The scent of cedar wood mingling with the rich aroma of fresh salmon is like a warm hug from Mother Nature herself. When you grill this Memorial Day Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon, expect your taste buds to dance like they just won the lottery. Imagine tender fillets infused with smoky goodness while you bask in the sunshine and enjoy quality time with friends and family.
Memorial Day isn’t just about the barbecues; it’s an invitation to celebrate life, laughter, and delicious food. Picture this: you’re at your backyard barbecue, and someone lifts the lid off the grill to reveal perfectly cooked salmon resting on a cedar plank. The vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas will have everyone gathering around like moths to a flame, eager for a taste of what you’ve created.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This grilled cedar plank salmon is simple yet impressive enough to wow your guests.
- Enjoy a blend of smoky flavors and juicy textures that make every bite unforgettable.
- The vivid presentation adds a gourmet touch to any meal while being versatile enough for weeknight dinners or festive occasions.
I remember one summer barbecue where I served this dish for the first time; my friends’ eyes lit up like Christmas morning when they tasted it.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh or thawed wild-caught fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Cedar Plank: Soak in water for at least an hour before grilling to prevent burning and add moisture.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor profile that complements the fish beautifully.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the salmon.
- Garlic Powder: This pantry staple adds depth without overwhelming the delicate flavor of the fish.
- Dill or Parsley: Fresh herbs provide a pop of color and freshness that elevate this dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; don’t skimp!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Soak Your Cedar Plank: Begin by soaking your cedar plank in water for at least an hour. This step prevents it from catching fire on the grill while infusing your fish with aromatic flavors.
Prepare Your Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This zesty marinade will coat your salmon perfectly.
Season Your Salmon: Place your salmon fillets on a plate and brush them generously with the marinade. Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley over each piece for added brightness.
Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F). If you’re using charcoal, let the coals burn down until they’re covered in white ash—this ensures even cooking.
Place Salmon on Cedar Plank: Carefully place your marinated salmon fillets skin-side down on the soaked cedar plank. Ensure they are spaced out so they cook evenly.
Grill It Up: Put your cedar plank directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork—don’t forget to smell that divine aroma!
This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning when served straight from the grill on its fragrant cedar plank!
Remember that cooking times may vary based on thickness; keep an eye on it so you don’t miss out on perfection! The joy of grilling comes from both its simplicity and rewarding flavors—enjoy every moment!
You Must Know
- Grilling on cedar planks infuses salmon with a smoky flavor while keeping it moist.
- The cedar’s aroma makes your backyard feel like a gourmet restaurant.
- Remember to soak the planks for at least an hour to prevent them from burning.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Soak your cedar planks in water for an hour before grilling. Preheat your grill, then place the planks on the grates. Once they start to smoke, add the salmon and close the lid for perfect cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize with different herbs or spices, such as dill or garlic powder. You can even top with a slice of lemon for extra zing. Experimenting adds your personal flair to this dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use low heat in the oven to maintain moisture and flavor without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always preheat your grill well before adding the planks; this ensures good smoke production.
- Use skin-on salmon to help keep it moist during grilling.
- Serve with lemon wedges for that extra citrusy kick.
Cooking cedar plank salmon reminds me of my first solo barbecue attempt. I confidently tossed everything on the grill only to find my friends oohing and aahing over my “chef skills.” Little did they know, it was all about those cedar planks!
FAQ
What type of salmon should I use for Memorial Day Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon?
Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon if available; it’s more flavorful than farmed varieties.
How long should I soak my cedar plank before grilling?
Soak your cedar plank for at least one hour to prevent burning during grilling.
Can I use other types of fish with this method?
Absolutely! This method works wonderfully with trout or any firm white fish.
Memorial Day Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon
Memorial Day Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon is a flavorful, smoky dish that brings friends and family together for outdoor celebrations. Impress your guests with this simple yet elegant recipe.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cedar plank (soaked in water for at least 1 hour)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soak the cedar plank in water for at least one hour to prevent burning during grilling.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Brush the salmon fillets with the marinade and sprinkle fresh dill or parsley on top.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (approximately 350°F).
- Place the salmon skin-side down on the soaked cedar plank, ensuring space between each piece.
- Put the cedar plank directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- Customize your dish by experimenting with different herbs like tarragon or adding lemon slices on top of the salmon before grilling.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the salmon for up to an hour before grilling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 109mg
