Grilled Honey Balsamic Cedar Plank Salmon
Experience the delightful flavors of grilled salmon like never before with this Grilled Honey Balsamic Cedar Plank Salmon recipe. The salmon fillet is beautifully infused with a sweet and tangy glaze made from honey and balsamic vinegar, which complements the fish perfectly. Grilling on a cedar plank not only imparts a subtle smoky flavor but also keeps the salmon moist and flaky. Ideal for summer barbecues or special family dinners, this dish pairs wonderfully with wild rice and a crisp green salad. Prepare yourself for a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, as the salmon emerges perfectly cooked from the grill, exuding a mouth-watering aroma that will tantalize your senses.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Salmon fillet
1 lb (skin on)
Sea salt
1 tablespoon (to taste)
Ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Dry mustard
1/4 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Honey
1/2 cup (liquefied)
Balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup (mixed with honey)
Butter
1 tablespoon (melted)
Cedar plank
1 (soaked for 8 hours)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (for oiling the plank)
Instructions
1
Begin by soaking the cedar plank in water for at least 8 hours to prevent it from catching fire on the grill.
2
Preheat the grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
3
Using a sharp knife, carefully make a few shallow slits on the skin side of the salmon fillet (or each portion), ensuring you do not cut all the way through. This step helps the glaze penetrate the flesh of the fish for enhanced flavor.
4
In a small mixing bowl, combine the sea salt, ground pepper, and dry mustard. Mix well.
5
In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey for about 30 seconds until it becomes liquid. Remove from the microwave and stir in the balsamic vinegar until fully combined.
6
Using a basting brush, spread the melted butter evenly over the flesh side of the salmon. Then season the flesh side with the dry seasoning mixture, gently patting it on for even coverage.
7
Brush the salmon with the honey-balsamic mixture, ensuring it is well-coated. Reserve some of the glaze for basting later.
8
Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill. Heat it for approximately 3-5 minutes until it starts to brown. Keep a close watch to prevent any flare-ups.
9
Once the plank is ready, remove it from the grill and carefully rub olive oil on the side that will be in contact with the salmon.
10
Transfer the seasoned salmon skin-side down onto the oiled side of the plank. Baste the fish with the remaining honey-balsamic mixture.
11
Close the grill lid and cook the salmon for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Thicker cuts of salmon may require additional cooking time.
12
If grilling indoors or looking to minimize excess drippings, utilize a cookie sheet underneath the cedar plank for easy clean-up.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Grilled Honey Balsamic Cedar Plank Salmon?
It is a flavorful seafood dish featuring a salmon fillet glazed with honey and balsamic vinegar, grilled on a water-soaked cedar plank for a smoky, flaky finish.
How long should I soak the cedar plank before grilling?
The cedar plank should be soaked in water for at least 8 hours to prevent it from catching fire on the grill.
What is the recommended grill temperature for this recipe?
You should preheat your grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal cooking.
Why do I need to make slits in the salmon skin?
Making shallow slits on the skin side allows the honey-balsamic glaze to penetrate the flesh deeper for enhanced flavor.
What spices are used in the dry seasoning mixture?
The dry seasoning consists of sea salt, ground pepper, and dry mustard.
How do I prepare the honey for the glaze?
Warm the honey in a microwave-safe bowl for approximately 30 seconds until it reaches a liquid consistency.
What are the main components of the glaze?
The glaze is a simple and delicious combination of liquefied honey and balsamic vinegar.
How is the butter used in this recipe?
Melted butter is brushed evenly over the flesh side of the salmon before applying the dry seasonings.
How long do I preheat the cedar plank on the grill?
Place the soaked plank on the grill for 3 to 5 minutes until it begins to brown slightly.
Do I need to oil the cedar plank?
Yes, after preheating the plank, rub olive oil on the side that will be in contact with the salmon to prevent sticking.
Which side of the salmon should be placed on the plank?
The seasoned salmon should be placed skin-side down onto the oiled side of the cedar plank.
How long does the salmon take to cook on the grill?
The salmon typically takes 15 to 20 minutes to cook, though thicker cuts may require more time.
How can I tell when the salmon is finished cooking?
The salmon is done when it is cooked through and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
Can I use this recipe for individual salmon portions?
Yes, you can use either a whole 1 lb fillet or individual portions; just ensure each portion is properly slit and glazed.
What can I do to minimize cleanup when grilling?
You can place a cookie sheet underneath the cedar plank to catch any excess drippings.
What are some recommended side dishes for this salmon?
This dish pairs exceptionally well with wild rice and a crisp green salad.
Is this salmon recipe suitable for summer barbecues?
Yes, it is ideal for summer barbecues, offering a visually stunning presentation and mouth-watering aroma.
What flavor does the cedar plank provide?
Grilling on a cedar plank imparts a subtle smoky flavor while keeping the fish moist and flaky.
Does the salmon need to be skin-on?
The recipe specifies a 1 lb salmon fillet with the skin on, which helps protect the fish during the plank-grilling process.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter for the seasoning base?
The recipe calls for butter for richness, but olive oil could be used as a substitute if necessary.
Should the grill lid be open or closed?
You should close the grill lid while cooking to maintain the 400 degree temperature and trap the cedar smoke.
How much honey is required for the glaze?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of honey, which is then mixed with balsamic vinegar.
What is the ratio of honey to balsamic vinegar?
The ratio is 2:1, specifically 1/2 cup of honey to 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar.
How much salt and pepper should I use?
Use 1 tablespoon of sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon of ground pepper, or adjust to your personal taste preference.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, salmon is a great source of protein and healthy fats, and this recipe uses natural ingredients like honey and olive oil.
What type of mustard is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of dry mustard for the seasoning rub.
How do I apply the glaze to the fish?
Use a basting brush to coat the salmon with the honey-balsamic mixture before it goes on the grill.
What should I do with the remaining glaze?
Reserve some of the glaze to baste the fish again once it has been transferred onto the cedar plank on the grill.
Can I prepare the seasonings in advance?
Yes, you can mix the dry seasonings (salt, pepper, mustard) in a small bowl ahead of time.
What is the total number of ingredients in this recipe?
This recipe includes 9 main ingredients: salmon, sea salt, pepper, dry mustard, honey, balsamic vinegar, butter, a cedar plank, and olive oil.