Cedar Plank Garlic Dill Salmon (Printable)

Grilled salmon fillets on cedar planks with garlic, dill, and lemon for fresh, smoky flavors.

# What You Need:

→ Salmon Fillets

01 - 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 ounces each)

→ Marinade and Seasonings

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped plus extra for garnish
05 - 1 lemon, zested and juiced
06 - 1 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ For Grilling

08 - 2 untreated food-safe cedar planks (each about 12 x 6 inches)
09 - Lemon slices, for garnish

# How-To:

01 - Submerge cedar planks in cold water for at least 1 hour, up to 2 hours. Place a weight on top to keep them fully immersed.
02 - Combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, and ground black pepper in a mixing bowl.
03 - Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with marinade, reserving some for basting during grilling.
04 - Preheat outdoor grill to medium-high (400°F). Place soaked cedar planks on the grill grates, close lid, and heat for 2 minutes until planks begin to smoke.
05 - Arrange salmon fillets skin-side down on cedar planks. Close lid and grill for 12–15 minutes, basting once with reserved marinade, until the salmon is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
06 - Transfer salmon from planks. Garnish with extra fresh dill and lemon slices. Serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The smoky aroma from the cedar planks feels like a secret weapon for summer grilling.
  • It’s quick to prepare and always tastes special enough for both weeknights and weekend celebrations.
02 -
  • Once, I forgot to soak the planks long enough and ended up fighting unexpected flames—never skip this step!
  • Basting the salmon halfway through makes the difference between a glossy, flavorful crust and dull drizzle.
03 -
  • Always preheat the cedar planks to start the smoky flavor before adding the salmon.
  • Marinate the fish at least 10 minutes for the garlic and dill to infuse properly.
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