Cedar Plank Salmon Garlic Dill (Printable)

Salmon fillets grilled on cedar planks, infused with garlic, dill, and lemon for a vibrant, smoky summer main.

# What You Need:

→ Salmon

01 - 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 ounces each)

→ Marinade & Seasoning

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
05 - 1 lemon, zested and juiced
06 - 1 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ For Grilling

08 - 2 untreated, food-safe cedar planks (approximately 12 by 6 inches)
09 - Lemon slices, for garnish
10 - Additional fresh dill, for garnish

# How to Make It:

01 - Immerse cedar planks in cold water for at least 1 hour and up to 2 hours. Use a weight to ensure complete submersion.
02 - Combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
03 - Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with the prepared marinade, reserving a portion for later basting.
04 - Preheat grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Position soaked cedar planks on the grill grates, close the lid, and heat for 2 minutes until planks start smoking and crackling.
05 - Arrange marinated salmon fillets, skin-side down, on the heated planks. Close grill lid and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, basting once with reserved marinade, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
06 - Remove salmon from grill. Garnish with additional dill and lemon slices. Serve immediately.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The smoky aroma that wafts from the cedar planks transforms salmon into a centerpiece worthy of applause.
  • The marinade clings to each fillet, turning every bite into a burst of bright herbs and citrus—so easy, it feels like cheating.
02 -
  • Never skip soaking the cedar planks—they’ll catch fire before you know it if dry.
  • Basting mid-cook locks in both flavor and moisture, which took me years to figure out and it’s now non-negotiable.
03 -
  • Let planks soak for more than an hour if you can; it adds deeper wood flavor.
  • Press lemon zest into the fillets before grilling for extra pop—this trick is a game changer.
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