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Flavorful Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Glaze

cedar plank salmon with maple glaze - featured image

A simple yet unforgettable cedar plank salmon recipe featuring a sweet and savory maple glaze that infuses smoky flavor and keeps the fish tender and juicy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large salmon fillet, skin-on (about 2 pounds / 900 grams) – fresh or thawed
  • 1 cedar plank (soaked in water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning)
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill or parsley leaves (optional, for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour (overnight is better) to prevent burning and to infuse smoky flavor.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Preheat grill to medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C). If using a grill pan, warm on medium-high stovetop heat and clean surface.
  4. Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Place skin-side down on the soaked cedar plank.
  5. Brush the salmon generously with the maple glaze, reserving some for basting during cooking.
  6. Place the cedar plank on the grill grates. Close lid and cook for 20-25 minutes, basting with remaining glaze halfway through.
  7. Check for doneness: salmon should flake easily and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  8. Remove plank from grill carefully and let salmon rest for 5 minutes.
  9. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Notes

Soak the cedar plank for at least 1 hour or overnight to prevent burning and enhance smoky flavor. Baste salmon twice with glaze for a sticky, caramelized finish. Use skin-on fillets to keep fish moist. Rest salmon after grilling for juicy texture. If flare-ups occur, move plank to cooler grill area or lift lid briefly. For indoor cooking, use a grill pan but smoky flavor will be less pronounced.

Nutrition

Keywords: cedar plank salmon, maple glaze, grilled salmon, easy salmon recipe, smoky salmon, healthy salmon, gluten-free salmon