Cedar Plank Salmon Garlic Dill (Print Version)

Salmon fillets grilled with garlic, dill, and lemon on cedar planks for a smoky, bright seafood meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ Salmon

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

→ Marinade & Seasoning

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus additional 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 - Lemon slices, for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Immerse cedar planks in cold water for at least 1 hour, ensuring full submersion by placing a weight on top.
02 - Combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
03 - Dry salmon fillets thoroughly using paper towels and brush both sides with the marinade, reserving a portion for later basting.
04 - Heat grill to medium-high (400°F). Place soaked cedar planks onto grill grates, close the lid, and heat for 2 minutes until planks begin to smoke and crackle.
05 - Arrange salmon fillets, skin-side down, on cedar planks. Close grill lid and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, basting once with reserved marinade, until fillets are opaque and flake gently with a fork.
06 - Remove salmon from grill. Garnish with fresh dill and lemon slices. Serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The cedar plank adds a smoky aroma that feels seriously fancy, but it’s secretly so simple.
  • It’s quick to prepare, yet tastes as if you spent hours fussing—great for impressing without stress.
02 -
  • I once ignored soaking the planks long enough—resulting in burnt edges and uneven cooking.
  • Discovering that adding lemon slices directly on the plank gave the salmon even more fragrance was a game changer.
03 -
  • Soak the planks longer if your grill runs hot—otherwise, the edges char faster than the fish cooks.
  • A swipe of oil on the plank before the salmon goes down helps prevent sticking and boosts flavor.
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