Cedar Plank Salmon

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The first time I made cedar plank salmon at home, I was blown away by the incredible aroma that filled my kitchen. That smoky, woodsy scent clung to the tender, flaky salmon and turned a simple dinner into something unforgettable. Since then, this has become one of my favorite ways to prepare salmon, especially when I’m hosting a small dinner party or just want to treat myself to a special meal.

I’ve always loved salmon for its richness and versatility, but cooking it on a cedar plank adds a depth of flavor you just can’t get from other methods. There’s something magical about the way the cedar infuses the fish with its essence while keeping it perfectly moist. Plus, it looks so beautiful when served right on the plank — rustic yet elegant.

What I also love about this recipe is how little effort it actually takes. The hardest part is waiting for the plank to soak and the grill to heat up, but once it’s on there, the salmon cooks to perfection with minimal fuss. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is totally approachable, even if you’re not an experienced cook. If you enjoy flavorful main dishes, you should also check out my marry me chicken pasta and my creamy garlic chicken breasts — both are equally satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Cedar Plank Salmon

This cedar plank salmon is full of irresistible smoky flavor and stays incredibly juicy thanks to the cedar plank steaming it gently as it cooks. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for company. You’ll love how little cleanup it requires too — no stuck-on bits or scrubbing pans. And let’s not forget that gorgeous presentation that will have everyone thinking you spent hours in the kitchen when really, you didn’t!

Ingredients

Salmon fillet: The star of the show — rich, buttery, and full of healthy omega-3s, salmon is perfect for soaking up that smoky cedar flavor.

Cedar plank: This is essential. The plank not only imparts its signature aroma but also keeps the salmon moist and prevents it from sticking to the grill.

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the seasonings adhere to the salmon.

Salt and pepper: The basics that bring out the natural flavors of the fish.

Lemon slices: These add brightness and a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the salmon.

Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley): They add a fresh, green pop of flavor and color to the finished dish.

How to Make Cedar Plank Salmon

Step 1: Soak the Plank

Fill a large baking dish or sink with water and submerge your cedar plank. Let it soak for at least one hour to prevent it from catching fire on the grill.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Rub it with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper. Place a few lemon slices and sprigs of fresh herbs on top.

Step 3: Heat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 350°F. If you’re using charcoal, wait until the coals are glowing and covered with ash.

Step 4: Grill the Salmon

Place the soaked plank on the grill grates, close the lid, and heat it for about 5 minutes until it starts to smoke. Then lay the salmon on the plank, close the lid again, and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the plank from the grill (it will be hot!) and serve the salmon directly on it for a stunning presentation.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re feeling adventurous, try brushing the salmon with a maple glaze or a honey-soy sauce for a sweet-and-savory twist. You can also sprinkle it with smoked paprika or chili flakes if you like a little heat. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs will work in a pinch, though fresh is always best. For a different fish, you can substitute steelhead trout or even Arctic char, which also cook beautifully on a cedar plank.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This cedar plank salmon pairs wonderfully with a light salad, like my broccoli salad or some oven-roasted vegetables. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir complements the smoky richness perfectly. If you’re serving it for a special occasion, consider starting with a fresh appetizer and finishing with a summery dessert like cheesecake bars.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the salmon. You can also flake cold salmon into salads or sandwiches for an easy next-day meal.

FAQs

How long does cedar plank salmon take to cook?

Cedar plank salmon typically cooks in 15-20 minutes on a medium grill, depending on the thickness of the fillet.

Can I reuse the cedar plank for another cedar plank salmon?

If the plank hasn’t burned through, you can rinse it, dry it thoroughly, and reuse it once or twice more.

Do I need to soak the plank for cedar plank salmon?

Yes! Soaking the plank for at least an hour prevents it from catching fire and helps it produce fragrant smoke.

What’s the best way to serve cedar plank salmon?

Serve it directly on the plank for a rustic, beautiful presentation. Add fresh herbs and lemon wedges for garnish.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved this cedar plank salmon, you’ll also enjoy my bourbon peach BBQ chicken and air fryer bang bang salmon bites — both are packed with bold, irresistible flavors and perfect for a weeknight or a casual gathering.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this cedar plank salmon recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it easily next time. If you try it and love it, feel free to share the recipe with your friends and family on Facebook, Instagram, or even by email. Your support means the world, and I’d love to see how your version turns out!

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