Cedar Plank Salmon

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Perfectly smoky, tender, and bursting with flavor, Cedar Plank Salmon is a show-stopping dish that delivers restaurant-quality results from the comfort of your backyard grill or oven. The cedar plank infuses the salmon with an earthy aroma while keeping the fish moist and flakey. With a blend of spice rub and fresh herbs, this dish is an impressive yet surprisingly easy meal to prepare.

Whether you’re planning a summer cookout, a cozy weekend dinner, or simply want to elevate your seafood game, cedar plank salmon is the way to go. It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, herb rice, or a fresh summer salad. Once you try this smoky-sweet preparation, it might just become your go-to salmon recipe.

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What Kind of Cedar Plank Should I Use?

Always use untreated, food-grade cedar planks made specifically for cooking. You can usually find them in the grilling section of grocery stores or online. Be sure to soak the plank in water for at least 1-2 hours before grilling to prevent it from catching fire and to allow the wood to smolder slowly, releasing those signature smoky aromas.

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Ingredients for the Cedar Plank Salmon

Salmon Fillet – The star of the dish. Choose skin-on fillets for better texture and moisture retention.

Cedar Plank – Imparts a warm, woodsy flavor and helps regulate heat during cooking.

Olive Oil – Adds richness and prevents sticking while helping the seasoning cling to the fish.

Brown Sugar – Brings sweetness and aids in caramelization for a slightly crispy top.

Smoked Paprika – Deepens the smoky profile and enhances the natural flavor of the salmon.

Garlic Powder – Adds a savory kick that complements the sweet and smoky rub.

Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing all the flavors.

Fresh Dill and Parsley – For garnish and a touch of bright herbal freshness.

Optional: Lemon wedges or herb sauce – Adds zing and a refreshing contrast to the smoky fish.

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How To Make the Cedar Plank Salmon

Step 1: Soak the Plank

Submerge your cedar plank in water for at least 1-2 hours before cooking. Weigh it down with a heavy object to keep it fully submerged. This prevents the wood from burning and helps it release aromatic smoke during grilling.

Step 2: Prep the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 375°F. If using an oven, preheat to the same temperature and place a baking sheet on the middle rack to catch any drips.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Rub it with olive oil, then sprinkle brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the top.

Step 4: Grill on the Plank

Place the soaked plank directly on the grill grates and let it heat up for 3-5 minutes. Flip it over and lay the salmon skin-side down on the warm side. Close the lid and cook for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove the plank from the grill and rest the salmon for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped dill and parsley. Serve with lemon wedges or a drizzle of herb sauce if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Cedar Plank Salmon

This salmon is best served hot off the plank, ideally with sides like roasted asparagus, quinoa, or a citrusy couscous salad. If you’re serving a crowd, slice the fillet right on the plank for a rustic, impressive presentation.

To store leftovers, let the salmon cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or flake it cold into salads and wraps.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I soak the cedar plank?

At least 1-2 hours. The longer the better to ensure it doesn’t burn and produces the right amount of smoke.

Can I reuse a cedar plank?

Only if it hasn’t been charred too much. Rinse it off and store in a dry place—but most people use a new one for best flavor and safety.

Can I make this in the oven instead of the grill?

Yes! Just place the soaked plank with salmon on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.

How do I know when salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

What can I serve with cedar plank salmon?

Grilled corn, lemon-garlic potatoes, herbed rice, or a green salad with vinaigrette make excellent pairings.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. The cooked salmon keeps well and can be flaked into pasta, grain bowls, or sandwiches during the week.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with Big Flavor?

If you love this cedar plank salmon, check out these other savory dishes:

• Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowls for a Mediterranean-inspired bite.
• Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sauteed Garlic Butter Chicken if you’re craving creamy comfort.
• Honey Garlic Ribs for sticky, sweet-savory indulgence.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for a pasta night favorite.
• Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup if you’re feeling something cozy and bold.

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Tried this cedar plank salmon at home? Let me know in the comments! Did you serve it with herb sauce or go for classic lemon? Maybe you added a kick with chili flakes?

I love hearing how others bring their own twist to this dish. Ask your questions too—let’s make every salmon night a success.

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