Salmon is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. Cooking it on a cedar plank adds a unique smoky flavor that takes this dish to a whole new level. And what’s even better is that you can easily cook cedar plank salmon in an air fryer. The air fryer will cook the salmon evenly, ensuring it’s moist and perfectly cooked every time.

Why cook salmon on a cedar plank?

There are several reasons why cooking salmon on a cedar plank is a great idea. Firstly, the cedar plank adds a smoky flavor to the salmon, giving it a rich and intense taste. Secondly, cooking salmon on a plank helps to keep it moist and prevents it from drying out. The plank acts as a barrier between the salmon and the hot air, allowing the fish to cook gently and retain its moisture. Finally, cooking salmon on a cedar plank gives it a beautiful presentation. Placing the plank on the table with the salmon still on it creates a wow factor that will impress your guests.

How to cook cedar plank salmon in an air fryer

To cook cedar plank salmon in an air fryer, follow these simple steps:

  1. Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  3. Remove the cedar plank from the water and pat it dry.
  4. Place the salmon fillet on the cedar plank and season it with your favorite herbs and spices.
  5. Place the cedar plank with the salmon in the preheated air fryer.
  6. Cook the salmon for about 12-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  7. Once cooked, carefully remove the cedar plank from the air fryer using oven mitts.
  8. Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cedar plank salmon cooked in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious and healthy dish. The cedar plank adds a smoky flavor and keeps the salmon moist and tender. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

Preparing the Cedar Plank

Before you can start cooking your salmon on a cedar plank in the air fryer, you need to make sure the plank is properly prepared. This will help enhance the flavor of the salmon and prevent it from sticking to the plank.

1. Soak the Cedar Plank

The first step is to soak the cedar plank in water. This will prevent it from catching fire in the air fryer and also infuse the salmon with a subtle smoky flavor.

Fill a large container or sink with enough water to completely submerge the cedar plank. Place the plank in the water and weigh it down with a heavy object, such as a plate or a can of food, to ensure it stays fully submerged. Let the plank soak for at least 1 hour, but overnight soaking is even better.

2. Dry the Cedar Plank

After soaking, remove the cedar plank from the water and pat it dry with a clean towel. It’s important to dry the plank thoroughly to ensure it gets hot enough in the air fryer to cook the salmon properly.

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3. Season the Cedar Plank

Before placing the salmon on the cedar plank, you can add seasonings to enhance the flavor. Popular options include sprinkling the plank with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite herbs and spices. This will impart additional flavor into the salmon as it cooks.

Tip: For a citrusy twist, you can also rub the plank with lemon or lime zest.

Once the cedar plank is soaked, dried, and seasoned, it’s ready to be used for cooking your salmon in the air fryer. Simply follow the cooking instructions for cedar plank salmon in your air fryer recipe, and enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal!

Soaking the Cedar Plank

Before cooking salmon on a cedar plank in the air fryer, it is important to soak the wood to prevent it from catching fire and infuse the fish with a delicious smoky flavour.

Step 1: Choose a Cedar Plank

Start by selecting a cedar plank specifically designed for cooking. Make sure it is food-grade and untreated to avoid any chemicals contaminating the salmon.

Step 2: Submerge the Plank in Water

Fill a large container or sink with enough water to completely submerge the cedar plank. Place the plank in the water, ensuring it is fully covered, and allow it to soak for at least 1-2 hours. This process helps prevent the plank from catching fire during cooking.

Step 3: Add Weight (Optional)

If the cedar plank tends to float, you can place a weight on top to keep it submerged. This will ensure that the entire plank absorbs water evenly.

Step 4: Remove and Pat Dry

After the soaking time is completed, remove the cedar plank from the water and pat it dry with a clean towel. Excess moisture can cause steam, preventing the wood from imparting a smoky flavour to the salmon.

Now, your cedar plank is ready to be used for cooking delicious salmon in the air fryer!

Preparing the Salmon

Before you start cooking your cedar plank salmon in the air fryer, you need to prepare the salmon itself. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose a fresh salmon fillet

Start by selecting a fresh salmon fillet from your local fish market or grocery store. Look for a fillet that is firm to the touch and has a vibrant pink color. It’s important to choose high-quality salmon to ensure the best flavor and texture.

2. Season the salmon

Next, season the salmon with your desired spices and herbs. A simple combination of salt, pepper, and lemon juice works well, but feel free to experiment with other seasonings like dill, garlic, or paprika. Rub the seasoning onto both sides of the salmon to ensure even flavor distribution.

3. Soak the cedar plank

Soak a cedar plank in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent it from catching fire in the air fryer. This step is essential as it adds a smoky aroma to the salmon while ensuring the plank doesn’t burn during the cooking process.

4. Prepare the air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to the desired temperature, usually around 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness of the salmon.

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Seasoning the Salmon

Before cooking the salmon on the cedar plank in the air fryer, it’s important to season it to enhance the flavors. Here’s how you can season the salmon:

Seasoning Description
Salt Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on both sides of the salmon fillets. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the fish.
Black Pepper Add a dash of black pepper to give the salmon a mild spiciness and warmth.
Garlic Powder Dust the salmon with garlic powder for a subtle garlicky flavor.
Paprika Sprinkle paprika on the salmon to add a smoky and slightly sweet flavor.
Dried Dill Lightly sprinkle dried dill over the salmon to give it a hint of freshness.
Olive Oil Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the seasoned salmon to keep it moist and prevent it from sticking to the cedar plank.
Lemon Juice Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon to add a tangy and citrusy flavor.

Once you have seasoned the salmon, make sure to gently rub the seasonings into the fish to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Let the salmon sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate before cooking it on the cedar plank in the air fryer.

Cooking the Salmon in the Air Fryer

Once the cedar plank is ready and the salmon fillets have marinated, it’s time to cook the salmon in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Place the marinated salmon fillets directly onto the cedar plank. Make sure not to overcrowd the fillets as they need space for proper air circulation.

Carefully transfer the cedar plank with the salmon fillets onto the air fryer basket. Cook the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Halfway through the cooking time, open the air fryer and baste the salmon fillets with any remaining marinade for added flavor.

Once the salmon is cooked, remove the cedar plank from the air fryer using oven mitts or tongs. Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful.

Garnish the cooked cedar plank salmon with fresh herbs like dill or parsley, and serve it with your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy the delicious and flavorful cedar plank salmon cooked to perfection in the air fryer!

Serving and Enjoying the Cedar Plank Salmon

Once your cedar plank salmon is cooked to perfection in the air fryer, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious dish. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your cedar plank salmon:

1. Presentation

When plating the cedar plank salmon, try to create an appealing presentation. Place the salmon fillet on a large serving dish, garnish with fresh herbs such as dill, and add a squeeze of lemon for an extra pop of flavor and color.

2. Accompaniments

Cedar plank salmon pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. You can also serve some crusty bread or rice on the side to complement the flavors.

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3. Wine Pairing

If you enjoy a glass of wine with your meal, consider pairing your cedar plank salmon with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity and fruity flavors of these wines can nicely complement the rich flavors of the salmon.

4. Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, they can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Cedar plank salmon makes a great addition to salads, sandwiches, or omelets. Simply flake the leftover salmon and incorporate it into your favorite dishes for a quick and easy meal.

Remember to relish the smoky flavors and moist texture that cooking cedar plank salmon in the air fryer provides. Bon appétit!

Q&A

What is cedar plank salmon?

Cedar plank salmon is a cooking method where the salmon is cooked on a wooden cedar plank, giving it a smoky and cedar-like flavor.

Can you cook cedar plank salmon in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook cedar plank salmon in an air fryer. The air fryer will help cook the salmon evenly and give it a crispy texture.

How do you prepare cedar plank salmon for cooking in an air fryer?

To prepare cedar plank salmon for cooking in an air fryer, soak the cedar plank in water for about 1-2 hours. Then, season the salmon with your preferred spices and place it on the cedar plank. Preheat the air fryer to the desired temperature, and cook the salmon on the cedar plank in the air fryer for the recommended cooking time.

What temperature and cooking time should be used for cooking cedar plank salmon in an air fryer?

The temperature and cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the salmon and personal preference. However, a general guideline is to cook the cedar plank salmon in the air fryer at around 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes.

What are some tips for cooking cedar plank salmon in an air fryer?

Some tips for cooking cedar plank salmon in an air fryer are: 1) Soak the cedar plank in water to prevent it from catching fire. 2) Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking. 3) Season the salmon with your preferred spices for added flavor. 4) Place the cedar plank with the salmon in the middle or lower rack of the air fryer for optimal cooking. 5) Monitor the cooking time and adjust as needed to prevent overcooking.

What is cedar plank salmon?

Cedar plank salmon is a method of cooking salmon on a cedar plank, which infuses the fish with a smoky flavor. The plank is soaked in water, then placed in the air fryer, and the salmon is cooked on top of it.

Can I use a different type of wood plank?

While cedar is traditional for cooking plank salmon, you can experiment with other types of wood planks, such as alder or hickory, for different flavors.