The unique flavor of this Cedar Planked Salmon comes from the gentle smokiness of cedar wood combined with a soy-ginger marinade. Grilling on cedar not only enhances the flavor but also locks in the moisture, ensuring a flaky and juicy texture that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality.
Ideal for a summer cookout or a cozy dinner at home, this cedar plank salmon pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted rosemary potatoes or a light garlic kale salad. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is bound to become a favorite for its simplicity and robust flavor profile.
Full Recipe:
- 2 cedar planks (soaked in water for 1-2 hours)
- 1 ½ pounds of salmon fillets
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Directions:
- Prepare Cedar Planks: Soak cedar planks in water for at least 1 hour, preferably 2, to prevent burning.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, green onions, ginger, and garlic.
- Marinate the Salmon: Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, turning occasionally to coat.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 350°F).
- Grill the Salmon: Place the soaked cedar planks on the grill and heat until they start to smoke and crackle. Place the salmon fillets on the planks, skin side down. Close the grill lid and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Carefully remove the planks from the grill. Serve the salmon directly from the planks or transfer it to a serving dish.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Cedar Planked Salmon: A Culinary Tradition and Flavor Experience
Cedar planked salmon brings together the natural flavor of salmon with the subtle smokiness of cedar, creating a meal that’s visually stunning and rich in taste. This cooking technique, which has roots in indigenous cultures along the Pacific Northwest, adds a complex, earthy quality to the salmon. The method itself has remained popular for good reason; it’s simple, efficient, and enhances both the taste and presentation of this beloved fish. This dish’s appeal goes beyond just flavor—its preparation and presentation make it perfect for special occasions, backyard barbecues, and family dinners alike.
The Origins of Cedar Plank Cooking
The technique of cooking on wood, especially cedar, traces back to the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, who used local wood to enhance the flavor of freshly caught fish. This method was both practical and flavorful, as cedar naturally infused a mild smoky essence into the fish, enhancing its taste without overpowering its natural flavor. Traditionally, these cultures would cook salmon over an open flame, securing it to cedar boards or stakes, where it would absorb the wood’s flavors while cooking slowly and evenly. The method not only protected the fish from the fire but also kept it moist.
This traditional method inspired modern culinary techniques, and cooking salmon on cedar planks has since become a popular method, even among professional chefs. The combination of moist, tender salmon with a smoky cedar infusion continues to be a favorite preparation that delivers depth of flavor while preserving the fish’s delicate texture.
Flavor Profile: The Perfect Balance of Smoky and Savory
Cooking salmon on a cedar plank yields a unique and subtle flavor profile that is difficult to replicate with other methods. The cedar imparts a mild smokiness that complements salmon’s naturally rich, buttery taste. The addition of a marinade, such as soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, enhances this dish with savory, umami notes. The marinade not only seasons the fish but also locks in moisture, resulting in a tender, flaky texture.
The cedar plank also serves as a buffer between the heat source and the fish, ensuring a gentle cooking process. This gentler heat distribution creates a moist, perfectly cooked fillet that doesn’t dry out or overcook—a common challenge when grilling salmon. The end result is a harmonious mix of smoky and savory flavors with a pleasingly soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Health Benefits of Salmon
In addition to being a culinary delight, cedar planked salmon offers numerous health benefits. Salmon is renowned for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats known for supporting cardiovascular health. These healthy fats also aid in reducing inflammation, improving cognitive function, and promoting skin health. Omega-3s are also known to improve joint health, making this dish ideal for active individuals or those with inflammatory conditions.
Beyond omega-3s, salmon is a great source of lean protein, vitamin D, B vitamins, and selenium. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, while B vitamins support energy levels and metabolic function. Selenium, a trace mineral found in salmon, plays a role in thyroid function and offers antioxidant protection, aiding in cell repair and promoting a healthy immune system.
Eating salmon regularly can support a well-rounded diet, especially when prepared using a health-conscious method like cedar planking, which doesn’t require excessive oils or fats. The addition of a marinade with ingredients like ginger and garlic further enhances the dish’s nutritional profile, as these components have known health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and supporting immunity.
Culinary Tips for Preparing Cedar Planked Salmon
- Soak the Cedar Planks: Soaking the planks in water for at least one hour is essential, as it prevents them from catching fire on the grill and allows for even heat distribution. Some cooks even add wine or apple juice to the soaking water to impart additional layers of flavor.
- Choose High-Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon whenever possible. Wild salmon tends to have a richer flavor and firmer texture, making it ideal for this preparation. Ensure that the fillet is evenly cut to allow for uniform cooking on the plank.
- Marinate for Flavor: The marinade not only flavors the salmon but also helps lock in moisture. Traditional marinades with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sesame oil pair beautifully with cedar planked salmon. For a slightly sweet finish, adding a hint of maple syrup or honey can create a pleasant contrast to the smokiness of the cedar.
- Preheat the Plank on the Grill: Place the soaked plank on the grill for a few minutes until it begins to crackle and smoke. This step infuses the cedar aroma into the cooking process, giving the fish a richer, smokier flavor.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Since cedar plank cooking uses indirect heat, salmon cooks more gently than directly on the grill grates. On a medium grill, the fish should take about 20 minutes to cook through, but monitoring its flakiness with a fork is the best way to ensure it’s done without overcooking.
- Serve from the Plank: Presenting the salmon directly on the plank adds to its rustic appeal and makes for an impressive table presentation. Guests can appreciate both the aroma of the cedar and the beautifully cooked fish.
Ideal Pairings and Sides
Cedar planked salmon pairs well with a variety of sides, depending on the occasion and your taste preferences. For a light, refreshing meal, consider pairing it with a simple mixed greens salad or grilled asparagus with a sprinkle of Parmesan. A lemon-garlic vinaigrette works well to brighten the plate and complements the salmon’s rich flavor.
For a heartier pairing, roasted rosemary potatoes or a wild rice pilaf provides a filling complement to the salmon. Vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed kale add a nutritious and earthy element to the meal. For a slightly sweeter pairing, a mango salsa or roasted carrots with a honey glaze can balance the smoky, savory flavors with a touch of natural sweetness.
If you’re looking to create a complete Pacific Northwest-inspired meal, serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which will balance the salmon’s richness with its bright acidity.
Versatility and Occasion Suitability
Cedar planked salmon is an extremely versatile dish that can fit seamlessly into various dining occasions. Whether it’s a casual family dinner, an elegant holiday meal, or a backyard gathering with friends, cedar planked salmon makes a statement. The dish’s rustic, smoky aroma creates a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for outdoor summer cookouts or cozy autumn dinners.
One of the advantages of cedar plank salmon is its adaptability. For a festive touch, you could add a cranberry glaze for a holiday twist or accompany it with seasonal vegetables. The dish’s simplicity also makes it suitable for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, offering a restaurant-quality experience without an elaborate preparation process.
Conclusion: A Flavorful, Nutritious, and Memorable Meal
Cedar planked salmon offers a unique culinary experience that combines tradition, flavor, and health benefits in one delicious dish. Its origins from indigenous cooking methods lend a touch of cultural significance, while the plank’s smoky influence enhances the salmon’s natural richness. Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation, cedar planked salmon stands out as a versatile dish that can cater to various tastes and dietary needs.
This recipe not only delights the palate but also provides a wholesome meal filled with essential nutrients. Whether enjoyed as the centerpiece of a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, cedar planked salmon is sure to impress guests and family alike. Its combination of flavors and textures, along with its nourishing properties, make it a dish that’s worth adding to your regular meal rotation. As you savor the smoky, savory flavors, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and elegance of this time-honored cooking method.