Savory Cedar Grilled Salmon
This delightful Savory Cedar Grilled Salmon recipe is a true taste of summer, bringing forth the vibrant flavors of outdoor cooking right to your table. Inspired by Bobby Flay's culinary expertise, this dish features tender salmon fillets marinated in a perfect blend of Dijon mustard and brown sugar, grilled on a cedar plank to infuse a rich, smoky flavor. The result is a beautifully flaky and moist salmon that is not only delicious but also elegantly presented on the cedar plank, making it a stunning centerpiece for any meal. Perfect for grilling aficionados and beginners alike, this dish is ideal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner for two. Experience the harmony of flavors and the joy of cooking with this fantastic recipe!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cedar plank
1 (Soaked in salted water for 2 hours)
Salmon fillets
2 (1 1/2 pounds total) (Skin removed and bones removed)
Salt
to taste (For seasoning)
Black pepper
to taste (Freshly ground for seasoning)
Dijon mustard
6 tablespoons (For spreading on the salmon)
Brown sugar
6 tablespoons (Crumble before sprinkling on the salmon)
Instructions
1
Start by soaking the cedar plank in salted water for at least 2 hours to prevent it from burning during grilling. Once soaked, drain the plank and set it aside.
2
Prepare the salmon by removing the skin and any remaining bones. Rinse the salmon under cold running water, then pat it dry using paper towels.
3
Generously season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4
Position the salmon on the cedar plank, skin-side down. Use a spatula to gently spread the Dijon mustard evenly over the top and sides of the salmon.
5
In a bowl, crumble the brown sugar between your fingers to break up any clumps, then sprinkle it generously over the mustard-covered salmon.
6
Preheat your grill for indirect cooking by setting it to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the soaked cedar plank in the center of the grill grate, not directly over the heat.
7
Cover the grill and let the salmon cook for 20 to 30 minutes, checking periodically until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done.
8
Carefully transfer the cedar plank with the salmon to a platter. Serve directly from the plank for an impressive presentation.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Cedar Grilled Salmon?
It is a summer-inspired dish featuring salmon fillets marinated in Dijon mustard and brown sugar, grilled on a cedar plank for a smoky flavor.
How long should I soak the cedar plank?
The cedar plank should be soaked in salted water for at least 2 hours to prevent it from burning during the grilling process.
Why is the cedar plank soaked in salted water?
Soaking the plank prevents it from catching fire on the grill, while the salt helps season the wood and the fish.
Should the skin be left on the salmon?
The recipe recommends removing the skin and any remaining bones before cooking.
How should I prepare the salmon fillets before seasoning?
Rinse the salmon under cold running water and pat it completely dry using paper towels.
What seasonings are used for the base of the salmon?
Both sides of the salmon fillets should be generously seasoned with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
What kind of mustard is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 tablespoons of Dijon mustard to be spread evenly over the top and sides of the salmon.
How is the brown sugar prepared before being added to the salmon?
You should crumble the brown sugar between your fingers to break up any clumps before sprinkling it over the mustard.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat for indirect cooking.
What is the correct way to place the salmon on the cedar plank?
The salmon should be positioned on the plank skin-side down (or where the skin used to be).
Where on the grill should I place the cedar plank?
Place the plank in the center of the grill grate, making sure it is not directly over the heat source to allow for indirect cooking.
How long does the salmon need to cook?
The salmon typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes to cook through.
What is the target internal temperature for the salmon?
The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 135 F (57 C).
How can I tell if the salmon is finished cooking without a thermometer?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork when it is properly cooked.
How should the dish be served for the best presentation?
Serve the salmon directly from the cedar plank on a platter for an impressive and rustic look.
Who is the culinary inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the culinary expertise of Bobby Flay.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients: a cedar plank, salmon fillets, salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar.
What total weight of salmon is recommended?
The recipe suggests using two salmon fillets totaling approximately 1 1/2 pounds.
Should the grill be covered while cooking?
Yes, you should cover the grill to allow the heat and smoke to circulate around the salmon.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is designed for both grilling aficionados and beginners alike.
Does this recipe yield a smoky flavor?
Yes, grilling the salmon on a cedar plank infuses the meat with a rich, smoky flavor.
What is the texture of the finished salmon?
The finished salmon is beautifully flaky and moist.
What are the primary flavor components of the glaze?
The glaze combines the tanginess of Dijon mustard with the sweetness of brown sugar.
Is this a high-protein meal?
Yes, salmon is a great source of protein, and 'high protein' is one of the tags for this recipe.
What should I do with the plank after soaking?
Drain the plank and set it aside until you are ready to position the salmon on it.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy dinner option involving seafood and outdoor cooking.
How do I apply the mustard to the salmon?
Use a spatula to gently spread the mustard evenly over the top and sides of the fillets.
Can this recipe be used for family gatherings?
Absolutely, its elegant presentation makes it a stunning centerpiece for family meals or cozy dinners.
What kind of black pepper should be used?
Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
How often should I check the salmon while it's on the grill?
You should check the salmon periodically to ensure it doesn't overcook and to monitor its internal temperature.