Cedar Plank Salmon Lemon Dill

Experience the magic of summer cookouts with this Cedar Plank Salmon with Lemon Dill. Grilling a salmon fillet over a soaking cedar plank infuses the fish with a delicate smoky aroma, perfectly complemented by the fresh brightness of lemon and the herbaceous touch of dill. This dish is as visually stunning as it is flavorful, creating a memorable meal that's both easy to prepare and elegant to serve.

Save

Using a cedar plank is a classic grilling technique that elevates the salmon to new levels of texture and flavor. The subtle smoke mingles with the bright citrus and earthy dill, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is refreshing. Whether for a casual family dinner or an impressive weekend gathering, this recipe brings sophistication without fuss.

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

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

3. 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 to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C).

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

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

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

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

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Ensure the cedar plank is fully soaked to prevent it from burning too quickly and to allow slow aromatic smoke release. Letting the salmon rest after cooking helps juices redistribute for moist, tender bites. Brushing the fillets generously with marinade enhances the lemon-dill flavor and keeps the fish moist on the grill.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a sweeter twist, try drizzling honey or maple syrup over the salmon before grilling. A sprinkle of smoked paprika adds a deeper smoky note. To make this dish spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Serviervorschläge

Serve your cedar plank salmon alongside chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir for an ideal pairing. Accompany with simple sides such as grilled asparagus, fresh summer salad, or roasted baby potatoes. Garnish with extra lemon wedges for an added burst of zest.

Save

This Cedar Plank Salmon with Lemon Dill is a surefire way to impress at any summer gathering. Its ease of preparation paired with complex flavors will make it a perennial favorite. Whether you’re an experienced griller or trying something new, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between delicious and doable.

Recipe FAQs

→ Why soak the cedar plank before grilling?

Soaking prevents the plank from burning too quickly, allowing it to smolder and infuse the salmon with delicate smoky flavor.

→ Can I use other herbs besides dill?

Yes, fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon can complement the citrus and fish nicely for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

Cook until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout, typically 15–20 minutes on medium-high heat.

→ Is it necessary to use skin-on salmon fillets?

Skin-on fillets help hold the fish together during grilling and provide extra moisture, but skinless can work if handled carefully.

→ Can I add extra flavor to the marinade?

Adding smoked paprika or a drizzle of honey can enhance the taste with subtle sweetness and smokiness.