Cedar Planked Salmon: A Guide to Grilling Perfection

Cedar planked salmon is a culinary delight that combines the rich, flavorful taste of salmon with the smoky, aromatic essence of cedar. This cooking method not only imparts a unique flavor profile but also helps to keep the salmon moist and tender, preventing it from drying out on the grill. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, cedar planked salmon is surprisingly easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create the perfect cedar planked salmon, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the grilling technique.

## What is Cedar Planked Salmon?

Cedar planked salmon is a method of grilling salmon on a cedar plank, which infuses the fish with a distinct smoky, woody flavor. The plank acts as a barrier between the salmon and the direct heat of the grill, creating a moist, oven-like environment that gently cooks the fish. This slow cooking process allows the salmon to absorb the cedar flavor, resulting in a delicious and aromatic dish.

## Why Cook Salmon on a Cedar Plank?

There are several compelling reasons to cook salmon on a cedar plank:

* **Flavor:** The cedar plank imparts a unique smoky, woody flavor that complements the richness of the salmon.
* **Moisture:** The plank creates a moist cooking environment, preventing the salmon from drying out.
* **Tenderness:** Slow cooking on the plank results in tender, flaky salmon.
* **Presentation:** Cedar planked salmon makes for a beautiful and impressive presentation.
* **Ease:** It’s a relatively simple and straightforward cooking method.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

To make cedar planked salmon, you’ll need the following ingredients:

* **Salmon Fillet:** Choose a high-quality salmon fillet, preferably skin-on. A 1.5-2 pound fillet is ideal for serving 4-6 people.
* **Cedar Plank:** You can find cedar planks specifically designed for grilling at most grocery stores, hardware stores, and online retailers. Ensure the plank is food-grade and untreated.
* **Olive Oil:** Extra virgin olive oil is perfect for brushing the salmon and the cedar plank.
* **Lemon:** Fresh lemon slices or juice add a bright, citrusy flavor.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Dill, thyme, rosemary, or parsley are excellent choices for enhancing the flavor of the salmon.
* **Garlic:** Minced garlic adds a savory depth to the dish.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Season the salmon to taste.
* **Optional Ingredients:** Other ingredients you might consider include maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, or your favorite spice blend.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Grill:** A gas grill or charcoal grill will work. You can even use an oven, although the smoky flavor will be less pronounced.
* **Cedar Plank:** As mentioned above, a food-grade cedar plank is essential.
* **Basting Brush:** For brushing the salmon and plank with olive oil.
* **Tongs:** For handling the salmon and plank on the grill.
* **Aluminum Foil (Optional):** For covering the plank to prevent burning.
* **Spray Bottle with Water:** To extinguish any flames that may arise.
* **Thermometer:** To check the internal temperature of the salmon.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect cedar planked salmon:

### Step 1: Soak the Cedar Plank

This is arguably the most crucial step in the entire process. Soaking the cedar plank prevents it from catching fire on the grill and allows it to release its smoky flavor as it heats up.

1. **Submerge the Plank:** Place the cedar plank in a large container or sink filled with water. Ensure the plank is completely submerged.
2. **Weigh it Down:** Use a heavy object, such as a plate or a brick, to weigh the plank down and keep it submerged. You can also use a large pot filled with water.
3. **Soak for at Least 2 Hours:** Soak the plank for a minimum of 2 hours, but ideally 4 hours or even overnight. The longer the plank soaks, the more moisture it will absorb, reducing the risk of burning.

*Tip: For added flavor, you can soak the plank in a mixture of water and wine, beer, apple cider, or even juice.*

### Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

While the plank is soaking, prepare the salmon fillet.

1. **Pat the Salmon Dry:** Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillet dry. This will help the salmon to brown properly on the grill.
2. **Remove Pin Bones (Optional):** Run your fingers along the surface of the salmon to check for any pin bones. Use tweezers or pliers to remove them.
3. **Season the Salmon:** In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice (optional), fresh herbs (dill, thyme, rosemary, or parsley), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. **Marinate the Salmon:** Brush the salmon fillet with the herb mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. You can also place the salmon in a resealable bag or container and pour the marinade over it. Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

### Step 3: Prepare the Grill

While the salmon is marinating, prepare your grill.

1. **Preheat the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals on one side of the grill to create a direct heat zone and an indirect heat zone.
2. **Clean the Grill Grates:** Use a grill brush to clean the grill grates thoroughly. This will prevent the salmon from sticking to the grates.

### Step 4: Prepare the Cedar Plank for Grilling

Before placing the salmon on the plank, prepare the plank for grilling.

1. **Remove the Plank from the Water:** Remove the cedar plank from the water and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. **Oil the Plank:** Brush one side of the cedar plank with olive oil. This will help prevent the salmon from sticking to the plank.

### Step 5: Grill the Salmon

Now it’s time to grill the salmon on the cedar plank.

1. **Place the Plank on the Grill:** Place the oiled side of the cedar plank directly on the grill grates, over medium heat. If using a gas grill, close the lid. If using a charcoal grill, position the plank over the indirect heat zone.
2. **Heat the Plank:** Let the plank heat up for about 5-10 minutes, or until you start to hear it crackle and smell the cedar aroma. You may see some smoke – this is normal.
3. **Place the Salmon on the Plank:** Carefully place the salmon fillet, skin-side down (if applicable), on the cedar plank. Ensure the salmon is centered on the plank.
4. **Close the Grill Lid:** Close the grill lid and let the salmon cook for 15-25 minutes, or until it’s cooked through. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the salmon fillet and the temperature of your grill.
5. **Monitor the Plank:** Keep a close eye on the cedar plank while the salmon is grilling. If the plank starts to catch fire, use a spray bottle filled with water to extinguish the flames. You can also cover the plank loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.
6. **Check the Internal Temperature:** Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. The salmon is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque and easily flake with a fork.

### Step 6: Remove and Serve

Once the salmon is cooked through, carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using tongs or heat-resistant gloves.

1. **Remove the Salmon from the Plank:** Use a spatula to gently remove the salmon fillet from the cedar plank. If the salmon is sticking, you can run a thin spatula between the salmon and the plank to release it.
2. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the cedar planked salmon immediately. You can garnish it with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil.

## Tips for Perfect Cedar Planked Salmon

Here are some tips to help you achieve grilling perfection:

* **Choose High-Quality Salmon:** Opt for wild-caught salmon whenever possible, as it tends to be more flavorful and sustainable. Look for salmon that is firm, moist, and has a vibrant color.
* **Soak the Plank Thoroughly:** Don’t skimp on the soaking time. The longer the plank soaks, the less likely it is to burn.
* **Control the Heat:** Maintaining a consistent medium heat is crucial for even cooking and preventing the plank from catching fire.
* **Don’t Overcook the Salmon:** Overcooked salmon is dry and tough. Use a thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
* **Use a Spray Bottle:** Keep a spray bottle filled with water nearby to extinguish any flames that may arise.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different marinades, herbs, and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
* **Consider the Wood Type:** While cedar is the most common wood used for planking salmon, you can also use other types of wood, such as alder, maple, or hickory, for different flavor profiles. Keep in mind that different woods require different soaking times and grilling temperatures.
* **Reuse the Plank (Carefully):** You can reuse a cedar plank a few times, but it’s essential to clean it thoroughly after each use. Use a stiff brush and hot, soapy water to remove any food residue. Rinse well and let the plank dry completely before storing it. Discard the plank if it’s charred, cracked, or has a burnt smell.

## Variations and Flavor Combinations

Cedar planked salmon is incredibly versatile, and there are endless ways to customize it to your liking. Here are a few variations and flavor combinations to inspire you:

* **Maple Glazed Salmon:** Brush the salmon with a mixture of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.
* **Lemon-Dill Salmon:** Combine lemon juice, fresh dill, garlic, and olive oil for a classic and refreshing flavor combination.
* **Spicy Salmon:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to your marinade for a spicy kick.
* **Teriyaki Salmon:** Use teriyaki sauce as a marinade for a delicious Asian-inspired dish.
* **Brown Sugar Salmon:** Combine brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a sweet and savory glaze.
* **Mediterranean Salmon:** Marinate the salmon in olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

## Serving Suggestions

Cedar planked salmon is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Grilled Vegetables:** Grilled asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions are excellent accompaniments to cedar planked salmon.
* **Roasted Potatoes:** Roasted potatoes with herbs and garlic are a hearty and flavorful side dish.
* **Quinoa Salad:** A light and refreshing quinoa salad with vegetables and herbs complements the richness of the salmon.
* **Rice Pilaf:** A classic rice pilaf with herbs and spices is a versatile side dish that pairs well with salmon.
* **Green Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing and healthy option.
* **Creamy Polenta:** Creamy polenta is a comforting and flavorful side dish that complements the smoky flavor of the salmon.

## Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover cedar planked salmon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.

*To reheat, gently warm the salmon in the oven or microwave. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.* You can also flake the leftover salmon and use it in salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes.

## Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse packed with health benefits. Here are a few of the reasons why you should include salmon in your diet:

* **Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids:** Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation.
* **High in Protein:** Salmon is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as supporting healthy metabolism.
* **Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals:** Salmon is a good source of vitamins B12, D, and selenium, as well as other essential minerals.
* **Supports Heart Health:** Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon can help lower blood pressure, reduce triglycerides, and prevent blood clots, all of which contribute to a healthy heart.
* **Boosts Brain Function:** Omega-3 fatty acids are also crucial for brain health and cognitive function. Studies have shown that consuming salmon can improve memory, focus, and overall brain performance.
* **Reduces Inflammation:** Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.

## Conclusion

Cedar planked salmon is a delicious and impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can create the perfect cedar planked salmon every time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a healthy and flavorful meal, cedar planked salmon is sure to be a hit. So, fire up your grill, soak your cedar plank, and get ready to enjoy a culinary masterpiece! Happy grilling!