How to Make a Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe at Home (Grill to Table Guide)

Bring the Sizzle of the Grill to Your Backyard

Imagine this: you’re standing in your backyard, the grill is warm, the cedar smoke is rising gently, and the rich aroma of sizzling salmon is filling the air. That’s not just dinner—it’s a moment. Cedar plank salmon isn’t reserved for restaurant menus or master chefs. It’s something you can prepare effortlessly at home. With a few easy-to-follow steps and the right ingredients, your salmon dinners can go from simple to stunning.

This guide walks you through a foolproof cedar plank salmon recipe—from prep to plating. Whether you’re a grill enthusiast or an oven loyalist, you’ll discover how to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your dinner table. No culinary degree needed.

What Is Cedar Plank Salmon and Why It Works

Understanding the Flavor Method

Cedar plank salmon is a technique where salmon fillets are cooked directly on a soaked cedar wood plank, typically over a grill or in an oven. This method gently steams the salmon while infusing it with the smoky, woodsy aroma of cedar.

Why does it matter?

• It keeps the fish moist and evenly cooked.
• It delivers a depth of flavor that’s hard to match.
• It makes you look like a pro, even if it’s your first time.

Why You Should Try This Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe

• It’s beginner-friendly.
• Minimal cleanup is required.
• Ideal for impressing guests or elevating your solo dinner.
• Cedar enhances—not overwhelms—the salmon’s natural richness.

Essential Ingredients and Tools for Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe

Ingredients Table (For 2 Servings)

Gear You’ll Need

• Cedar plank (food-safe, untreated)
• Grill or oven
• Tongs
• Spatula
• Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
• Spray bottle (for grill flare-ups)
• Baking sheet (if using the oven)

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Cedar Plank Salmon at Home

1. Soak the Cedar Plank

• Submerge the cedar plank in water for at least 1–2 hours.
• Optional: add white wine, apple juice, or citrus slices to the soaking water for extra aroma.

2. Prep the Salmon

• Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
• Brush lightly with olive oil.
• Sprinkle salt, pepper, and minced garlic evenly.
• Top with lemon slices and a generous pinch of herbs.

3. Preheat the Grill or Oven

• Grill: Medium-high heat (375°F–400°F). Preheat plank for 2 minutes.
• Oven: Set to 400°F and place soaked plank on a baking sheet.

4. Place and Cook the Salmon

• Lay salmon skin-side down on the plank.
• Grill: Close lid, cook for 12–15 minutes until the flesh flakes easily.
• Oven: Bake 15–18 minutes on the center rack.

Pro Tip: Keep a spray bottle handy if using a grill—flare-ups are part of the charm.

5. Serve it Up

• Use a spatula to remove the salmon from the plank.
• Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
• Garnish with extra lemon and herbs.

Tasty Flavor Variations to Explore

Maple-Glazed Cedar Plank Salmon

• Mix 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and a dash of soy sauce.
• Brush onto salmon before grilling.

Asian-Inspired Marinade

• Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a hint of honey.
• Marinate fillets for 30 minutes before placing on the plank.

Spicy Cajun Twist

• Rub salmon with Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, and onion powder.
• Great for spice lovers who want that bold Southern kick.

Tips for Perfect Cedar Plank Salmon Every Time

Quick Dos and Don’ts

• ✅ Soak the plank well.
• ✅ Preheat plank before adding fish.
• ✅ Monitor cooking closely.
• ❌ Don’t reuse charred or cracked planks.
• ❌ Don’t overcook—the salmon will dry out.

How to Tell When It’s Done

• Internal temperature: 135–145°F (use a thermometer if unsure).
• Flesh should flake easily with a fork.
• It should look opaque, not raw or shiny in the center.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Cedar Plank Salmon

Go-To Side Dishes

• Wild rice pilaf with herbs
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Grilled asparagus or zucchini
• Quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans with toasted almonds

Storage & Leftover Tips

How to Store

• Let salmon cool to room temperature before storing.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat Without Drying It Out

• Oven: 275°F for 10–15 minutes wrapped in foil.
• Avoid microwave—it compromises the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I reuse the cedar plank after one cook?

If it’s only slightly charred, yes—just scrub it down. But for optimal flavor and safety, fresh planks are best.

What kind of cedar should I use for a cedar plank salmon recipe?

Always use untreated, food-safe cedar planks. Never use construction wood—it’s not safe for food.

Can I make cedar plank salmon without a grill?

Absolutely. The oven method works beautifully. Just place the soaked plank on a baking sheet and follow the same cooking times.

Is cedar plank salmon healthy?

Yes, it’s a lean source of protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and low in saturated fat. Plus, cooking on a plank avoids extra oils or butter.

Does cedar plank salmon taste too smoky?

Not at all. The cedar adds a subtle, earthy flavor that enhances the salmon—it’s well-balanced, not overwhelming.

Final Thoughts: Bringing the Flavor Home

You don’t need fancy equipment or years of culinary training to pull off this crowd-pleaser. With this cedar plank salmon recipe, you’re just a few steps away from mastering a dish that delivers flavor, presentation, and satisfaction.

There’s something truly memorable about this recipe—from the way it smells as it grills to the way people react at first bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, cedar plank salmon is a surefire way to elevate your mealtime.

Ready to take your weeknight dinner to a gourmet level? Grab a cedar plank, some fresh salmon, and give this recipe a try tonight. Share your creation using #PlankSalmonAtHome and inspire others to cook boldly. Also check out our other recipes!