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Perfect Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Easy Maple Glaze for Beginners

cedar plank salmon - featured image

A quick and easy cedar plank salmon recipe featuring a sweet and tangy maple glaze that infuses smoky flavor and keeps the salmon moist. Perfect for summer cookouts and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets, about 6 oz (170 g) each
  • Cedar planks, pre-soaked in water for at least 1 hour
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, preferably extra virgin
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (dill or parsley), chopped, optional

Instructions

  1. Soak the cedar planks in cold water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning and allow gentle steaming.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the glaze.
  3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  4. Preheat grill to medium heat (around 375°F / 190°C).
  5. Place soaked cedar planks on the grill grates and heat for 3-5 minutes until they start to crackle and smoke lightly.
  6. Lay salmon skin-side down on the heated cedar plank and brush the top generously with maple glaze.
  7. Close the grill lid and cook salmon for 12-15 minutes until it flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  8. About halfway through cooking, baste salmon with another layer of maple glaze.
  9. Remove cedar plank with salmon from grill using tongs or spatula and let rest for 5 minutes.
  10. Sprinkle fresh chopped dill or parsley on top before serving.

Notes

Soak cedar planks for at least 1 hour to prevent burning. Use skin-on fillets for even cooking and easier serving. Medium heat is ideal to avoid burning the glaze or plank. Baste salmon mid-cook for a sticky, caramelized finish. If plank burns too quickly, move to a cooler spot or reduce heat. Let salmon rest 5 minutes after cooking for best flavor and juiciness. Leftovers keep up to 2 days refrigerated; reheat gently in oven covered with foil.

Nutrition

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