Cedar Plank Garlic Dill Salmon (Print)

Grilled salmon fillets infused with garlic, dill, and lemon on cedar planks. Smoky, vibrant, and fresh for summer gatherings.

# Ingredients:

→ Salmon

01 - 4 skin-on salmon fillets, each 6 ounces

→ Marinade & Seasoning

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped, plus extra for garnish
05 - 1 lemon, zested and juiced
06 - 1 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ For Grilling

08 - 2 untreated food-safe cedar planks, approximately 12 x 6 inches
09 - Fresh lemon slices, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Submerge cedar planks in cold water for at least 1 hour and up to 2 hours, placing a weight on top to ensure full immersion.
02 - Combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
03 - Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with marinade, reserving a portion for basting during grilling.
04 - Preheat outdoor grill to medium-high (400°F). Place soaked cedar planks on grill grates, close lid, and heat for 2 minutes until they begin to smoke and crackle.
05 - Arrange salmon fillets, skin-side down, on cedar planks. Close lid and grill for 12–15 minutes, basting once with reserved marinade, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
06 - Remove salmon from grill, garnish with fresh dill and lemon slices, and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The cedar plank does all the heavy lifting, infusing smoky flavor without messing up your grill.
  • If you want juicy salmon that tastes bright and herbal, this is the easiest upgrade for weeknight dinners or backyard feasts.
02 -
  • It’s crucial to soak the planks long enough—if you rush it, the wood can catch fire and ruin your dinner.
  • Basting halfway through keeps the salmon extra moist and doubles down on those fresh herbal flavors.
03 -
  • If you want extra smoky depth, let the planks smolder under the grill lid for a minute before adding the salmon.
  • Swap salmon for trout or Arctic char when you want to surprise your guests—both take to cedar grilling beautifully.
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