Deliciously Bold Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe for Perfect Grilled Flavor
Imagine enjoying a moist, smoky piece of salmon. Its flavors are enhanced by the subtle aroma of cedar. My brother made this dish for me in Seattle, and it’s a culinary highlight of my life.
Cooking salmon on a cedar plank is easy yet impressive. It makes a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
In this article, we’ll show you how to cook Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe perfectly. Your next meal will be unforgettable and delicious.
What You Need for Cedar Plank Salmon
Before you start cooking cedar plank salmon, make sure you have all the ingredients and tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
To make delicious cedar plank salmon, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 (12 inch) untreated cedar planks
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1½ tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 (2 pound) salmon fillets, skin removed
These ingredients will give the salmon a rich, savory flavor and a hint of Asian-inspired seasonings.
Equipment and Tools Required
You’ll need some basic equipment to cook your cedar plank salmon. You can choose to cook it either on a grill or in an oven. If you decide to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. For oven baking, preheat to 400°F (200°C). You’ll also need a baking sheet or grill grates to hold the cedar planks.
Ensuring you have all the necessary equipment and ingredients before you start will help you achieve a perfectly cooked cedar plank salmon.
Choosing the Right Cedar Plank
To make the perfect cedar plank salmon, picking the right plank is key. The plank’s type greatly impacts the dish’s flavor and overall taste.
Types of Cedar Planks
Western red cedar is the top pick for cooking salmon. It’s known for its strong aroma and lasting quality. Other cedar types might not taste as good, so stick with Western red for the best flavor.
Think about your salmon fillets’ size when picking a plank. You need a plank big enough to hold your fish well. Planks come in different sizes, so pick one that matches your needs.
Sourcing Your Cedar Plank
You can find cedar planks at most large supermarkets, near the seafood section. They’re also available online or at specialty kitchen supply stores. Make sure it’s made for cooking to ensure it’s safe for grilling or baking.
| Source | Availability | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Large Supermarkets | Near seafood department | Convenient, immediate purchase |
| Online Retailers | 24/7 availability | Wide selection, delivered to your door |
| Kitchen Supply Stores | Specialty stores | Expert advice, high-quality products |
By picking the right cedar plank and getting it from a trusted source, you’re set to make a tasty cedar plank salmon. It will surely wow your family and friends.
Preparing the Salmon
To make a delicious cedar plank salmon dish, start with fresh salmon fillets. Find the best ones at your local market.
Selecting Fresh Salmon
Choose salmon with a bright color and firm texture. It should smell mild, not fishy. Wild-caught salmon tastes better and feels nicer to eat.
Tips for Selecting Salmon:
- Check the color: It should be vibrant and even.
- Touch test: Fresh salmon should be firm to the touch.
- Smell test: Fresh salmon has a mild, oceanic smell.
Marinades and Seasonings
After picking your salmon, marinate it. A good marinade makes your grilled salmon on plank cedar taste amazing. You can mix different ingredients to create your flavor.
A tasty marinade has soy sauce, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add green onions, ginger, and garlic for extra flavor. This mix is savory and a bit sweet.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Soy Sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Vegetable Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Rice Vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| Sesame Oil | 1 tsp |
| Green Onions | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Ginger | 1 tsp, minced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
Mix all the ingredients and pour the marinade over your salmon. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors soak into the fish.
Soaking the Cedar Plank
To ensure a safe and flavorful grilling experience, soaking your cedar plank is essential. Soaking the cedar plank prevents it from catching fire on the grill. It also adds moisture to the salmon, making it taste better and feel softer.
Why Soaking is Important
Soaking the cedar plank is important for two reasons. It stops the plank from catching fire while grilling. It also makes the salmon moist and flavorful.
When the plank is soaked, it releases steam. This steam keeps the salmon moist. It also infuses the salmon with the cedar’s aromatic flavor.
How Long to Soak the Plank
You should soak the cedar planks in water for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours. The longer you soak the plank, the more flavorful your dish will be. Here’s a simple guideline to follow:
| Soaking Time | Benefits |
|---|---|
| 1 hour | Minimum soaking time; prevents immediate ignition on the grill. |
| 4-8 hours | Ideal soaking time; enhances flavor and moisture. |
| Up to 24 hours | Maximum soaking time; maximizes moisture and flavor infusion. |
Tip: Make sure the plank is fully submerged in water. You can weigh it down with a heavy object if necessary.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to achieve a deliciously grilled cedar plank salmon. It will be safe to cook and full of flavor.
Cooking Methods for Cedar Plank Salmon
Cedar plank salmon is great for grilling or baking. It’s versatile and can be cooked perfectly with either method.
Grilling Your Salmon
Grilling cedar plank salmon gives it a smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the cedar plank on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
Tips for Grilling: Make sure the grill is hot to avoid sticking. Keep an eye on the salmon to prevent overcooking.
Baking in the Oven
Baking cedar plank salmon is a controlled way to cook. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the cedar plank on a baking sheet and bake for 15-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
Benefits of Baking: Baking keeps the salmon moist. It’s also healthier because it uses less oil.
Both grilling and baking have their own benefits. Your choice depends on what you like and what you have available.
Monitoring the Cooking Process
To make sure your cedar plank salmon is delicious, watch it closely while it cooks. This way, your salmon will be perfectly cooked, keeping its flavor and moisture.
Ideal early Internal Temperature
The best internal temperature for salmon is between 125°F to 140°F. A meat thermometer is the best tool to check if it’s done. It’s important not to overcook the salmon, as it can get dry and tough.
| Cooking Method | Internal Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Grilling | 125°F – 140°F | 10-15 minutes |
| Baking | 125°F – 140°F | 12-18 minutes |
Flipping vs. Not Flipping
When cooking cedar plank salmon, you don’t need to flip it. The cedar plank protects the salmon from direct heat, cooking it evenly. This method keeps the salmon’s natural flavors and moisture.
At first glance, cooking might seem simple. But, the details are what matter. It’s all about cooking the salmon to the right temperature without overdoing it.
Serving Suggestions
After your cedar plank salmon is cooked, it’s time to think about serving it. The right side dishes and presentation can make your meal unforgettable.
Side Dishes that Pair Well
Cedar plank salmon goes great with many side dishes. Try it with sautéed zucchini and cherry tomatoes or a hearty ratatouille with focaccia. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple quinoa salad.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Sautéed Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes | A light and flavorful option that complements the smoky salmon. |
| Ratatouille with Focaccia | A Mediterranean-inspired dish that adds a rustic touch to your meal. |
| Roasted Vegetables | A colorful mix of roasted vegetables that pairs well with the rich flavor of salmon. |
Presentation Tips
Presentation is key to making your dish look good. Garnish your cedar plank salmon with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon. Serving it on the cedar plank adds a rustic, outdoorsy feel.
Storing Leftovers Safely
Proper storage of leftover cedar plank salmon is key for food safety. Grilling salmon on a cedar plank brings out amazing flavors. It also leaves you with a lot of leftovers. It’s important to keep these leftovers safe to eat.
How to Store Cooked Salmon
To store cooked salmon, put it in an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you won’t eat it in 3 days, freeze it. Frozen cooked salmon can last for months.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Several months |
Reheating Tips
Reheat your cedar plank salmon in the oven to keep it moist and flavorful. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Put the salmon on a baking sheet with parchment paper and heat until warm. This way, the salmon won’t dry out.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your cedar plank salmon leftovers safely and deliciously. Always check the salmon for any signs of spoilage before eating it, even if it’s within the storage time.
Tips for Perfecting Your Cedar Plank Salmon
Cooking cedar plank salmon to perfection takes focus and a few secrets. Make sure to soak the cedar plank well. This prevents it from catching fire when you grill or bake it.
Key Considerations
Don’t overcook the salmon. It should stay moist and flavorful. Use a thermometer to check the salmon’s internal temperature. It should be just right.
Exploring Flavor Combinations
Try new marinades and seasonings to make your cedar plank salmon stand out. Mix herbs like thyme and rosemary with citrus or go for Asian flavors like soy sauce and ginger. These combinations will add a unique twist to your dish.
With these tips and a bit of practice, you’ll master the art of cedar plank salmon. Your friends and family will love the delicious, flavorful dish you create.