Cooking salmon on a cedar plank brings a delightful smoky flavor that perfectly complements the rich, buttery texture of the fish. This method is a great way to enjoy grilling without worrying about the salmon sticking or falling through the grates, making it beginner-friendly yet impressive enough for entertaining.
This Cedar Planked Salmon recipe is also incredibly versatile. The soy and ginger marinade infuses a subtle umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the natural oils in the fish. Ideal for a summer BBQ, this dish goes well with sides like roasted potatoes, fresh greens, or grilled veggies. Get ready to wow your guests with this simple yet sophisticated recipe that’s sure to become a staple.
Full Recipe:
- 1 cedar plank, soaked in water for 2 hours
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Directions:
- Begin by soaking the cedar plank in water for at least 2 hours. This will help prevent it from burning on the grill.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, green onions, ginger, and garlic to make the marinade.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat.
- Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill, heating it until it begins to smoke and crackle slightly.
- Arrange the marinated salmon fillets on the cedar plank, close the grill lid, and cook for 20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Marinating Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 280 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Cedar Planked Salmon: A Fusion of Flavor and Tradition
Grilling salmon on a cedar plank brings a unique and smoky flavor that’s rich with history and nuanced in taste. This technique, often associated with Native American culinary practices in the Pacific Northwest, has become popular among home cooks and grilling enthusiasts alike. Cooking salmon in this way adds a touch of rustic elegance to the dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
The Origin of Cedar Plank Grilling
Using cedar planks to grill food dates back centuries, particularly among indigenous tribes in the Pacific Northwest. These communities would place freshly caught fish on slabs of cedar wood, allowing it to cook slowly over an open flame. The cedar would impart a unique smoky flavor, and the moisture from the soaked wood would prevent the fish from drying out. This technique not only made the fish flavorful but also preserved it, providing nourishment for longer periods. This tradition, celebrated and refined over generations, has been embraced in modern kitchens, allowing us to enjoy an authentic, time-honored culinary experience.
Why Cedar Plank Salmon?
Grilling salmon on a cedar plank offers several advantages that elevate the dish from a standard seafood meal to a gourmet experience. For one, the cedar plank helps the fish maintain moisture, yielding a delicate, tender texture that’s hard to achieve with traditional grilling methods. When the plank is heated, it releases aromatic smoke that infuses the salmon with a mild, woodsy flavor. This natural flavor enhancement requires no artificial additives and complements the natural richness of salmon perfectly.
Additionally, cedar planks make grilling more accessible for beginners. Because the salmon rests on the plank rather than the grill grates, there’s less chance of it sticking or falling apart. The plank acts as a gentle barrier between the intense heat and the fish, allowing it to cook evenly and thoroughly. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice, cedar-plank grilling offers an effortless way to prepare a delicious, foolproof salmon dish.
The Perfect Marinade: Soy and Ginger
This cedar-planked salmon recipe uses a soy and ginger marinade, which pairs exceptionally well with the fish’s natural oils and the smoky flavor from the cedar. Soy sauce brings a salty, umami depth, while ginger adds a fresh, zesty note that cuts through the richness of the fish. Combined with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and minced garlic, the marinade is layered with complementary flavors that enhance the salmon without overpowering its delicate taste.
The soy and ginger marinade also serves a functional purpose, as the acids in the vinegar help tenderize the fish and infuse it with moisture. This brief marinade step means the fish will cook quickly and evenly, remaining juicy and flavorful even after grilling. As the salmon cooks, the marinade caramelizes slightly, creating a flavorful crust on the outside of the fish while the interior stays soft and moist. This contrast in textures – crisp on the outside and buttery on the inside – is one of the many reasons cedar-planked salmon is such a beloved dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is renowned not only for its flavor but also for its nutritional benefits. Packed with high-quality protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids, salmon supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and promotes brain function. These omega-3s are particularly important for cardiovascular health, as they can help reduce blood pressure, lower triglyceride levels, and prevent blood clots. Moreover, salmon is an excellent source of B vitamins, selenium, and potassium, all of which play vital roles in overall health and wellness.
Cooking salmon on a cedar plank preserves its nutrients while infusing it with additional flavor. Unlike deep-frying or sautéing, grilling on a cedar plank doesn’t require added fats or oils, keeping the calorie count low. This makes cedar-planked salmon a healthy choice that doesn’t sacrifice taste for nutrition. Plus, the pairing of salmon with fresh ingredients like ginger and garlic enhances its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, making this dish a wholesome option for any meal.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Cedar-planked salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Its smoky, woodsy notes complement earthy vegetables like roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, or sautéed kale. For a fresher contrast, consider serving it with a bright, tangy cucumber salad or a mixed green salad with citrus vinaigrette. Rice dishes, especially those with herbs or light spices, also work well, absorbing the salmon’s rich flavors without competing with them.
If you’re looking to add a twist, try serving cedar-planked salmon with an Asian-inspired side, such as steamed jasmine rice and sesame-glazed bok choy. The soy and ginger marinade harmonizes with these flavors, creating a cohesive and balanced meal. Alternatively, for a Mediterranean-inspired meal, pair the salmon with a quinoa salad, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese for a fresh and satisfying contrast.
Tips for Perfect Cedar Plank Grilling
To get the best results from your cedar-planked salmon, make sure to soak the plank in water for at least two hours before grilling. This crucial step prevents the wood from catching fire and releases moisture, which helps keep the fish tender. For additional flavor, you can soak the plank in apple juice, white wine, or even a splash of bourbon. Once the plank starts to crackle on the grill, you know it’s ready to infuse the salmon with its smoky aroma.
Another key tip is to preheat the grill to medium heat. High heat may cause the plank to burn too quickly, while low heat may not be enough to cook the salmon evenly. Position the salmon skin-side down on the plank to help it retain moisture and prevent sticking. When the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, it’s fully cooked – this should take about 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Cedar-Planked Salmon: A Versatile Dish for All Occasions
Cedar-planked salmon is a versatile dish that works for a variety of occasions, from casual family dinners to upscale gatherings. It’s an ideal choice for summer barbecues, as the subtle smoky aroma fills the air and sets the scene for a memorable meal. However, it’s equally suitable for weeknight dinners, thanks to its simplicity and minimal cleanup. The plank serves as both a cooking surface and a rustic presentation, meaning you can take it straight from the grill to the table for a striking display.
For those looking to experiment, cedar-planked salmon provides ample room for customization. You can easily adapt the marinade to incorporate different flavors, such as a honey-mustard glaze or a teriyaki sauce. Additionally, the method is not limited to salmon – other fish like trout, halibut, or even scallops can be prepared using the same technique for an equally delicious result.
Conclusion
Cedar-planked salmon brings together flavor, nutrition, and tradition in a way few dishes can. With its rich history rooted in indigenous cooking practices, this recipe provides a unique way to enjoy salmon while celebrating the art of grilling. The combination of a smoky cedar aroma and a savory soy-ginger marinade creates a mouthwatering experience that appeals to seasoned grillers and beginners alike.
Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, cedar-planked salmon offers a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that stands out. Its adaptability means you can make it your own, adding personal touches while maintaining the essence of this time-honored cooking method. As you gather around the grill, the aroma of cedar and marinated salmon creates an unforgettable ambiance, ensuring that this dish will become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire.