5 Easy Steps to Cook Cedar Plank Salmon on a Gas Grill

Start by soaking your cedar plank in water for at least an hour to prevent it from catching fire. Next, prepare your salmon by patting it dry, seasoning, and adding any herbs or lemon slices you like. Preheat your gas grill to medium heat, around 375°F. Place the salmon skin-side down on the soaked plank, then grill with the lid closed for 15-20 minutes until it flakes easily. Keep the heat steady, and you’ll have a smoky, tender meal ready to serve. Discover more tips to perfect your grilling technique.

Soak the Cedar Plank

Before you start cooking, soak the cedar plank in water for at least one hour. This step is crucial because it prevents the plank from catching fire on the grill.

You can soak it in a shallow dish, sink, or even wrap it in a wet towel. To add extra flavor, try soaking the plank in apple juice, wine, or a mixture of water and herbs.

Make sure the entire plank is submerged or thoroughly soaked to maximize moisture absorption. After soaking, pat it dry slightly to avoid excessive dripping when you place it on the grill.

Proper soaking ensures your cedar plank will smolder, infusing your salmon with a delicious smoky aroma instead of burning up quickly.

Prepare the Salmon Fillet

Once you’ve soaked your cedar plank, you’ll want to prepare the salmon fillet by patting it dry and trimming any excess fat or skin. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures even cooking.

Next, check for any pin bones by running your fingers along the flesh; use tweezers to remove any you find.

Season the fillet simply with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, or add your favorite herbs and spices for extra flavor. If you like, you can also place thin lemon slices or fresh dill on top.

Make sure the fillet is evenly sized so it cooks uniformly on the cedar plank.

Proper prep sets the stage for perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon.

Preheat Your Gas Grill

As you get ready to cook, preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range ensures your cedar plank salmon cooks evenly, absorbing smoky flavors without burning the wood.

Turn on all burners and close the lid, allowing the grill to reach the desired heat efficiently. Use a grill thermometer if your grill doesn’t have a built-in one to monitor the temperature accurately.

While the grill warms, soak your cedar plank in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent it from catching fire.

Preheating creates a stable cooking environment, so avoid opening the lid frequently, which causes heat loss.

Once the grill reaches temperature, you’re ready for the next step—placing the salmon on the cedar plank.

Place the Salmon on the Cedar Plank

While your cedar plank soaks, prepare the salmon by patting it dry and seasoning it to your taste.

Once the plank is ready and your grill is preheated, place the salmon skin-side down directly onto the soaked cedar plank. Make sure the fillet fits well on the plank without hanging over the edges to prevent flare-ups.

Position the salmon so it lies flat and stable, ensuring even cooking. If you like, add a few lemon slices or herbs on top for extra flavor.

The soaked cedar plank acts as a barrier, infusing the salmon with a smoky aroma while protecting it from direct grill heat.

This step sets the stage for a tender, flavorful dish cooked gently over your gas grill.

Grill and Monitor for Perfect Doneness

Although grilling times can vary, you’ll want to place the cedar plank with the salmon on the preheated grill over medium heat and close the lid. Let it cook gently for about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness.

Keep an eye on the grill temperature, maintaining it around 350°F to prevent burning the plank or overcooking the fish. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this lets heat escape and disrupts even cooking.

To check doneness, use a fork to see if the salmon flakes easily and appears opaque throughout. When the edges start to turn golden and the fish feels firm but still moist, it’s ready.

Remove the plank carefully using heat-resistant gloves, and let the salmon rest a few minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Reuse a Cedar Plank for Multiple Grilling Sessions?

You can reuse a cedar plank a few times, but it loses flavor and weakens after each use. Make sure to soak it well and check for cracks to avoid burning or splintering during grilling sessions.

What Type of Cedar Wood Is Best for Grilling Salmon?

You’ll want to use untreated Western Red Cedar for grilling salmon. It’s aromatic, safe, and imparts a wonderful smoky flavor. Avoid treated or painted wood, as those can release harmful chemicals during cooking.

How Do I Prevent the Cedar Plank From Catching Fire?

You can prevent the cedar plank from catching fire by soaking it in water for at least an hour before grilling, keeping the grill temperature moderate, and placing the plank away from direct flames to avoid flare-ups.

Can I Add Marinade or Seasoning Directly on the Cedar Plank?

Yes, you can add marinade or seasoning directly on the cedar plank, but keep it light to avoid flare-ups. Focus more on seasoning the salmon itself for the best flavor and to prevent the plank from burning.

Are There Alternatives to Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon?

You can use alder, maple, or hickory planks as great alternatives. If planks aren’t available, try a grill basket or foil packets to keep your salmon moist and flavorful without direct grill contact.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to soak the cedar plank, prep your salmon, and grill it perfectly on a gas grill, you’re ready to impress with this simple, flavorful dish. Just remember to keep an eye on the salmon while it cooks to get that ideal doneness. With these easy steps, you’ll enjoy juicy, smoky salmon every time. So fire up your grill, follow the steps, and savor the delicious results!