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Flavorful Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Easy Maple Dijon Glaze

cedar plank salmon - featured image

This cedar plank salmon recipe features a sweet and tangy maple Dijon glaze that caramelizes beautifully, imparting a smoky aroma and bold flavor. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 1 cedar plank, soaked for at least 1 hour (or wooden cutting board/plank as substitute)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup (grade B preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt to taste (sea salt flakes recommended)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 60 minutes to prevent burning and infuse smoky flavor. If short on time, soak in hot water for 30 minutes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until glossy and well combined.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high (about 375°F / 190°C) or oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place skin-side down on the soaked cedar plank.
  5. Brush the top of each fillet generously with the maple Dijon glaze. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  6. Place the cedar plank with salmon directly on the grill grates or in the oven.
  7. Cook for 15-20 minutes depending on thickness (about 1 inch / 2.5 cm thick), until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The glaze should be caramelized but not burnt.
  8. Remove the plank carefully using tongs or oven mitts. Let salmon rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
  9. Sprinkle with freshly chopped dill or parsley before serving.

Notes

Soak the cedar plank for at least 1 hour to avoid burning. If glaze starts to burn, lower heat or tent with foil. Use skin-on fillets for best texture. Let salmon rest after cooking to keep it juicy. For oven baking, place soaked plank on a baking sheet to catch drips.

Nutrition

Keywords: cedar plank salmon, maple Dijon glaze, grilled salmon, easy salmon recipe, smoky salmon, healthy salmon, quick dinner, weeknight meal