Name: Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon: Elevate Your Summer Dining Experience
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (or Coconut Aminos for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or avocado oil); 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar; 2 tablespoons Lime Juice; 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated); 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil; 1 teaspoon Fish Sauce (optional); 2 tablespoons Honey; 1 teaspoon Salt; 4 oz Salmon fillets (skin on or off); 2 pieces Cedar Planks (soaked in water before grilling); 1 sprig Fresh dill; 2 slices Lemon

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The moment the cedar plank hits the grill, it releases a fragrant cloud that whispers of summer evenings and outdoor gatherings. I can picture the glistening salmon nestled atop, infusing the air with a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky notes. My Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon recipe is not just a dish; it’s a truly elegant experience that transforms your regular weekday dinner into a memorable affair. With a quick prep time and a delightful honey ginger marinade, this meal is designed to impress without all the fuss. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself to a gourmet night in, this recipe beautifully bridges the gap between effortless cooking and elegant dining. Curious about how to elevate your grilling game while keeping it healthy? Let’s dive in!

Why Choose Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon?

Elegant Dining: Transform any meal into a gourmet experience with the sophisticated flavor of cedar smoke.
Quick Prep: With minimal hands-on time, prep your marinade and let it work its magic—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Flavor Explosion: The honey ginger marinade is a perfect harmony of sweet and savory that pleases everyone’s palate.
Versatile Pairings: Serve alongside grilled vegetables, chilled cucumber salad, or even create salmon bowls for a delightful twist. If you’re craving something different, check out our Grilled Chicken Burrito for another grilling favorite!
Healthy Alternative: Enjoy a gluten-free meal by opting for coconut aminos in the marinade—savor deliciousness with every bite!

Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon Ingredients

• For those looking to create a truly memorable dish, knowing the right ingredients for Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon is essential!

For the Marinade

Soy Sauce (or Coconut Aminos) – Adds umami flavor; coconut aminos can be used for a gluten-free option.
Rice Vinegar – Provides a tangy brightness to balance the sweetness.
Olive Oil – Moisturizes the salmon, but you can substitute with avocado oil for a different taste.
Balsamic Vinegar – Contributes a hint of sweetness and depth to the marinade.
Lime Juice – Brightens the flavor profile and complements the richness of the salmon.
Garlic, minced – Delivers warmth and a robust sharpness that enhances the marinade.
Fresh Ginger, grated – Infuses the dish with an aromatic and spicy kick.
Sesame Oil – Enhances the depth with a nutty essence.
Fish Sauce – Intensifies umami flavor, though it’s optional.
Honey – Adds sweetness and aids in creating a beautifully caramelized glaze; adjust according to your taste.
Salt – Balances all the flavors in the marinade.

For the Main Dish

Salmon fillets (4oz each) – The star protein of the dish; skin on or off is your choice.
Cedar Planks – Essential for that unique aroma and to prevent the salmon from sticking; don’t forget to soak them in water before grilling!

For Garnishing (optional)

Fresh dill – Adds a fresh herbal note.
Lemon slices – Perfect touch for added flavor and stunning presentation.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon

Step 1: Soak Cedar Planks
Begin by soaking your cedar planks in water for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. This step is crucial as it prevents the planks from burning on the grill and infuses the salmon with a delicious cedar aroma during cooking. Ensure the planks are fully submerged and use a weight if necessary.

Step 2: Prepare Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option), rice vinegar, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and honey. Whisk the mixture until well blended and smooth, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. This honey ginger marinade will keep your Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Marinate Salmon
Place your salmon fillets in a zip-top bag and pour the freshly prepared marinade over them. Seal the bag and gently massage to coat the salmon evenly. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, allowing the fish to absorb the marinade’s rich flavors. This step is crucial for achieving a delightful balance of sweet and savory in your grilled salmon.

Step 4: Preheat Grill
While the salmon marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F). Cleaning the grates with a brush will ensure a great grilling surface and help prevent sticking. Once preheated, be ready to place the cedar plank on the grill for an aromatic cooking experience with your Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon.

Step 5: Prep Cedar Plank
After soaking, remove the cedar planks from the water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Place the marinated salmon fillets skin-side down on the plank, making sure they fit comfortably without overlapping. The cedar plank will impart a wonderful flavor while keeping the fish from sticking to the grill.

Step 6: Grill Salmon
Carefully place the prepared cedar plank with salmon directly on the hot grill. Close the lid and grill for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Maintain that medium-high heat to maximize the smoky flavor from the cedar wood.

Step 7: Serve
Once done, carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill and let the salmon rest for a few minutes. Optionally, garnish your Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon with fresh dill and lemon slices for an elegant touch before serving. The finish is a beautifully charred salmon that’s bursting with smoky flavor, ready to wow your family and friends!

Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon Variations

Feel free to personalize your Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon with these unique twists that will delight your senses!

Add Heat: Incorporate chili paste or sriracha in the marinade for a spicy kick. If you love a bit of heat, this will enhance the dish’s flavor profile beautifully!
Citrus Swap: Use orange or grapefruit juice instead of lime for a refreshing citrus twist. This makes the salmon even more bright and intriguing—the perfect summer addition!
Herb Infusion: Lay fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on the cedar plank before grilling to amplify the aromatic experience. The herbs will mingle with the smoke, creating an unforgettable flavor.
Experiment with Woods: Try various wood planks like alder or hickory to switch up the smoky profile. Each wood type brings its unique essence to the dish—experiment and find your favorite!
Create Salmon Bowls: Shred the grilled salmon and serve it over rice or couscous alongside avocado and pickled vegetables. It transforms your salmon into a trendy bowl dish, perfect for any meal!
Sweeten the Deal: For a fruity twist, add a drizzle of maple syrup or brown sugar to the marinade. This enhances the caramelization and gives a delightful sweetness!
Veggie Boost: Add thinly sliced zucchini or bell peppers to the grill alongside the salmon. The veggies will absorb the cedar smoke flavor, offering a harmonic side to your meal.
Asian Flare: Mix in sesame seeds and green onions to the marinade for a delightful Asian-inspired twist. This simple change can elevate your dish and impress your guests.

If you’re seeking more culinary inspiration, consider serving your salmon alongside some crispy grilled veggies or a refreshing chilled cucumber salad. For another exciting recipe, don’t miss our Honey Sriracha Salmon which boasts delightful sweetness and spice!

Make Ahead Options

Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor its rich flavors on your busiest days! You can marinate the salmon fillets up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the marinade, pour it over the salmon in a zip-top bag, seal, and refrigerate. The cedar planks can also be soaked ahead of time, just be sure to keep them submerged in water until you’re ready to grill, preventing any burning. When it’s time to serve, simply preheat your grill, place the marinated salmon on the cedar plank, and grill for 10-15 minutes. You’ll achieve that perfectly flaky, smoky salmon with minimal effort—a winning dish for your busy weeknight gatherings!

Expert Tips for Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon

Perfect Soaking Duration: Soak the cedar planks for at least 30 minutes, but don’t exceed 2 hours to avoid overly saturated wood, which may lead to unwanted flavors.
Marinade Magic: Allow the salmon to marinate for the full 30 minutes. This lets the honey ginger flavors penetrate deeply, avoiding bland spots on your Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon.
Lid Closed: Keep the grill lid closed while cooking to trap the cedar smoke; this enhances the salmon’s flavor profile and prevents it from drying out.
Check Doneness Often: Avoid overcooking by checking the salmon’s internal temperature with a thermometer—145°F is the sweet spot for perfectly flaky fish.
Resting Time Counts: Allow the salmon to rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This redistributes the juices, securing maximum moisture in your final dish.

How to Store and Freeze Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon

Fridge: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures it remains fresh and ready for enjoying cold in salads or sandwiches.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the salmon in a tightly sealed freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the salmon in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave to keep the texture intact.
Serving Suggestions: Leftover Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon also works beautifully flaked over salads, grain bowls, or mixed into creamy pasta dishes for a quick and delicious meal.

What to Serve with Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon

Get ready to create a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements your cedar plank grilled salmon; these pairing ideas will elevate your meal to new heights.

Grilled Asparagus: The slight char and freshness of asparagus add a vibrant crunch that beautifully balances the rich salmon flavors.
Lemon-Infused Quinoa: Light and zesty, this fluffy base is a great way to soak up the delicious honey ginger juices drizzled over the salmon. It’s a gluten-free option that brings a delightful nutty flavor.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad brings a cool contrast to the warmth of the grilled salmon, making it perfect for summer meals. Toss in some feta for added creaminess.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy and flavorful with herbs, this side is not only quick to prepare but also complements the cedar’s smoky taste without overpowering it.
Sweet Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the sweet, juicy kernels offer a classic seasonal pairing, enhancing the sweet notes of the salmon marinade.
Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of this crisp white wine enhances the dish’s bright flavors and cleanses the palate beautifully after each bite.
Grilled Zucchini: Tender and slightly smoky, zucchini is the perfect pair to bring in some fiber and additional nutrients while keeping the meal light.
Berry Crisp: To finish the meal on a sweet note, a warm berry crisp topped with vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the savory salmon. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate summer’s bounty!
Mixed Greens Salad: Lightly dressed with a lemon vinaigrette, this adds a fresh crunch to the meal, balancing richness with each bite.
Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing drink option, sparkling water garnished with lime offers a bubbly contrast, cleansing the palate and enhancing every tasting experience.

Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best salmon for grilling?
Absolutely! When selecting salmon, look for fresh fillets with vibrant color and a moist appearance. The flesh should bounce back when gently pressed, and avoid any that looks dull or has dark spots all over. Wild-caught salmon tends to have richer flavor and better texture, but farmed salmon can also be delicious.

What’s the best way to store leftover Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon?
You can store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing it up. For longer storage, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag or container to keep it fresh for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon, and if so, how?
Yes! To freeze your Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, followed by placing them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. This will help preserve the flavor and texture. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat to retain its moisture.

What should I do if my salmon is overcooked?
Very! If you accidentally overcook your salmon and it turns out dry, try serving it with a flavored sauce or dressing such as a lemon herb sauce or a yogurt-based dressing. This can bring back some moisture and enhance the dish. Another option is to flake the salmon into a salad or pasta where the other ingredients can add moisture, helping mask the dryness.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! For those with gluten sensitivities, simply substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos to create a gluten-free option. Additionally, always ensure that other seasonings or sides used are also gluten-free. If serving to pets, avoid any seasonings like garlic or onion, which can be harmful to them.

Can I use other types of wood for grilling besides cedar?
The more the merrier! While cedar provides a unique smoky flavor, you can experiment with other woods like alder or hickory for different flavor profiles. Each type of wood will impart its unique aroma to the fish, so feel free to try different combinations to find your preferred taste.