cedar board salmon recipe
The Best cedar board salmon recipe
I’ve used this recipe for everything from casual weeknight dinners to bigger gatherings like family barbecues or even holiday meals. The cedar adds a nice touch that feels celebratory, even if it’s just a simple family meal. My husband and kids both swear by it—they’ll eat it every time, and it’s always a hit with guests. Plus, the cedar plank makes for easy cleanup, and the fish looks impressive without being complicated. It’s a recipe that’s as practical as it is tasty, and that’s why I keep it in my rotation. There’s something comforting about a meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying, and this one delivers on both fronts.
Cedar-Plank Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce
A flavorful salmon dish baked on a cedar plank, complemented by a bright lemon-dill sauce. Perfect for a healthy yet indulgent meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cedar plank (about 12 inches long)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Soak the cedar plank in warm water for 10 minutes to prevent burning. -
2
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet with olive oil, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place fillets on the soaked cedar plank. -
3
Place the baking sheet with salmon on the middle rack of the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork. -
4
While salmon bakes, prepare the lemon-dill sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. -
5
Once salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle the lemon-dill sauce over the salmon before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Cedar plank
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl for sauce
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate salmon in the spices and honey for 30 minutes before baking.
- Use fresh herbs for the best taste. If unavailable, use dried herbs, reducing the amount by half.
- You can serve this with quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Substitutions: {“cedar plank”:”Use a non-reactive baking tray if cedar plank is unavailable.”}
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar-Plank Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce
What is the best way to prepare cedar-plank salmon for cooking?
The best way to prepare cedar-plank salmon is to first clean and pat the salmon fillets dry. Place them on the cedar plank, skin-side down, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Lightly brush the salmon with a neutral oil (like olive or avocado oil) and season with salt and pepper. For a smoky flavor, you can also sprinkle with smoked paprika or a light dusting of garlic powder. Place the plank in a preheated oven (375°F/190°C) and bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How long does cedar-plank salmon typically take to cook?
Cedar-plank salmon usually takes 12–15 minutes for medium-thick fillets (about 1–1.5 inches thick) at 375°F (190°C). For thicker cuts, increase time by 2–3 minutes per side. If using a grill, cook over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side, basting occasionally with butter or a citrus glaze. Avoid overcooking, as salmon can dry out quickly.
What are the best ingredients to pair with cedar-plank salmon?
Cedar-plank salmon pairs beautifully with:
– Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or tarragon) in a lemon butter sauce.
– Roasted or sautéed vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts).
– Simple sides like quinoa, wild rice, or crusty bread with a drizzle of olive oil.
– A bright, tangy sauce like a citrus-mustard glaze (mix Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, and a splash of apple cider vinegar).
– Grilled or steamed fish (like trout or white fish) for a balanced meal.
Can I use a cedar plank on a grill instead of an oven?
Yes! Cedar planks work great on a grill for a smoky, charred flavor. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F/190–200°C) and place the plank on the hot surface for 5–10 minutes to warm it. Place the salmon on the plank, skin-side down, and cook for 6–8 minutes per side, basting with butter or a citrus mixture halfway through. Avoid high heat to prevent burning the plank. For best results, use a plank designed for grilling.
How do I know when cedar-plank salmon is cooked properly?
Cedar-plank salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. To check doneness:
– Visual cue: The flesh should be opaque and slightly translucent in the center.
– Touch test: Press gently—it should feel firm but not rubbery.
– Fork test: If it breaks apart easily, it’s ready.
– Overcooking sign: If it turns too dry or loses its pink hue, pull it off the heat immediately.
