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Perfect Cedar Plank Maple Glazed Salmon Fillets

cedar plank maple glazed salmon - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for juicy, flavorful salmon fillets cooked on cedar planks with a sweet maple glaze that caramelizes beautifully, delivering a smoky and tender fish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets, about 6 oz (170 g) each, preferably wild-caught
  • 2 untreated cedar planks, soaked in water for at least 1 hour
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (100% grade A)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional fresh herbs (dill or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

  1. Soak the cedar planks in cold water for at least 1 hour before cooking to prevent burning and allow gentle smoking. If short on time, soak in hot water for 30 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and slightly runny.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F) or set oven broiler to high with rack about 6 inches from heat source.
  4. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  5. Place soaked cedar plank on grill or baking sheet if using oven. Arrange salmon fillets skin-side down on the plank.
  6. Brush a generous layer of maple glaze over the top of each fillet, reserving some glaze for basting.
  7. Close grill lid or oven broiler and cook salmon for 12-15 minutes, basting once halfway through with remaining glaze. If flipping, cook 6-8 minutes per side.
  8. Check doneness with a meat thermometer aiming for 125-130°F internal temperature or until salmon flakes easily but remains moist.
  9. Remove cedar plank from heat and let salmon rest for 3-5 minutes.
  10. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired before serving.

Notes

Soaking cedar planks for at least 1 hour is essential to prevent burning and to impart a subtle smoky aroma. Avoid over-glazing to prevent flare-ups. If using an oven broiler, keep the door slightly open to avoid smoke buildup. Let salmon rest after cooking to redistribute juices. Cedar planks are best used once for safety and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cedar plank salmon, maple glazed salmon, grilled salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, smoky salmon, quick dinner, seafood recipe