Cedar Plank Garlic Dill Salmon (Printable)

Smoky cedar-planked salmon fillets infused with garlic, dill, and lemon for fresh, summery flavor.

# What You'll Need:

→ Salmon

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

→ Marinade & Seasoning

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
05 - 1 lemon, zested and juiced
06 - 1 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ For Grilling

08 - 2 food-safe untreated cedar planks, each approximately 12 x 6 inches
09 - Lemon slices, for garnish
10 - Extra fresh dill, for garnish

# How To Make It:

01 - Immerse cedar planks in cold water for a minimum of 1 hour and up to 2 hours, placing a weight atop each plank to keep them fully submerged.
02 - Combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, and ground black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly.
03 - Pat salmon fillets dry. Brush both sides generously with the marinade, reserving a portion for basting during grilling.
04 - Preheat outdoor grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Position soaked cedar planks on the grates, close the lid, and heat for 2 minutes until the planks begin to smoke and crackle.
05 - Arrange salmon fillets, skin-side down, atop the warmed planks. Close grill lid and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, basting once with reserved marinade, until salmon becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
06 - Remove salmon from the grill. Garnish with additional fresh dill and lemon slices. Serve promptly.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The cedar plank transforms salmon into something rich and nuanced, as if you've secretly leveled up your grill game.
  • This dish is as impressive as it is easy—no fancy tools, just wholesome flavor and a hit of summer with every mouthful.
02 -
  • Skipping the plank soak can cause the wood to scorch and ruin both fish and grill—the patience is worth it.
  • Basting halfway through dramatically heightens the herby flavor and keeps the salmon juicy.
03 -
  • If you want stronger cedar flavor, warm the planks on the grill for a few extra minutes before adding salmon.
  • A pinch of flaky sea salt as garnish can make the flavors pop just before serving.
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