When it comes to grilling fish, few dishes are as impressive as cedar plank salmon. Grilling on a cedar plank isn’t just for show – it’s a tried and true method that infuses the salmon with rich, woodsy notes while keeping the fish perfectly moist and flaky. It also prevents the fillet from sticking to the grill or falling apart, making it a practical choice for anyone who’s ever lost a piece of fish between the grates. For big flavor with minimal fuss, look no further than this Pacific Northwest crowd-pleaser.
Recipe for Cedar Plank Salmon
Ingredients:
- 1 untreated cedar plank (available at most grocery stores or hardware stores)
- 1 to 2 pounds of TBS salmon fillet (skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: fresh dill, lemon slices, or green onions for garnish
Directions:
1. Soak the Cedar Plank
At least one hour before grilling, soak the cedar plank in water so it doesn’t catch fire on the grill. Weigh it down with a plate or bowl to keep it submerged.
2. Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry and place it skin-side down on a plate. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, maple syrup or brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Brush the glaze generously over the salmon.
3. Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium (about 350°F–375°F). If using charcoal, let the coals burn down until they’re covered with white ash. Place the soaked plank directly on the grill grates and close the lid for a few minutes until it begins to crackle.
4. Grill the Salmon
Carefully place the salmon skin-side down on the hot cedar plank. Close the grill lid and cook for 15-25 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 125°F–130°F for medium.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Use tongs and a tray to carefully remove the plank from the grill. Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs or lemon slices. Serve on the plank for a rustic presentation.
Tips & Variations
- Keep water nearby: If the plank flares up, spray it with water.
- Customize the glaze: Use soy sauce, sriracha, honey, or citrus zest to make it your own.
- Make it a meal: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, wild rice, and a crisp green salad.
Catch Fresh Salmon at The Butcher Shop
Smoky aroma, tender texture, and bold flavor make cedar plank salmon a standout dish. For extra flavor, start with fresh salmon from The Butcher Shop. Our seafood shipments come in every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and can be served on your plate within 24 hours of being caught – it doesn’t get any fresher than that! We also carry freshly baked loaves of bread, high-quality pantry essentials, and everything else you need to make it a meal. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.