Sun-Dried Tomato & Cedar Plank Salmon: A Flavorful Grilling Masterpiece

Cedar plank salmon is a grilling technique that imparts a smoky, subtle cedar flavor to the fish, creating a truly memorable culinary experience. When paired with the intense, savory flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, the result is an absolutely irresistible dish. This recipe for Sun-Dried Tomato Cedar Plank Salmon elevates the simple act of grilling into a gourmet delight. It’s perfect for a summer barbecue, a special occasion, or simply a weeknight meal that feels extraordinary.

This article will guide you through each step of preparing this delicious salmon, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the grilling process. We’ll cover everything you need to know to achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon every time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this stunning cedar plank salmon recipe!

Why Cedar Plank Salmon?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore why cedar planking is such a popular and effective method for cooking salmon.

* **Flavor Infusion:** The primary reason for using a cedar plank is the flavor it imparts. As the plank heats up, it releases aromatic compounds that infuse the salmon with a delicate, smoky cedar essence. This subtle flavor complements the richness of the salmon beautifully.
* **Moisture Retention:** The cedar plank acts as a barrier between the direct heat of the grill and the salmon, helping to retain moisture. This results in a more tender and flaky final product, preventing the salmon from drying out.
* **Presentation:** Serving salmon on a cedar plank is visually appealing. It adds a rustic and elegant touch to your meal, making it perfect for entertaining.
* **Ease of Cooking:** Cedar planking is relatively easy to master. It’s a forgiving method that reduces the risk of burning or overcooking the salmon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this Sun-Dried Tomato Cedar Plank Salmon, you’ll need the following ingredients:

* **Salmon Fillet:** 1.5-2 pounds, skin on or off (skin on is generally preferred for plank grilling as it protects the flesh)
* **Cedar Plank:** 1 large cedar plank (approximately 12-15 inches long)
* **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** 1/2 cup, oil-packed, drained and chopped
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves, minced
* **Fresh Basil:** 1/4 cup, chopped
* **Fresh Oregano:** 2 tablespoons, chopped
* **Lemon:** 1, juiced and zested
* **Olive Oil:** 3 tablespoons
* **Salt:** To taste
* **Black Pepper:** To taste
* **Red Pepper Flakes (optional):** 1/4 teaspoon, for a touch of heat
* **Optional Garnish:** Fresh parsley, lemon wedges

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

* **Salmon:** Look for high-quality salmon fillets. Sockeye, King, or Coho salmon are all excellent choices. If using frozen salmon, thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
* **Cedar Plank:** Purchase food-grade cedar planks specifically designed for grilling. These are typically available at most grocery stores, hardware stores, or online retailers. Ensure the plank is untreated and free of any chemicals.
* **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes offer the best flavor and texture. If using dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water for about 30 minutes before chopping.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Fresh basil and oregano are essential for the vibrant flavor of this dish. If fresh herbs are unavailable, you can substitute dried herbs, but use half the amount (e.g., 1/8 cup dried basil instead of 1/4 cup fresh basil).
* **Lemon:** Fresh lemon juice and zest provide brightness and acidity. Lime can be used as a substitute if needed.
* **Olive Oil:** Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking, or omit them altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Grill:** Gas grill or charcoal grill
* **Cedar Plank:** As mentioned above
* **Large Bowl:** For mixing the sun-dried tomato mixture
* **Small Bowl:** For the lemon juice and zest
* **Cutting Board:** For chopping ingredients
* **Knife:** Sharp knife for chopping
* **Tongs:** For handling the salmon
* **Spatula:** Optional, for lifting the salmon from the plank
* **Basting Brush (optional):** For applying extra marinade

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions for preparing this delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Cedar Plank Salmon.

Step 1: Soak the Cedar Plank

Soaking the cedar plank is crucial to prevent it from catching fire on the grill. It also helps to release moisture and flavor during cooking.

1. **Submerge the plank:** Place the cedar plank in a large container or sink filled with water. You can use a heavy object, such as a plate or pot, to weigh it down and ensure it’s fully submerged.
2. **Soak for at least 2 hours:** Ideally, soak the plank for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, for maximum moisture absorption. The longer the plank soaks, the less likely it is to burn.
3. **Optional: Add flavor to the soaking water:** For an extra layer of flavor, you can add wine, beer, or broth to the soaking water. This will infuse the plank with a subtle aroma that will transfer to the salmon.

Step 2: Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomato Mixture

The sun-dried tomato mixture is the heart of this recipe. It provides intense flavor and adds moisture to the salmon.

1. **Combine ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, chopped oregano, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. **Mix well:** Stir all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. The mixture should be slightly moist and fragrant.
3. **Taste and adjust:** Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon

Preparing the salmon properly ensures even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.

1. **Pat the salmon dry:** Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillet dry. This will help the sun-dried tomato mixture adhere better to the surface.
2. **Season the salmon:** Lightly season the salmon with salt and pepper.
3. **Apply the sun-dried tomato mixture:** Spread the sun-dried tomato mixture evenly over the top of the salmon fillet. Use your fingers or a spoon to ensure the mixture is well distributed.
4. **Optional: Marinate:** For even more intense flavor, you can cover the salmon and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to 1 hour before grilling. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Grill

Properly preparing the grill is essential for successful cedar plank grilling.

1. **Preheat the grill:** Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C). If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals so that there is a medium heat zone.
2. **Oil the grill grates:** Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the plank from sticking. You can use cooking spray or a brush to apply the oil.

Step 5: Grill the Salmon

Grilling the salmon on the cedar plank is the final step in creating this delicious dish.

1. **Place the plank on the grill:** Place the soaked cedar plank directly on the preheated grill grates.
2. **Close the grill lid:** Close the grill lid and let the plank heat up for about 5-10 minutes. You should start to smell the cedar aroma as the plank heats up.
3. **Place the salmon on the plank:** Carefully place the salmon fillet, skin side down (if using skin-on salmon), on the heated cedar plank.
4. **Close the grill lid:** Close the grill lid and cook the salmon for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet and the temperature of your grill.
5. **Check for doneness:** To check for doneness, insert a fork into the thickest part of the salmon. If the salmon flakes easily, it is cooked through. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. It should reach 145°F (63°C).
6. **Monitor the plank:** Keep a close eye on the cedar plank while the salmon is cooking. If the plank starts to catch fire, use a spray bottle filled with water to extinguish the flames. You can also move the plank to a cooler part of the grill.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the salmon is cooked through, it’s time to serve and enjoy!

1. **Remove from the grill:** Carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using tongs or oven mitts.
2. **Let rest:** Let the salmon rest on the plank for a few minutes before serving.
3. **Garnish (optional):** Garnish the salmon with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
4. **Serve:** Serve the salmon directly on the cedar plank for a beautiful presentation. You can also use a spatula to lift the salmon from the plank and serve it on individual plates.
5. **Enjoy:** Enjoy your delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Cedar Plank Salmon with your favorite side dishes. See suggestions below.

Tips for Perfect Cedar Plank Salmon

* **Soak the plank thoroughly:** Don’t skip the soaking step! A well-soaked plank is less likely to burn and will impart more flavor to the salmon.
* **Use high-quality salmon:** The quality of the salmon will significantly impact the final flavor of the dish. Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best results.
* **Don’t overcook the salmon:** Overcooked salmon is dry and tough. Cook the salmon until it is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
* **Monitor the plank closely:** Keep a close eye on the cedar plank while the salmon is cooking to prevent it from catching fire.
* **Experiment with flavors:** Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and marinades to create your own unique cedar plank salmon recipe.
* **Use a meat thermometer:** A meat thermometer is a reliable way to ensure that the salmon is cooked to the perfect internal temperature.
* **Consider indirect heat:** If you’re using a charcoal grill, consider cooking the salmon over indirect heat to prevent the plank from burning too quickly.
* **Reuse the plank (sometimes):** You can reuse a cedar plank a few times, but it’s best to discard it after 2-3 uses, or if it becomes excessively charred.

Serving Suggestions

Sun-Dried Tomato Cedar Plank Salmon pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Grilled Vegetables:** Grilled asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob
* **Roasted Potatoes:** Roasted rosemary potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, or sweet potato fries
* **Quinoa Salad:** Quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese
* **Green Salad:** Simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
* **Rice Pilaf:** Rice pilaf with herbs and lemon zest
* **Pasta Salad:** Cold pasta salad with pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella
* **Crusty Bread:** Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sun-dried tomato sauce.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to customize it to your liking. Here are a few variations you can try:

* **Spicy Salmon:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sun-dried tomato mixture for a spicier kick.
* **Mediterranean Salmon:** Add chopped Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil to the sun-dried tomato mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
* **Citrus Salmon:** Use orange juice and zest instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
* **Maple-Glazed Salmon:** Brush the salmon with a maple-mustard glaze during the last few minutes of grilling for a sweet and savory flavor.
* **Honey-Garlic Salmon:** Use a honey-garlic marinade instead of the sun-dried tomato mixture for a sweeter, garlicky flavor.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Cedar Plank Salmon, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Sun-Dried Tomato Cedar Plank Salmon is a delicious and impressive dish that is surprisingly easy to make. The combination of smoky cedar flavor, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and tender, flaky salmon is simply irresistible. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So, fire up the grill, soak your cedar plank, and get ready to enjoy a culinary masterpiece!

Recipe Card

Here’s a printable recipe card for your convenience:

**Sun-Dried Tomato Cedar Plank Salmon**

**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 20 minutes
**Soaking time:** 2 hours
**Serves:** 4-6

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5-2 pounds Salmon Fillet
* 1 Large Cedar Plank
* 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes
* 4 cloves Garlic
* 1/4 cup Fresh Basil
* 2 tablespoons Fresh Oregano
* 1 Lemon
* 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* Red Pepper Flakes (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 2 hours.
2. Combine sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil, oregano, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
3. Pat the salmon dry and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the sun-dried tomato mixture over the salmon.
5. Preheat grill to medium heat.
6. Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill and heat for 5-10 minutes.
7. Place the salmon on the plank and close the grill lid.
8. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily.
9. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes.
10. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges. Serve and enjoy!

Enjoy your perfectly grilled Sun-Dried Tomato Cedar Plank Salmon!