If you’re looking for a delicious and impressive way to cook salmon, look no further than cedar plank grilling. This cooking method infuses the fish with a rich smoky flavor and ensures a perfectly moist and tender result. While traditionally cooked on charcoal grills, you can also achieve fantastic results on a gas grill.

To get started, you’ll need a cedar plank that has been soaked in water for at least 1-2 hours. Soaking the plank prevents it from catching fire and helps to infuse the salmon with a subtle cedar aroma. Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F to 450°F (200°C to 230°C).

Season your salmon fillets with salt and pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. Then, place the soaked cedar plank directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Allow the plank to heat up for about 5 minutes until it starts to lightly smoke. This will create a natural aromatic smoky flavor.

Once the plank is heated, carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets directly on top of the plank. Close the lid and let the salmon cook undisturbed for about 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The cedar plank will help to keep the fish moist and prevent it from sticking to the grill.

After the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness, carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using heat-resistant gloves or tongs. Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving. The result will be a perfectly cooked and flavorful salmon that is sure to impress your guests.

Pro tip: The cedar plank can be reused several times, so be sure to let it cool completely before cleaning. Simply rinse it with water and a small amount of mild soap, then allow it to air dry. Store the plank in a cool, dry place until your next grilling adventure.

Preparation for Grilling Cedar Plank Salmon on Gas Grill

Grilling cedar plank salmon on a gas grill is a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy this popular fish. Before you start cooking, it’s important to properly prepare your salmon and cedar plank. Follow these steps for a successful grilling experience:

1. Soak the cedar plank:

To prevent the cedar plank from catching fire during grilling, it needs to be soaked in water for at least 1 hour. Place the plank in a sink or large basin, and cover it with water. Use something heavy to weigh down the plank and ensure it is fully submerged.

2. Preheat the gas grill:

Before grilling, preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the salmon cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks.

3. Prepare the salmon:

While the grill is preheating, prepare the salmon by rinsing it under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or marinades. Let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Oil the cedar plank:

After the cedar plank has finished soaking, remove it from the water and pat it dry. Lightly brush olive oil on the surface of the plank to prevent the salmon from sticking.

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5. Place the salmon on the cedar plank:

Once the grill is preheated and the cedar plank is oiled, carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets on the cedar plank. Arrange them evenly, leaving some space between each fillet.

6. Grill the salmon:

Place the cedar plank with the salmon on the preheated gas grill. Cover the grill and cook the salmon for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Avoid flipping the salmon during cooking to prevent it from falling apart.

7. Serve and enjoy:

Once the salmon is fully cooked, carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using heat-resistant gloves or tongs. Transfer the salmon to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The cedar plank will infuse the salmon with a smoky, woodsy flavor that complements its natural richness.

With these simple preparation steps, you’ll be on your way to grilling delicious cedar plank salmon on a gas grill. Enjoy!

Choosing the Right Cedar Plank

When it comes to cooking cedar plank salmon on a gas grill, choosing the right cedar plank is essential for achieving the perfect flavor and cooking experience. Here are some tips to help you select the best cedar plank:

1. Cedar Type

There are different types of cedar wood available, including Western Red Cedar, Yellow Cedar, and Alaskan Cedar. Western Red Cedar is the most common and widely used for cooking salmon. It imparts a rich, aromatic flavor to the fish.

2. Size and Thickness

Choose a cedar plank that is large enough to accommodate your salmon fillets or whole fish. The plank should be thick enough to withstand the heat of the grill without warping or burning. The ideal thickness is around 1 inch.

3. Food-grade Cedar

Ensure that the cedar plank you choose is specifically labeled as “food-grade” or “safe for cooking.” Some cedar planks may be treated with chemicals or additives that are not suitable for direct contact with food.

4. Quality and Condition

Inspect the cedar plank for any signs of damage, such as cracks, splits, or mold. A good-quality cedar plank should be smooth, without any rough edges or splinters. It should also have a fresh, woodsy aroma.

5. Soaking the Plank

Prior to grilling, it is important to soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1-2 hours. This prevents the plank from catching fire on the grill and helps to create a moist cooking environment. You can add flavor to the soak by using water infused with herbs, citrus, or white wine.

By following these tips and selecting the right cedar plank, you can enhance the flavor of your cedar plank salmon and enjoy a delicious meal cooked on your gas grill.

Soaking the Cedar Plank

Before you start grilling your cedar plank salmon, it is important to soak the cedar plank in water. This step helps prevent the plank from catching fire and also adds moisture to the cooking process, resulting in a more flavorful and tender fish.

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To soak the cedar plank, follow these steps:

1. Choose a Cedar Plank

Ensure that you are using a food-safe cedar plank specifically designed for cooking. Look for planks that are untreated and do not contain any chemicals or additives.

2. Submerge the Cedar Plank

Fill a sink, large bowl, or baking dish with enough water to fully submerge the cedar plank. Make sure the water is cold or at room temperature.

3. Soak the Cedar Plank

Place the cedar plank in the water, ensuring that it is fully submerged. You may need to weigh down the plank with a heavy object to keep it submerged. Allow the plank to soak for at least 1 hour, but overnight soaking is even better as it ensures the plank is thoroughly saturated.

4. Remove and Drain

After soaking the cedar plank, remove it from the water and let it drain excess moisture. You can place it on a clean surface or use a towel to pat it dry gently. This step helps prevent excessive dripping or steam during grilling.

Once the cedar plank is soaked and drained, it is ready to be used for grilling your delicious salmon. Remember to always follow the safety guidelines and instructions provided with your specific cedar plank to ensure a successful and enjoyable grilling experience.

Preparing the Salmon Fillet

Before cooking the salmon, it’s important to prepare the fillet properly. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and perfectly cooked cedar plank salmon on the gas grill:

1. Start by selecting fresh salmon fillets from your local fish market or grocery store. Look for fillets that are firm, moist, and have a vibrant pink color.

2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help remove any excess moisture and ensure that the seasonings stick to the fish.

3. Check the fillets for any pin bones. Using a pair of needle-nose pliers or tweezers, gently grasp the bone and pull it out in the direction that it is pointing. Repeat this process for any remaining bones.

4. Place the prepared salmon fillets on a clean cutting board and season them generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Some popular options include dill, garlic powder, and lemon zest.

5. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil or melted butter over the seasoned fillets to help prevent sticking and add an extra layer of flavor.

6. Carefully transfer the seasoned salmon fillets onto the pre-soaked cedar plank, making sure to arrange them in a single layer without overcrowding the plank.

Now that the salmon fillets are prepared, you’re ready to move on to the next step of cooking them on the gas grill.

Seasoning the Salmon

Before grilling the salmon, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are some simple steps to season your cedar plank salmon:

1. Pat dry: Start by patting the salmon dry with paper towels. This will allow the seasoning to adhere better to the fish.

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2. Drizzle with olive oil: Brush both sides of the salmon with olive oil. This will help prevent the fish from sticking to the cedar plank.

3. Season with salt and pepper: Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over both sides of the salmon. This will add a basic seasoning that complements the natural flavors of the fish.

4. Add herbs and spices: To enhance the flavor of the salmon, you can add various herbs and spices such as dill, garlic powder, or lemon zest. Sprinkle these seasonings evenly over the fish.

5. Let it sit: Allow the seasoned salmon to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the fish, resulting in a more flavorful and delicious dish.

6. Optional marinade: If desired, you can also marinate the salmon in a mixture of your choice, such as a combination of soy sauce, maple syrup, and minced garlic. Simply place the salmon in the marinade and let it sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling.

By properly seasoning the salmon, you’ll ensure that it’s flavorful and delicious when cooked on the gas grill. The seasonings will enhance the natural taste of the fish, making it a mouthwatering dish for any occasion.

Q&A

What is cedar plank salmon?

Cedar plank salmon is a cooking method where a salmon fillet is placed on a soaked cedar plank and grilled on a gas grill. The cedar plank adds a smoky flavor to the salmon, making it a popular choice for grilling.

Why should I cook salmon on a cedar plank?

Cooking salmon on a cedar plank not only adds a delicious smoky flavor to the fish, but it also helps to keep the salmon moist and prevents it from sticking to the grill. The cedar plank acts as a natural barrier between the fish and the heat source, resulting in tender and flavorful salmon.

How do I prepare the cedar plank for cooking salmon?

To prepare the cedar plank, you will need to soak it in water for at least 1-2 hours before cooking. This will prevent the plank from catching fire on the grill. You can also add additional flavors to the plank by soaking it in wine, citrus juice, or a marinade of your choice.

Can I cook cedar plank salmon on a charcoal grill?

Yes, you can cook cedar plank salmon on a charcoal grill. Simply place the soaked cedar plank directly on the hot coals and allow it to heat up for a few minutes before adding the salmon fillet. The cooking process will be similar to using a gas grill.

What are some marinades or seasonings that work well with cedar plank salmon?

There are many marinades and seasonings that pair well with cedar plank salmon. Some popular options include a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper, as well as teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or a maple glaze. You can also add fresh herbs such as dill or rosemary for additional flavor.