Looking for a meal that’s simple to prepare yet impressively delicious? This cedar plank salmon is just the answer. Cooking salmon on a cedar plank infuses it with subtle smoky notes while keeping the fish tender and moist. A mix of lemon, garlic, dill, and steak seasoning creates a mouthwatering blend of flavors. Pair it with rice and grilled veggies for a complete and memorable meal. Once you see how easy it is to make, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite for your cookouts and family dinners.
Ingredients for Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon
- 1 cedar grilling plank
- 2–4 lb (900 g–1.8 kg) filet of fresh salmon or steelhead, preferably with skin
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice
- 1 tbsp (15 g) Montreal steak seasoning
- 1 1/2 tsp (7-8 g) garlic powder
- 1 1/2 tsp (7-8 g) dill weed
Instructions for Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon
- Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents the plank from catching fire and ensures even cooking.
- Drizzle the non-skin side of the salmon filet with lemon juice.
- Season the same side of the filet with Montreal steak seasoning, garlic powder, and dill weed. Ensure even coverage across the surface; precise measurements are less critical than an even spread.
- Preheat the grill. Place the soaked cedar plank onto the grill grates and heat until the exposed side of the plank begins to smoke lightly.
- Flip the plank over so the smoked side faces up. This helps enhance the flavor when the fish cooks.
- Lay the salmon filet, skin side down, onto the cedar plank. Close the grill lid to maintain consistent heat and smoky flavor.
- Grill the salmon for 10–20 minutes, depending on the heat of your grill and the thickness of the filet. Watch for white protein (albumin) to appear along the seams of the fish. This is a good indicator that the salmon is cooked. Use a timer or stopwatch to keep track of cooking time for future reference.
- To serve, use a spatula to separate the fish from the skin, which will likely stick to the plank. Carefully slide the spatula the length of the filet to lift it off in one piece. Garnish with lemon slices along the filet for a decorative touch, if desired.
Grilled cedar plank salmon is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. The aromatic cedar plank enhances the salmon’s natural flavors, while the seasoning blend adds a delicious zest to every bite. Serve it straight off the plank for a rustic presentation, or transfer it to a platter for a more polished look. Whether it’s a casual barbecue or a special dinner, this dish is sure to impress. After one taste, you’ll understand why it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe collection.
