Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon is the perfect way to elevate your grilling game with a deliciously smoky flavor and a perfectly tender, juicy salmon fillet. The cedar plank infuses the fish with a subtle woodsy aroma, while the marinade adds a delicious combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors. Grilling the salmon on a cedar plank also helps to keep the fish moist, resulting in a juicy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings, family dinners, or special occasions.

The smoky essence of the cedar wood combined with the caramelized sweetness from brown sugar and the savory depth from soy sauce makes this salmon a truly unique and flavorful dish. Not only is it incredibly simple to prepare, but it also looks impressive when served straight off the grill, making it a showstopper at any barbecue or dinner party. Paired with fresh vegetables or a side of rice, this cedar plank salmon is an easy yet sophisticated option for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich, Smoky Flavor

The cedar plank imparts a delicate smoky flavor to the salmon that enhances its natural taste and takes it to the next level.

2. Moist and Tender

Grilling the salmon on the cedar plank helps retain moisture, making the fish incredibly tender and juicy without drying out.

3. Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of ingredients—many of which you likely already have at home—you can create a delicious and flavorful salmon dish that feels gourmet.

4. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe takes very little time to prep, and the grilling process is straightforward. You can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes!

5. Healthy and Flavorful

Salmon is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and grilling it on a cedar plank allows you to cook it without the need for heavy oils or fats, making it a healthy and flavorful option.

Ingredients

Cedar plank
Salmon fillet
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Water
Vegetable oil
Ground ginger
Garlic powder
Salt
Pepper

Variations

Citrus Glaze: Add the zest and juice of a lemon or orange to the marinade for a fresh citrus twist.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce into the marinade to add some heat to your grilled salmon.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary to the marinade for added fragrance and flavor.
Maple Glaze: Swap the brown sugar for pure maple syrup to create a sweet, caramelized glaze that complements the smoky cedar flavor.
Grilled Vegetables: Grill a selection of your favorite vegetables (like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers) alongside the salmon for a complete, flavorful meal.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Cedar Plank

Begin by soaking your cedar plank in water for at least 2 hours to prevent it from catching fire on the grill. You can also soak it overnight for best results.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating, prepare the marinade.

Step 3: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, vegetable oil, ground ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillet on a flat surface, skin-side down. Brush the salmon generously with the soy sauce marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Grill the Salmon

Place the soaked cedar plank on the preheated grill. Put the salmon fillet directly on the plank, skin-side down, and brush with more marinade. Close the lid of the grill.

Step 6: Grill and Check for Doneness

Grill the salmon for 20–25 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillet, so check for doneness after 15 minutes to ensure it’s not overcooked.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the salmon is cooked through, remove the cedar plank from the grill. Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it hot with your favorite sides!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Soak the Plank Long Enough: Soaking the cedar plank for at least 2 hours ensures it won’t catch fire on the grill and that it will release its smoky aroma during the grilling process.
Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon is best when it’s slightly pink in the center and flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking it can cause it to dry out.
Grill with the Lid Closed: Closing the grill lid helps trap heat and smoke, ensuring even cooking and infusing the salmon with the smoky flavor from the cedar plank.
Use Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. If using frozen salmon, make sure it’s completely thawed before grilling.
Add Garnishes: After grilling, top the salmon with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

How to Serve

This Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, grilled corn, or a fresh green salad. It’s also excellent with a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices. For an extra touch, drizzle with a lemon or lime wedge for a citrusy finish. You can also serve it alongside a creamy sauce, such as a yogurt-based tzatziki, for a cooling contrast to the smoky flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover grilled salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh, ensure the salmon is wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

Grilled salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat grilled salmon, place it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

FAQs

1. Do I need to remove the skin from the salmon before grilling it?

No, it’s best to leave the skin on. The skin helps to hold the salmon together while grilling and adds flavor. You can easily remove the skin after cooking if desired.

2. Can I use a different wood for grilling?

While cedar is the traditional wood used for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of wood planks like alder or hickory for different flavor profiles.

3. How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

Salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque and moist.

4. Can I use a grill pan instead of a cedar plank?

You can use a grill pan if you don’t have a cedar plank, but you will miss out on the unique smoky flavor that the plank provides. If you choose to use a pan, ensure the salmon is well-seasoned and oiled.

5. Can I marinate the salmon overnight?

Yes, marinating the salmon overnight will intensify the flavors. Just make sure to cover the salmon and refrigerate it until ready to cook.

6. How can I make the salmon spicier?

To add some heat, include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. You can also rub the salmon with cayenne pepper before grilling.

7. Can I make this recipe on a charcoal grill?

Absolutely! A charcoal grill will add even more smoky flavor to the salmon. Just ensure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the cedar plank on it.

8. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh salmon, but if you have frozen salmon, ensure it is fully thawed before grilling.

9. Can I serve the salmon cold?

Yes, Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon can be served cold, making it perfect for a salad or as part of a chilled seafood platter.

10. What can I serve with Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon?

Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon goes well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a simple salad with lemon vinaigrette.

Conclusion

Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon is a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and smoky flavor in their grilled seafood. The simple ingredients and easy preparation process make this dish a perfect choice for casual barbecues or special occasions. With its tender, juicy texture and aromatic flavor, this salmon is guaranteed to impress your guests and elevate your grilling experience. Try it today, and enjoy the delicious combination of smoky cedar and succulent salmon!