Cedar Plank Salmon Lemon Dill

Cedar Plank Salmon with Lemon Dill is a beautifully aromatic salmon fillet grilled over a cedar plank, infused with fresh lemon and dill for a summery, smoky flavor. This dish combines simplicity and elegance, delivering a fresh, flavorful seafood experience that’s perfect for warm-weather dinners or special occasions.

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This recipe highlights the harmony between the natural cedar smoke and the bright herbal notes from fresh dill and lemon zest—creating a memorable dining experience with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 (6-ounce) skin-on salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 untreated cedar plank (about 12 x 6 inches), soaked in water for at least 1 hour
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Soak the cedar plank

Soak the cedar plank in cold water for at least 1 hour, placing a weight on top if needed to keep it submerged.

2. Prepare the marinade

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

3. Marinate the salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with the marinade. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.

4. Preheat the grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C).

5. Heat the cedar plank

Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill. Close the lid and heat for 3 minutes, until it begins to crackle and smoke.

6. Arrange salmon and lemon

Carefully arrange lemon slices on the plank, then place salmon fillets (skin side down) on top of the lemons.

7. Grill the salmon

Close the grill lid and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

8. Rest and serve

Remove the plank from the grill. Rest salmon for 2 minutes, garnish with fresh dill, and serve.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To enhance the flavor, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of honey to the marinade. Keep an eye on the plank as it heats to avoid excessive charring, and always rest the salmon briefly before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe can be adapted by swapping dill for fresh thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note. You can also explore using other citrus fruits such as lime or orange slices on the plank for a unique twist. For a spicier touch, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this cedar plank salmon alongside a crisp green salad, grilled vegetables, or fluffy rice pilaf. Pair it with chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir to complement the fresh, bright flavors of the dish.

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This Cedar Plank Salmon with Lemon Dill offers an easy yet impressive way to enjoy fresh seafood with layered smoky, citrusy, and herbal flavors. Ideal for those seeking a healthy and vibrant main dish with minimal fuss, it’s sure to become a summer favorite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Why soak the cedar plank before grilling?

Soaking the cedar plank prevents it from catching fire and helps produce fragrant smoke that flavors the salmon gently.

→ Can I use other herbs instead of dill?

Yes, herbs like parsley, thyme, or tarragon can be substituted to vary the flavor profile while complementing the citrus.

→ What grill settings are best for this cooking method?

A medium-high heat around 400°F (200°C) ensures the salmon cooks evenly without burning the plank or fish.

→ How do lemon slices affect the salmon during grilling?

Placing lemon slices under the salmon adds bright citrus notes and helps keep the fish moist and aromatic.

→ Can this method be used with other types of fish?

Absolutely, firm fish like trout or steelhead also work well with cedar plank grilling and similar marinades.