A juicy piece of grilled cedar plank salmon sizzling away on the barbecue is the sound of summer. The aroma wafts through the air, mingling with laughter and sunshine—a perfect backdrop for your Memorial Day celebrations. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that invites friends and family to gather around the grill, sharing stories as the flavors mingle.
I remember one sunny afternoon when I first tried this recipe during a family gathering. Everyone was skeptical about cooking fish on a plank—until they took that first bite. The smoky aroma combined with tender salmon melted in their mouths like a culinary hug. You could practically hear everyone’s taste buds cheering!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy summer days.
- The vibrant flavors meld beautifully together, creating an unforgettable dish.
- The visual appeal of the cedar plank adds a rustic charm to your table setting.
- It’s versatile enough to impress guests at barbecues or casual dinners alike.
One memorable time I prepared this dish was during last year’s family reunion. My cousin almost claimed he’d never eat fish again—until I served him this masterpiece!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cedar Plank: Make sure to soak it in water for at least an hour before grilling to prevent burning.
- Fresh Salmon Fillet: Look for wild-caught salmon if possible; it’s fresher and tastier than farmed varieties.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over the salmon before seasoning.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the fish.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder adds depth without overwhelming the delicate flavor of the salmon.
- Dill Weed: Fresh or dried dill complements salmon beautifully; don’t skip this fragrant herb!
- Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in this dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Cedar Plank: Soak your cedar plank in water for at least an hour before grilling. This prevents it from catching fire while infusing smoke into your salmon.
Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat—around 375°F (190°C). A well-heated grill ensures even cooking and those beautiful sear marks.
Prep Your Salmon Fillet: Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on a plate. Drizzle with olive oil, squeezing fresh lemon juice over it generously.
Season Generously: Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dill weed evenly over the fillet. Don’t be shy; these spices are here to elevate flavor!
Grill It Up!: Carefully place the soaked cedar plank on the hot grill grates. Close the lid and let it heat up until you hear a crackling sound—this is when magic happens!
Add Your Salmon to Cook: Once your plank starts smoking slightly (the good kind), lay your seasoned salmon on top of it skin-side down. Close the lid again and grill for about 15-20 minutes until flaky perfection.
Enjoy this delightful journey into flavor! Each bite of smoky cedar-infused salmon will make you feel like a culinary hero at every gathering!
You Must Know
- This Memorial Day Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon recipe combines smoky flavor with tender texture, creating a dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
- The aromatic cedar plank enhances the salmon’s natural richness, ensuring every bite is delicious and memorable.
- Impress your guests without breaking a sweat.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by soaking the cedar plank in water for at least an hour. Preheat your grill, then place the salmon on the plank. This method ensures even cooking while infusing it with rich flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with marinades or herbs! Try honey, lemon zest, or fresh dill instead of traditional seasonings to create your signature flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at low heat to avoid drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, make sure the cedar plank is fully soaked before grilling to prevent burning.
- Always use fresh salmon for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip on checking internal temperature; aim for 145°F for perfectly cooked fish.
Memorial Day is always special because it kicks off summer barbecues. I recall my first attempt at grilled salmon—let’s just say my friends politely chewed while trying not to gag on dry fish!
FAQ
What is the best type of salmon for grilling?
Wild-caught salmon like sockeye or king is ideal due to its rich flavor.
Can I use a different wood plank?
Yes, you can try maple or hickory for different subtle flavors.
How long should I soak the cedar plank?
Soak the cedar plank in water for at least one hour before grilling.
Memorial Day Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon
Delight your guests with this succulent grilled cedar plank salmon, infused with rich flavors and a smoky aroma. Perfect for summer gatherings!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 cedar plank (soaked in water for 1 hour)
- 1 lb fresh wild-caught salmon fillet
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried dill weed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C).
- Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill and allow it to heat until it starts crackling.
- On a plate, lay the salmon skin-side down. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Season generously with garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Once the cedar plank is hot, carefully place the seasoned salmon on top.
- Close the lid and grill for 15-20 minutes until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
Notes
- For added flavor, experiment by incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary or a touch of honey for sweetness.
- Ensure the plank is fully soaked to avoid burning during grilling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz salmon (113g)
- Calories: 233
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
