Smoky Cedar-Plank Baked or Grilled Salmon
Enjoy an exquisite culinary experience with this Smoky Cedar-Plank Baked or Grilled Salmon recipe, which is a delightful adaptation inspired by the popular Real Simple magazine's readers' favorite recipes. Using fresh salmon fillets with skin on, this dish promises to be free of any fishy odor and instead offers an irresistible smoky aroma that infuses each bite. The cedar plank not only adds flavor but also moisture, making the salmon wonderfully tender. Whether you prefer baking in the oven or grilling outdoors, this versatile recipe is straightforward and perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet lunch or snack. Best served with a squeeze of fresh lemon, it's sure to become a go-to favorite for your dining table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Salmon fillets
2 lb (with skin on)
Light brown sugar
1/2 cup (packed)
Canola oil
2 tablespoons (none)
Dried thyme
1 tablespoon (none)
Cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
2
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) or prepare your grill for medium heat.
3
Once the plank is soaked, place it on a rimmed baking sheet if baking, or directly on the grill if grilling.
4
Lay the salmon fillet skin side down on the soaked cedar plank.
5
In a small bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, canola oil, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
6
Spread the mixture evenly over the salmon, ensuring it is fully coated.
7
Cover the salmon with aluminum foil to retain moisture during cooking.
8
For baking, place the baking sheet with the salmon in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
9
For grilling, place the foil-covered plank directly on the grill grates. Grill for the same duration, checking for doneness.
10
Once cooked, remove from the oven or grill and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I soak the cedar plank before cooking?
Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 30 minutes before you begin the cooking process.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking the salmon?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
Can I prepare this salmon on an outdoor grill?
Yes, you can prepare your grill for medium heat and place the cedar plank directly on the grill grates.
What ingredients are needed for the salmon glaze?
The glaze consists of 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons canola oil, 1 tablespoon dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
Should the salmon fillets have the skin on or off?
The recipe calls for 2 lb of salmon fillets with the skin on.
How should the salmon be placed on the cedar plank?
Lay the salmon fillet skin side down onto the soaked cedar plank.
Is it necessary to cover the salmon with foil?
Yes, covering the salmon with aluminum foil helps to retain moisture during the cooking process.
How long does it take to cook the salmon in the oven?
Roast the salmon for 25-30 minutes, or until it is opaque throughout and flakes easily.
How do I know when the salmon is finished cooking?
The salmon is done when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
What should I serve with the cedar-plank salmon?
Serve the salmon immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.
What flavor does the cedar plank provide?
The cedar plank infuses the fish with a smoky aroma and adds moisture to keep the meat tender.
Is this recipe considered spicy?
It has a slight kick from the 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper included in the glaze.
What type of sugar is best for the glaze?
The recipe recommends using packed light brown sugar for the glaze mixture.
Can I use a different type of oil instead of canola oil?
While the recipe specifies canola oil, you could likely use another neutral-flavored oil if needed.
Should the cedar plank be placed on a baking sheet?
If baking in the oven, place the soaked plank on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips.
Does the salmon have a strong fishy odor when cooked this way?
No, this method promises a dish free of fishy odors, replaced by a pleasant smoky aroma.
What herb is used to season the salmon?
One tablespoon of dried thyme is used to season the fish.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick lunch?
Yes, it is versatile enough for a gourmet lunch, a snack, or a formal dinner.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe is an adaptation inspired by reader favorites from Real Simple magazine.
Is this a healthy recipe choice?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe due to the inclusion of fresh salmon and limited added fats.
How do I mix the glaze?
Whisk together the light brown sugar, canola oil, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
How much salmon does this recipe serve?
The recipe uses 2 lbs of salmon fillets, which typically serves 4 to 6 people.
Should I grill the salmon covered or uncovered?
The recipe recommends covering the salmon with foil even when grilling to help it stay moist.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
The recipe calls for dried thyme, but you can use fresh thyme if you adjust the ratio (usually triple the amount for fresh).
Does the plank need to be soaked if I am only baking it?
Yes, the plank must be soaked for 30 minutes regardless of whether you are baking or grilling.
How do I apply the glaze to the fish?
Spread the sugar and oil mixture evenly over the top of the salmon until it is fully coated.
What is the preparation time for the salmon?
Preparation includes a 30-minute soak for the plank followed by about 5-10 minutes of mixing and coating.
Can I use other types of wood planks?
While this recipe specifically highlights cedar for its smoky flavor, other food-grade wood planks like alder could be used.
What heat setting is best for grilling?
A medium heat setting on your grill is ideal for cooking the salmon on a cedar plank.
Is this recipe considered easy for beginners?
Yes, it is described as a straightforward and easy recipe perfect for impressing guests.