Cedar Plank Salmon: Your New Summer BBQ Staple

Introduction

Transform humble salmon fillets into a restaurant-quality meal with this surprisingly simple cedar plank recipe! Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special summer occasion. We’ll elevate everyday ingredients with a touch of smoky cedar flavor and create a dish that’s both impressive and effortlessly delicious.

Why This Works

This recipe works because it’s a beautiful balance of simplicity and sophistication. The cedar plank infuses the salmon with a subtle smoky aroma and flavor that elevates the taste beyond a simple grilled fillet. The minimal ingredients highlight the natural flavors of the salmon, and the quick cooking time means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious meal. Impress your friends and family with this effortless yet elegant dish.

Key Ingredients

🐟 1.5 lbs salmon fillet, skin on
🌲 1 cedar plank, soaked in water for at least 2 hours
🍋 1 lemon, thinly sliced
🌿 2 sprigs fresh dill
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🧂 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
💧 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Plank: Ensure your cedar plank has been soaking in water for at least 2 hours. This prevents it from burning during cooking.
2️⃣ Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3️⃣ Assemble the Plank: Place the soaked cedar plank on a grill or baking sheet. Arrange the lemon slices and minced garlic on the plank.
4️⃣ Place the Salmon: Carefully place the salmon fillet on top of the lemon and garlic on the plank. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh dill sprigs.
5️⃣ Grill or Bake: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the plank directly on the grill grates and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the plank on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
6️⃣ Serve: Carefully remove the salmon from the plank and serve immediately.

Handy Tips

• Soaking the Plank: Don’t skip this step! Soaking prevents the plank from catching fire and burning.
• Salmon Thickness: Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillet. Thicker fillets will require longer cooking time.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.

Heat Control

For grilling, maintain a medium heat to avoid burning the plank or overcooking the salmon. Visually monitor the salmon’s color; it should turn opaque and flake easily when cooked through. For baking, use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature. Overbaking will result in dry salmon.

Crunch Factor

This recipe focuses on tender, flaky salmon. The cedar plank adds a subtle smoky flavor, but the focus is on the delicate texture of the fish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Prep Ahead: Soak the cedar plank and prep the garlic and lemon slices ahead of time to save time on cooking day.
• Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked salmon for extra brightness.
• Easy Cleanup: Line your baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.

Storage Tips

Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This dish is perfect for a summer gathering! You can present it beautifully on the cedar plank itself, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. For a more portable option, carefully remove the salmon from the plank and package it in a charming reusable container with a pretty ribbon.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño to the plank for a spicy kick.
🌟 Mediterranean Salmon: Include chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
🌟 Maple-Glazed Salmon: Brush the salmon with a mixture of maple syrup and Dijon mustard during the last few minutes of cooking.
🌟 Teriyaki Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a teriyaki sauce before grilling or baking.

Troubleshooting

• Dry Salmon: If your salmon is dry, you likely overcooked it. Reduce cooking time next time.
• Burnt Plank: Make sure your plank is thoroughly soaked before using it.
• Undercooked Salmon: If your salmon is undercooked, return it to the grill or oven and cook for a few more minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of wood plank? While cedar is ideal for its flavor, you can experiment with other types of wood planks designed for grilling or baking. Always ensure they are food-safe.
• Can I scale this recipe up or down? Yes, you can easily adjust the recipe to accommodate more or fewer servings. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy this easy and elegant cedar plank salmon recipe! It’s a perfect way to impress your guests or treat yourself to a delicious summer meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor combinations and share your creations with us! Happy cooking!