Cedar Plank Salmon with Honey Glaze: A Flavorful Delight

If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to prepare at home, Cedar Plank Salmon with Honey Glaze is the perfect dish. The smoky essence of cedar, combined with the sweet and savory honey glaze, creates a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using the oven, this recipe delivers a beautifully caramelized salmon with incredible depth of flavor.

Why Cook Salmon on a Cedar Plank?

Cooking salmon on a cedar plank infuses the fish with a subtle smokiness while keeping it moist and tender. The plank also prevents the salmon from sticking to the grill grates, making cleanup easier. Plus, it adds a rich, woodsy aroma that enhances the overall taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this simple yet flavorful recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Salmon:

• 1 large salmon fillet (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cedar plank (soaked in water for at least 1 hour)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Honey Glaze:

• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Cedar Plank

Before cooking, soak the cedar plank in water for at least one hour (or overnight for best results). This prevents the wood from burning on the grill.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and red pepper flakes. This glaze adds a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and umami to the salmon.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle it with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to enhance its natural flavor.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F). If using an oven, preheat to 400°F.

Step 5: Grill the Salmon

• Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill grates for about 3 minutes until it starts to lightly smoke.
• Carefully place the salmon fillet skin-side down on the plank.
• Brush a generous layer of the honey glaze over the salmon.
• Close the lid and grill for 12-15 minutes, basting with more glaze halfway through.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for well-done.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully transfer the salmon from the plank to a serving dish. Drizzle with any remaining honey glaze and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges. Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

FAQs

1. Do I have to soak the cedar plank?

Yes, soaking the plank is essential to prevent it from catching fire on the grill. It also helps generate flavorful steam that infuses the salmon with a smoky aroma.

2. Can I cook cedar plank salmon in the oven?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the soaked plank on a baking sheet before cooking. Bake for about 15-20 minutes.

3. What type of salmon is best for this recipe?

Wild-caught salmon, such as sockeye or king salmon, works best due to its rich flavor and firm texture.

4. Can I reuse a cedar plank?

If the plank isn’t too charred, you can reuse it. Scrub it clean with warm water and let it dry completely before storing. However, for the best flavor, using a fresh plank is recommended.

5. What other glazes can I try?

You can experiment with maple syrup, balsamic glaze, or even a teriyaki sauce for different flavor profiles.

Conclusion

Cedar Plank Salmon with Honey Glaze is a foolproof way to enjoy perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon at home. The combination of smoky cedar, rich salmon, and a sticky honey glaze makes this dish a standout for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you grill it outdoors or bake it in the oven, this recipe delivers a deliciously satisfying meal every time.

Save this recipe and try it for your next cookout or family dinner. Happy cooking! 🍽️🔥