Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon: A Recipe for Flavorful Delight

 Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon: A Recipe for Flavorful Delight

Introduction

Cedar plank salmon is a culinary masterpiece that combines the rich flavors of salmon with the aromatic essence of cedar wood. This classic method of grilling salmon has been enjoyed for generations, and it continues to be a favorite for both seasoned grill masters and novice cooks. In this article, we will explore the art of preparing cedar plank salmon, step by step, to create a dish that's not only delicious but also visually impressive. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

For this cedar plank salmon recipe, you will need:

• 2 pounds of fresh salmon fillets
• 1 untreated cedar plank (preferably food-grade)
• 2 lemons
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of fresh dill (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Step 1: Soak the Cedar Plank

Before you start, soak the untreated cedar plank in water for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight. This is crucial to prevent the wood from catching fire on the grill and to ensure it imparts a delightful smoky flavor to the salmon.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the juice of one lemon, olive oil, chopped garlic, chopped dill, and parsley. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Mix these ingredients well to create a flavorful marinade for the salmon.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). If you're using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are white-hot and evenly distributed.

Step 4: Prepare the Salmon

While the grill is heating, place the salmon fillets on a clean surface, skin-side down. Squeeze the juice of the second lemon over the fillets, and season them with a bit of salt and pepper. Then, generously brush the marinade onto the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 5: Place Salmon on the Cedar Plank

Remove the cedar plank from the water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Place the marinated salmon fillets, skin-side down, onto the cedar plank. The wet wood and the salmon's natural oils will prevent sticking and help infuse the salmon with cedar-smoked goodness.

Step 6: Grill the Salmon

Carefully place the cedar plank with the salmon onto the preheated grill grates. Close the grill lid and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on the grill temperature to maintain it within the desired range.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cedar plank salmon is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Conclusion

Grilled cedar plank salmon is a showstopper dish that not only tastes divine but also fills the air with an enticing smoky aroma. This recipe is a testament to the harmony of flavors that can be achieved with simple, high-quality ingredients and a dash of culinary finesse. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, cedar plank salmon is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, fire up the grill, follow these steps, and savor the delectable flavors of this classic dish that is as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve.