Cedar Plank Salmon, Garlic And Dill

This recipe was printed in our Summer 2023 Issue #64, in the article Reaching New Heights with Cedar Plank Grilling.

Out of all the cedar planks that are purchased for cooking, one could bet they would be introduced to filets of salmon and generally be right. Not only is salmon the most traditional plank pairing, but it’s incredibly well suited to this particular technique. A firm, fatty fish with flavors that pair perfectly with smoke will always win, but don’t feel limited to just salmon. 

To see success with wood plank cooking, here are a few tips and guidelines to know:

• Always soak the planks in water before using. It’s no secret that dry wood easily catches fire. I like to soak my planks on a rimmed baking sheet by the sink with cups or bowls weighing down the planks to keep them submerged. Shoot for a three- or four-hour soak, but less will be sufficient in a pinch.

• Brush the plank with extra virgin olive oil or melted butter before placing the protein. If cooking vegetables, toss them in extra virgin olive oil or melted butter before arranging them in one even layer on the plank.

• Cook over indirect heat. If using charcoal, move coals to the opposite side of the planks. If your grill is gas, use the plank on the un-lit section.

• Try lightly charring the planks before use for added flavor. Like anything, practice makes perfect, so give these recipes a try and prepare to be wowed.

Cedar Plank Salmon, Garlic And Dill

Recipe by Kevin O'Connor
Course Main Course
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • Cedar plank, soaked
  • 4 6- to 8-ounce filets fresh salmon, skin removed
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 lemons, for zest and juice
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat grill or oven to about 400 degrees F. Ensure cedar planks have been soaked. In large glass baking dish, mix olive oil, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon zest, and salt together until combined. Add in salmon filets and toss well to coat salmon evenly. Allow salmon to marinate while grill heats.
  • Place marinated salmon on soaked planks, skin side down. Transfer planks of salmon to grill and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until done to your liking. Remove from grill and squeeze remaining zested lemons over fish just before serving.