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Perfect Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Fresh Dill

cedar plank salmon - featured image

This cedar plank salmon recipe is easy, flavorful, and perfect for summer cookouts or dinner parties. The cedar plank infuses the salmon with a subtle smoky flavor, complemented by fresh dill and lemon for a bright, herbaceous finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each (170 grams)
  • 1 untreated cedar plank, soaked in water for at least 1 hour
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Soak the cedar plank in cold water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Optionally, score the skin in a crosshatch pattern.
  4. Brush the marinade generously over both sides of the salmon fillets, allowing some dill to stick to the surface.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C). Clean and lightly oil the grates.
  6. Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill over direct heat. Close the lid and warm the plank for 3-5 minutes until it starts to smoke gently.
  7. Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the cedar plank. Close the grill lid and cook for 12-15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  8. Monitor the plank to prevent flare-ups; spritz with water if necessary.
  9. Use tongs or a spatula to remove the plank from the grill. Let salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.
  10. Optional: squeeze fresh lemon juice over salmon before serving.

Notes

Soak the cedar plank well to prevent burning. Use medium-high heat to avoid plank flare-ups. Do not overcook salmon to keep it moist and flaky. Fresh dill is preferred for best flavor; dried dill can be substituted in smaller amounts. If no grill is available, bake on a soaked cedar plank in a 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: cedar plank salmon, grilled salmon, fresh dill salmon, easy salmon recipe, summer cookout, healthy salmon, smoky salmon