Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon with Garlic Lemon and Dill: 7 Bold Reasons to Try This Backyard Favorite

Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon with Garlic Lemon and Dill is a game-changer for home cooks who love restaurant-quality meals with backyard simplicity. Infused with smoky cedar essence, kissed with lemon, and finished with fragrant dill and garlic, this grilled salmon recipe is packed with flavor while staying healthy and easy to prepare.

Perfect for summer barbecues, special dinners, or even quick weeknight meals, this method transforms fresh salmon into a tender, flaky, flavor-loaded masterpiece. Whether you’re a grill pro or just starting out, you’ll love how easy it is to impress with this dish.

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Introduction to Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon with Garlic Lemon and Dill

Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon with Garlic Lemon and Dill isn’t just another grilled fish recipe—it’s a technique that infuses flavor, locks in moisture, and elevates the experience of cooking outdoors. The cedar plank adds a subtle, smoky aroma that blends beautifully with the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of dill, and the punch of fresh garlic.

Plus, the presentation is unbeatable. Serve it right off the cedar plank with a garnish of lemon slices and dill sprigs, and you’ve got a show-stopping centerpiece that smells as good as it looks.

Why You’ll Love This Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe

Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

• Smoky cedar flavor infuses the fish while it grills
• Moist and tender thanks to plank cooking
• Minimal cleanup with no fish sticking to grill grates
• Restaurant-quality presentation with little effort
• Healthy and rich in omega-3s
• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
• Perfectly seasoned with lemon, garlic, and dill

For another grill-worthy favorite, try our Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs—the perfect sweet and savory companion.

Health Benefits of Salmon, Lemon, and Dill

Salmon is one of the most nutrient-dense proteins available. It’s packed with:

• Omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health
• Lean protein to fuel your muscles
• Vitamin B12, D, and selenium

Paired with antioxidant-rich lemon and digestion-friendly dill, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.

What You Need: Ingredients for Garlic Lemon Dill Salmon

Here’s what you’ll need to serve 4:

• 1 (2-3 lb) salmon fillet, skin-on, center cut
• 1 cedar plank, soaked in water for 2 hours
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: extra lemon wedges and dill sprigs for garnish

Essential Tools for Grilling on a Cedar Plank

Make sure you have:

• Charcoal or gas grill
• Cedar plank (untreated, food-safe)
• Tongs
• Grill-safe spatula
• Aluminum foil (optional, for indirect cooking)
• Meat thermometer (recommended)

Step-by-Step: How to Grill Salmon on a Cedar Plank

Step 1: Soak your cedar plank

Submerge the plank in water for at least 2 hours. Weigh it down with a heavy bowl so it stays submerged. This prevents the wood from catching fire and helps it smolder gently, releasing its smoky flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the salmon

Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Rub it with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Lay lemon slices across the top and sprinkle with dill.

Step 3: Preheat the grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F). If using charcoal, set up for indirect heat. For gas grills, turn one burner off and place the plank on that side.

Step 4: Grill the salmon

Place the soaked plank on the grill grates. Close the lid and heat the plank for about 5 minutes. Then, lay the salmon skin-side down on the hot plank. Cover and grill for 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness, or until internal temp reaches 135–140°F.

Step 5: Remove and rest

Carefully remove the plank with tongs or a spatula. Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving directly on the plank or transferring to a platter.

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Tips for Flavorful, Moist, and Smoky Salmon Every Time

• Use thick-cut, center fillets for even cooking
• Don’t overcook—pull it at 135°F and let it rest to 145°F
• Try indirect heat to prevent burning the plank
• Use a meat thermometer for consistent results
• Garnish just before serving to keep herbs fresh

Want a quick side while your salmon grills? Try Mason Jar Greek Salad with Chickpeas or Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream for a sweet finish.

Variations and Seasoning Swaps

You can easily adapt the flavors:

• Use thyme, rosemary, or parsley instead of dill
• Add paprika or chili flakes for heat
• Swap garlic for shallots or onion powder
• Use lime or orange slices instead of lemon
• Top with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a glaze effect

Feeling adventurous? Serve it over Coconut Cream Pancakes for a tropical brunch twist!

Common Grilling Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping plank soak time – causes dangerous flare-ups
• Placing the plank over direct flame – leads to burning
• Overcooking the salmon – results in dryness
• Not seasoning enough – salmon can take bold flavors
• Moving the salmon mid-grill – let it cook untouched

Keep the lid closed while grilling to maintain even temperature and maximum flavor infusion.

How to Serve Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon

Serve it with:

• Steamed vegetables
• Grilled asparagus
• Brown rice or quinoa
• Cucumber dill yogurt sauce
• Warm pita or flatbread

Slice it directly from the plank at the table for a rustic, elegant touch.

Best Non-Alcoholic Drinks and Side Pairings

Pair with:

• Cucumber mint lemonade
• Sparkling lime water
• Herbal iced teas like hibiscus or chamomile
• Fresh tomato gazpacho as a cold starter
• Watermelon basil cooler for a refreshing sip

Add a side of Chili Lime Roasted Chickpeas for crunch and protein.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in foil in the oven at 300°F until warmed
• Flake into salads, wraps, or grain bowls for meal prep
• Avoid microwaving to maintain texture

Make a salmon wrap with Garlic Flat Bread and leftover salmon for an easy next-day lunch.

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Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon FAQs

Can I reuse cedar planks?
If they’re not too charred or cracked, yes—rinse, scrub, and dry thoroughly.

Can I bake this recipe in the oven?
Yes! Bake at 375°F on a soaked cedar plank on a baking sheet.

Do I have to use skin-on salmon?
Skin helps hold the fillet together, but skinless works too with extra care.

What kind of cedar plank should I buy?
Use untreated, food-safe cedar planks made for grilling. Avoid construction wood.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes—season the salmon ahead of time and refrigerate. Grill just before serving.

Final Thoughts: A Restaurant-Worthy Dish at Home

This Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon with Garlic Lemon and Dill recipe offers bold, smoky flavor, tender texture, and elegant presentation—all with backyard-friendly simplicity. It’s the perfect combination of healthy, flavorful, and downright satisfying.

Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a solo summer dinner, this dish will make you feel like a five-star chef. Give it a try and taste the magic of cedar, lemon, and dill in every bite.

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