Oh my goodness, let me tell you about cedar plank salmon! This dish is a total game-changer when it comes to grilling. The way the cedar wood infuses the salmon with a smoky, aromatic flavor is just out of this world. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! I remember the first time I made it; I was hosting a small gathering, and the moment I lifted the lid off the grill, everyone was drawn in by that irresistible scent. It was a huge hit! The salmon was tender, flaky, and packed with flavor, and I couldn’t help but bask in the compliments. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll be hooked! I love how simple it is, too. You don’t need fancy equipment or a culinary degree—just a grill, a soaked cedar plank, and a few basic ingredients. This recipe has become a staple in my home, and I’m so excited to share it with you. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best cedar plank salmon! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 whole salmon fillet (about 2 pounds) – Look for fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor.
- 1 cedar plank – Make sure it’s soaked in water for at least 1 hour before grilling to prevent burning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – This adds a lovely richness to the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – For that perfect touch of sweetness that balances the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds a savory depth that brings everything together.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – A hint of tanginess to elevate the taste.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always season to your preference!
That’s it! Simple, right? Once you have these ingredients, you’re ready to start creating a smoky masterpiece!
How to Prepare Cedar Plank Salmon
Getting the perfect cedar plank salmon is all about the little details. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a deliciously smoky, tender dish that’s sure to impress!
Prepping the Grill
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want that steady heat to cook the salmon evenly. While the grill heats up, make sure you have your tools ready—grab some tongs and a spatula. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down until they’re covered with a light gray ash. For gas grills, simply turn the burners on and let it warm up. Easy peasy!
Making the Marinade
Now, let’s whip up that marinade! In a medium-sized bowl, combine your olive oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s nicely blended. You want that sugar to dissolve and the flavors to meld beautifully. This marinade is what makes the salmon shine, so don’t skip this step! Trust me, it’s going to add such depth to your dish.
Preparing the Cedar Plank and Salmon
Next up, it’s time to assemble our masterpiece. Take your soaked cedar plank and place the salmon fillet right on top, skin side down. This is where the magic happens! Brush a generous amount of the marinade over the salmon, making sure it’s nicely coated. A little tip: don’t be afraid to get your hands in there; it’s all about that flavor! Be cautious, though—make sure the plank is well-soaked to avoid burning. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs like dill or rosemary on top for an extra flavor boost. Yum!
Grilling the Salmon
It’s showtime! Carefully place the cedar plank with the salmon on the preheated grill. Close the lid and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. This is where you’ll want to keep an eye on it. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has that gorgeous, smoky aroma wafting through the air. If you’re unsure, you can use a meat thermometer; you’re aiming for an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C). Once it’s ready, remove the plank from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a super moist bite. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about how to make your cedar plank salmon truly exceptional! First off, always make sure your cedar plank is thoroughly soaked. I cannot stress this enough! This prevents it from burning and helps infuse that lovely smoky flavor into the salmon. Aim for at least an hour of soaking, but if you can soak it overnight, even better!
Next, don’t skip the marinating step! The longer you can let that salmon soak in the marinade—30 minutes to an hour is ideal—the more flavorful it will be. And if you have a little extra time, try using a zip-top bag for the marinade; it allows the flavors to cover the salmon more evenly.
When grilling, resist the urge to lift the lid too often. Each time you open it, you lose heat, and that can mess with your cooking time. Just let it do its thing! Also, if you’re cooking on a charcoal grill, consider adding some wood chips for extra smokiness. Just toss them on the coals when they’re hot.
Finally, remember that every grill is different, so keep an eye on your salmon. Cooking times can vary, but trust your instincts—you want it perfectly flaky and tender!
Variations
One of the best things about cedar plank salmon is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to match your taste or whatever you have on hand. For a fresh twist, try adding fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or even basil right on top of the salmon before grilling. These will add a burst of flavor that you’ll absolutely love!
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider mixing in some spices to your marinade. A teaspoon of smoked paprika or some crushed red pepper flakes can give the salmon a delightful kick. And don’t forget about citrus! A few slices of orange or lime placed on top of the salmon while it cooks can elevate the dish with a zesty flair.
You can also experiment with different sweeteners—try using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique sweetness. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity run wild!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! A typical serving of cedar plank salmon (about 6 ounces) packs a flavorful punch while still being relatively healthy. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g – includes 3g of saturated fat
- Protein: 35g – a fantastic source of lean protein!
- Carbohydrates: 5g – very low, perfect for a healthy meal.
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But overall, cedar plank salmon is a delicious option that can fit well into a balanced diet!
FAQ Section
Got questions about cedar plank salmon? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common questions I hear, along with my answers:
Can I use any type of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon is my go-to because of its rich flavor and buttery texture, you can also use other fish like trout or even halibut. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different fish may require adjustments.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem at all! You can bake the cedar plank salmon in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Just place the soaked plank in a baking dish and follow the same marinade steps. You won’t get the smoky flavor quite the same, but it’ll still be delicious!
How do I know when the salmon is done?
Great question! The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has a nice opaque color. If you have a meat thermometer, check for an internal temperature of about 145°F (63°C). This ensures it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Can I prepare the salmon in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the salmon up to 2 hours ahead of time—just keep it in the fridge. This actually helps the flavors develop even more. Just bring it back to room temperature before grilling, so it cooks evenly!
What should I serve with cedar plank salmon?
I love serving it with a fresh salad or some grilled vegetables to keep things light and healthy. It also pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. Just think about balancing those flavors!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving cedar plank salmon, the goal is to complement that smoky, rich flavor! I love pairing it with a light, refreshing arugula salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The peppery arugula adds a nice contrast that brightens the meal! You could also serve it alongside grilled asparagus or zucchini; the char from the grill ties everything together beautifully.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider some quinoa or wild rice on the side. They soak up any extra marinade and provide a lovely nutty flavor. And don’t forget to add some lemon wedges on the plate for a squeeze of brightness right before digging in! Trust me, these simple sides will make your cedar plank salmon shine even more!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some delicious cedar plank salmon leftovers? Lucky you! To store it, let the salmon cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent any funky fridge smells from seeping in. It should stay good for about 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
When it comes to reheating, you want to be gentle to maintain that flaky texture. I recommend popping it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Just cover it loosely with foil to keep it moist. You could also reheat it in a skillet over low heat, just until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can—nobody likes rubbery salmon! Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
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Cedar Plank Salmon: 7 Comforting Steps for Perfect Grilling
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cedar plank salmon is a flavorful dish that infuses the fish with a smoky aroma from the cedar wood.
Ingredients
- 1 whole salmon fillet (about 2 pounds)
- 1 cedar plank (soaked in water for at least 1 hour)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillet on the soaked cedar plank.
- Brush the marinade over the salmon.
- Place the cedar plank on the grill.
- Close the grill lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cedar plank is properly soaked to prevent burning.
- You can add herbs like dill or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Serve with lemon wedges for added zest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (approximately 6 ounces)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: cedar plank salmon, grilled salmon, smoked salmon, fish recipes