Perfect Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Glaze
A simple and delicious grilled salmon recipe using a cedar plank and a sweet-savory maple glaze that results in tender, juicy fish with a subtle smoky aroma.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- Salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz / 170 g each), fresh or thawed
- Cedar plank (8×12 inches), untreated and food-safe
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Dijon mustard
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh dill or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour before grilling to prevent burning and to release smoky aroma. Optionally add a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar to the soaking water.
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until well combined to make the glaze.
- Pat salmon fillets dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Place skin-side down on the soaked cedar plank and brush the glaze generously over the top of each fillet.
- Preheat grill to medium heat (around 350°F / 175°C). Place the cedar plank on the grill grates and close the lid. Grill for 15-20 minutes until salmon is opaque and flakes easily, and glaze caramelizes without burning. Move to indirect heat if plank smokes excessively.
- Remove plank carefully from grill and let salmon rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh dill or parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Soak the cedar plank for at least 1 hour to prevent burning and to infuse smoky aroma. Use skin-on salmon fillets for better texture and flavor. Monitor grill temperature to avoid burning the glaze. Rest salmon after grilling to keep it juicy. The glaze can be prepared ahead and refrigerated. If cedar planks are unavailable, alder or maple wood planks or foil with soaked wood chips can be used as alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (6 o
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Protein: 34
Keywords: cedar plank salmon, maple glaze salmon, grilled salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, weeknight dinner, gluten-free salmon