Grilling salmon on a wood plank is the most surefire (and tasty!) method. Serve it with vegetable sides like Roasted Broccolini and Garlic Butter Potatoes for supper, or use this approach to prepare salmon throughout the week to use in salads like our BLT Salmon Salad or grain bowls like our Spicy Salmon Bowl.
We prefer grilling salmon over a cedar plank not just because it keeps the fish from adhering to the grill, but also because it gives a delicate, smoky taste to the salmon. Who says you have to purchase a smoker?
While the planks soak, season the salmon with brown sugar, salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. The rub spices the fish while also drawing moisture out of the meat, resulting in a harder texture. Of course, you may season the salmon with any rub you choose, or you can skip the step completely and season with salt and pepper shortly before cooking. For this recipe, feel free to use any of your favorite grilling spice rubs.
Another significant advantage of choosing a cedar plank? It's not necessary to turn the salmon while it's cooking. In around 20 minutes, the fish is cooked slowly and evenly.
Plank Salmon recipe
Prep Time10 minsCook Time110 minsTotal Time120 mins
- Place the cedar planks on a rimmed baking sheet, cover with water, and soak for 2 hours.
- Meanwhile, mix the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 tablespoon salt, and 14 teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl.
- Place each fillet on a small rimmed baking sheet or dish and coat with the dry rub. Refrigerate for 2 hours, or up to overnight, uncovered.
- Preheat the grill for 5 minutes on medium high. Place 2 salmon fillets on each wood board and cook until done. Cook for 16 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and readily flakes with a fork.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately from the wood plank, garnished with lime wedges.