Cedar Plank Salmon Garlic Dill (Printable View)

Tender salmon is grilled on cedar planks with garlic, dill, and lemon for bright, smoky flavor.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Salmon

01 - 4 salmon fillets, skin-on, each approximately 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 each
09 - Lemon slices, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Submerge cedar planks in cold water for a minimum of 1 hour and up to 2 hours, using a weight to ensure complete immersion.
02 - Combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a mixing bowl until well blended.
03 - Pat salmon fillets dry using paper towels. Brush both sides of fillets generously with marinade, reserving a portion for basting during grilling.
04 - Preheat outdoor grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F). Position soaked cedar planks on the grill grates, close lid, and heat for 2 minutes until planks emit smoke and begin to crackle.
05 - Place salmon fillets, skin-side down, on heated cedar planks. Close grill lid and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, basting once with reserved marinade, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
06 - Remove salmon from grill. Garnish with additional fresh dill and lemon slices. Serve immediately.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • You won't believe how the cedar transforms salmon into something smoky, tender, and completely unique.
  • This recipe turns a simple grill night into a special occasion without any fuss.
02 -
  • Don't skip the plank soak — I learned the hard way when my first attempt resulted in charred wood and dry fish.
  • Basting mid-grill keeps the salmon moist and introduces waves of lemon and dill aroma.
03 -
  • Let the salmon rest for two minutes before serving to keep the juices intact.
  • Soaking the planks in a dash of white wine or apple juice adds another layer of fragrance.
Return