hint of smokiness wafts through the air as you prepare to dive into a plate of grilled cedar plank salmon. The thought of flaky fish infused with aromatic spices and herbs is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. This dish bursts with flavors that will dance on your palate, making it an unforgettable addition to any summer gathering.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of salmon is best for grilling?
- How long do I soak cedar planks?
- Can I use other woods besides cedar?
- 📖 Recipe Card
it’s Memorial Day weekend, and you’re surrounded by family and friends. Laughter fills the air as you flip burgers and toss salads while dreaming about that glorious piece of salmon soaking up the smoky goodness from a cedar plank. Trust me; this is a meal that will keep you coming back for more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The grilled cedar plank salmon is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a hit with both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Its rich flavor profile pairs perfectly with fresh herbs and spices.
- Visually stunning when plated, it adds a touch of elegance to any BBQ spread.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to accompany various sides or salads for a complete meal.
My cousin once attempted this recipe at a family BBQ and accidentally set off the smoke alarm—let’s just say his attempt at “smoky” went a tad too far! The laughter still echoes in my ears every time I fire up my grill.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillet: Fresh, skin-on fillets provide the best flavor; ensure they are bright in color and smell ocean-fresh.
- Cedar Plank: Soak the plank in water for at least an hour before grilling; this prevents burning and enhances flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste; it helps keep the fish moist during cooking.
For the Marinade:
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; avoid bottled versions for superior flavor.
- Dijon Mustard: This adds tanginess and helps other flavors stick to the fish beautifully.
- Fresh Herbs (Dill or Parsley): Choose vibrant green herbs for freshness; they elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
- Garlic Cloves: Mince fresh garlic for maximum flavor impact; it brings depth to your marinade.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Soak Your Cedar Plank: Begin by soaking your cedar plank in water for at least one hour; this prevents charring while infusing your salmon with delightful woodsy flavors.
Prepare Your Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper; let those zesty aromas swirl around you—it’s going to be good!
Marinate Your Salmon: Place your salmon fillet in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over it and let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to soak up all those fabulous flavors.
Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high (around 375°F). If using charcoal, wait until coals are covered with ash; if using gas, let it heat up fully before placing your plank on.
Add Salmon to Plank: Remove the soaked cedar plank from water and place it on one side of your grill. Lay the marinated salmon skin-side down on top of the plank.
Grill Until Perfectly Flaky: Close the lid and grill for about 15-20 minutes; look out for that enticing aroma of smoky goodness! The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when ready.
And there you have it! A piece of grilled cedar plank salmon that tastes like sunshine on a plate—perfectly flaky on the inside with a hint of smokiness that’ll make everyone ask for seconds!
Now go ahead—fire up that grill! Your friends will think you’ve got culinary magic hidden away somewhere (and who needs to tell them otherwise?). Enjoy every bite of this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!
You Must Know
- The secret to delicious Memorial Day Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon is in the cedar planks’ infusion of smoky flavor.
- Soak them beforehand for a tender, juicy finish.
- This dish not only impresses guests but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by soaking cedar planks in water for at least an hour. Preheat your grill, then place the salmon on the planks and grill until it flakes easily, usually around 15-20 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the seasonings! Try dill instead of thyme or toss in some lemon zest for extra zing. You can even add vegetables like asparagus alongside the salmon.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at a low temperature to prevent drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly grilled salmon, use skin-on fillets to help retain moisture and flavor.
- Always check for doneness with a fork; it should flake easily when ready.
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after grilling to enhance its juiciness.
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of grilling with friends during summer barbecues, where laughter and delicious food created unforgettable moments together.
FAQ
What type of salmon is best for grilling?
Wild-caught salmon is often more flavorful and has better texture than farmed varieties.
How long do I soak cedar planks?
Soak cedar planks for at least one hour before grilling to prevent burning.
Can I use other woods besides cedar?
Yes, hickory or maple can also impart wonderful flavors when grilling salmon.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon is a flavorful and elegant dish that captures the essence of summer grilling, perfect for your Memorial Day celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillet (skin-on)
- 1 cedar plank (soaked in water for at least 1 hour)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soak the cedar plank in water for at least one hour.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillet in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over it and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
- Remove the soaked cedar plank from the water and place it on one side of the grill. Lay the marinated salmon skin-side down on top of the plank.
- Close the lid and grill for approximately 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with herbs; try substituting dill with thyme or adding lemon zest for an extra zing.
- For a complete meal, consider grilling vegetables like asparagus alongside your salmon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (113g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
