Cedar Plank Salmon Oven Recipe 2023

Best Cedar Plank Salmon Oven

Looking for a healthy and flavorful way to enjoy salmon? Look no further than cedar plank salmon cooked in the oven. This popular cooking technique imparts a smoky flavor to the fish, making it a hit with seafood lovers everywhere.

But how do you ensure that your cedar plank salmon turns out perfectly every time? The thickness of the cedar plank is crucial, as it helps to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. And don’t forget to soak the plank in water before cooking – this will help prevent it from catching fire in the oven.

Not only is cedar plank salmon delicious, but it’s also good for you. Packed with protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, this fish is a great addition to any diet.

So why not try your hand at cooking up some cedar plank salmon tonight? With these tips and techniques, you’re sure to impress your dinner guests (or just yourself!) with a tasty and nutritious meal.

Benefits of Using Cedar Planks for Cooking Salmon

Unique Smoky Flavor

Cedar planks add a unique smoky flavor to salmon that is simply irresistible. The wood imparts a delicate, sweet aroma that enhances the natural taste of the fish. The smokiness is not overpowering but rather subtle, making it perfect for those who prefer a milder flavor. Cedar planks can be used with other types of fish and meats to create a variety of delicious dishes.

Moist and Tender Fish

Using cedar planks for cooking salmon helps to keep the fish moist and tender. The wood absorbs moisture from the fish as it cooks, creating steam that keeps the flesh juicy and prevents it from drying out. This method of cooking also allows the salmon to cook evenly without sticking to the grill or pan.

Healthier Alternative

Cedar planks are a healthier alternative to cooking salmon on a grill or in a pan. When salmon is grilled directly on grates or cooked in oil on a pan, fat drips down causing flare-ups and charring which produces harmful carcinogens. By using cedar planks, you can avoid this risk altogether while still enjoying all the health benefits of eating salmon such as omega-3 fatty acids.

Easy and Convenient

Cooking salmon on cedar planks is an easy and convenient way to prepare a delicious meal. Simply soak your cedar grilling plank in water for at least an hour before use, then place your seasoned salmon fillet onto the plank and bake it in your oven at 350°F until done (about 15-20 minutes). It’s that simple! No need for messy cleanups or complicated techniques.

Where To Buy Cedar Planks For Cooking Salmon

You can find cedar grilling planks at most grocery stores or online retailers like Amazon.com or Walmart.com. Make sure you choose untreated wood planks since treated ones may contain chemicals that can be harmful when heated.

Ingredients and Preparation for Cedar Plank Baked Salmon

Ingredients Needed for Cedar Plank Baked Salmon

Cedar plank salmon is an easy and delicious way to prepare salmon. To make this dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cedar plank (soaked in water for at least 2 hours)
• 1 pound of salmon fillet
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder or minced garlic

How to Prepare the Salmon Rub for Added Flavor

To add flavor to your salmon, you can create a simple rub using garlic powder or minced garlic, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Here’s how:

1. In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Rub the mixture onto both sides of the salmon fillet.

Simple Steps to Bake the Perfect Salmon Using Cedar Plank

Now that you have your ingredients ready let’s move on to baking your perfect cedar plank salmon.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Place the soaked cedar plank onto a baking sheet.
3. Place the prepared salmon fillet onto the cedar plank skin-side down.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F).
5. Once done remove from heat and allow it to rest for about five minutes before serving.

That’s it! You now have perfectly baked cedar plank salmon with added flavor from your homemade rub.

Where to Buy Salmon on Cedar Plank?

You can buy cedar planks at most grocery stores or online retailers such as Amazon or Walmart. When buying a cedar plank make sure it is food-grade quality so that it does not contain any chemicals or harmful substances that can be transferred to your food.

You can choose between wild-caught and farm-raised. Wild-caught salmon is considered to be healthier and more sustainable, but it can be more expensive. Farm-raised salmon is cheaper but may contain more toxins due to their living conditions. You can buy salmon at your local grocery store, fish market, or online retailers such as Sizzlefish or Vital Choice.

Brining and Baking Tips for Cedar Plank Oven Salmon

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy way to prepare salmon, consider using a cedar plank in the oven. Not only does it infuse the fish with a smoky flavor, but it also keeps it moist and tender. However, to ensure that your cedar plank salmon turns out perfectly every time, there are a few brining and baking tips you should keep in mind.

The Benefits of Brining

Brining is the process of soaking food in a saltwater solution before cooking. This technique can be especially beneficial when preparing salmon on a cedar plank because it helps to keep the fish moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.

To make a basic brine solution for your cedar plank salmon, combine water, salt, and sugar in a large bowl or container. For every quart of water, use 1/4 cup of kosher salt and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder or black pepper if desired.

Place the salmon fillets in the brine solution and refrigerate for at least one hour (or up to four hours). When ready to cook, remove the fish from the brine solution and pat dry with paper towels.

Preparing Your Cedar Plank

Before using your cedar plank in the oven, you’ll need to soak it in water for at least an hour. This step is important because it helps prevent the wood from catching fire during cooking.

To soak your cedar plank, simply place it in a large container filled with enough water to cover it completely. You can also add some white wine or apple cider vinegar to the water for added flavor if desired.

Once your cedar plank has soaked for at least an hour (or up to four hours), remove it from the water and pat dry with paper towels. Place it on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.

Baking Your Cedar Plank Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400°F before placing the salmon on the cedar plank. If desired, you can brush the salmon with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle it with additional seasonings such as dill or lemon zest.

Bake the cedar plank salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes per inch of thickness. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F when fully cooked.

When done, remove the cedar plank from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve the salmon directly on the cedar plank for a rustic presentation, or transfer it to a serving platter if preferred.

Soaking Cedar Planks for Oven Baked Salmon: Two Methods

Using a cedar plank is one of the best ways to infuse flavor and keep the fish moist. However, before placing the salmon on the plank and in the oven, it’s essential to soak the cedar plank first. Soaking helps prevent the wood from burning and allows it to release its natural flavors into the fish.

There are two methods for soaking cedar planks: soaking in water or soaking in other liquids like wine or beer. Both methods work well, but there are some differences between them.

Method 1: Soaking Cedar Planks in Water

Soaking cedar planks in water is the most common method and works well for most recipes. Here’s how to do it:

1. Submerge your cedar plank completely in a large container filled with water.
2. Allow it to soak for at least 1 hour, but longer if possible (up to 4 hours).
3. Remove from water and pat dry with a towel.

Soaking time can vary depending on how thick your cedar plank is and how much flavor you want to infuse into your salmon. A longer soaking time will enhance the aroma of the wood and make your salmon taste even better.

Method 2: Soaking Cedar Planks in Other Liquids

If you’re feeling adventurous, try soaking your cedar planks in other liquids like wine or beer. This method adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Choose a liquid that pairs well with salmon such as white wine, apple cider vinegar, or even bourbon.
2. Submerge your cedar plank completely in a large container filled with your chosen liquid.
3. Allow it to soak for at least 1 hour, but longer if possible (up to 4 hours).
4. Remove from the liquid and pat dry with a towel.

Soaking cedar planks in other liquids is a great way to experiment with different flavors. For example, soaking in bourbon will give your salmon a smoky flavor, while apple cider vinegar will add a tangy kick.

No matter which method you choose, always make sure to soak your cedar plank for at least 1 hour before using it. This will prevent the wood from burning and ensure that your salmon comes out perfectly cooked every time.

Shopping List: Ingredients for Baked Cedar Plank Salmon

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dinner option, baked cedar plank salmon is an excellent choice. This dish is easy to prepare, and it’s packed with flavor. However, before you start cooking, you’ll need to make sure that you have all of the necessary ingredients on hand.

Ingredients

The first thing that you’ll need is fresh salmon fillets. When shopping for salmon, look for fillets with the skin side intact. This will help keep the fish moist during cooking and prevent it from sticking to the cedar plank.

In addition to salmon fillets, here are some other ingredients that you’ll need:

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Salmon rub

You can purchase pre-made salmon rub at your local grocery store or make your own at home using a blend of herbs and spices. Here’s a simple recipe that you can use:

Homemade Salmon Rub Recipe

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Mix all of the ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined.

Soaking the Cedar Plank

Before using the cedar plank in the oven, it’s essential to soak it in water for at least an hour. This will prevent the wood from catching fire during cooking and ensure that your salmon stays moist.

To soak the cedar plank:

1. Fill a large container with enough water to fully submerge the plank.
2. Place the plank in the water.
3. Weigh down the plank with something heavy (like a bowl) to keep it fully submerged.
4. Let the plank soak for at least an hour.

Recipe Review: What I Love About This Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe

If you’re a seafood lover, then this cedar plank salmon recipe is a must-try. The cedar flavor adds a unique smoky taste to the salmon, making it stand out from other recipes.

Cedar Flavor

One of the best things about using a cedar plank for salmon is the unique flavor it imparts on the fish. The wood’s aroma infuses into the salmon as it cooks, creating a smoky flavor that cannot be replicated with any other method.

The cedar also helps keep the moisture in during cooking, ensuring that your salmon stays juicy and tender. Plus, using a plank eliminates the need for oil or butter in cooking, making it a healthier option than frying or sautéing.

Perfect Recipe

This recipe is easy to follow and produces perfectly cooked salmon every time. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 cedar plank (soaked in water for at least an hour)
• 2 lbs of fresh salmon fillets
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Place your soaked cedar plank on a baking sheet.
3. Season both sides of your salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place your seasoned fillets onto the cedar plank skin-side down.
5. Bake in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until fully cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving with lemon wedges.

The result? Perfectly cooked salmon with crispy skin on top and juicy flesh underneath.

Why You’ll Love Cedar Plank Baked Salmon

Aside from its delicious flavor and ease of preparation, there are several reasons why you’ll love this cedar plank salmon recipe:

• Health benefits: Baking salmon on a cedar plank is a healthy cooking method that doesn’t require any added fat. Plus, salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients.
• Versatility: This recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. You can add different seasonings or marinades to the salmon before baking, or even top it with a glaze or sauce after cooking.
• Impressive presentation: Serving salmon on a cedar plank makes for an impressive presentation at dinner parties or special occasions.
• Eco-friendly: Using a cedar plank for cooking is an eco-friendly option since it eliminates the need for aluminum foil or other disposable materials.

Enjoying Delicious Cedar Plank Salmon from Your Oven

In conclusion, cooking salmon on cedar planks in your oven is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this popular fish. By using cedar planks, you can add a smoky flavor to the salmon while keeping it moist and tender. Brining the salmon before baking it on the cedar plank will enhance its flavor even more.

To prepare cedar plank baked salmon, you need a few simple ingredients such as fresh salmon fillets, cedar planks, salt, sugar, and some herbs. Before baking the salmon, soak the cedar planks in water for a few hours or overnight to prevent them from burning in the oven.

One of the benefits of using cedar planks for cooking salmon is that they are reusable and eco-friendly. You can use them several times before they wear out. Moreover, baking salmon on cedar planks is easy and requires minimal cleanup.

If you’re looking for a delicious recipe for baked cedar plank salmon, try our recipe review section where we highlight what we love about this particular recipe.

Overall, cooking cedar plank salmon in your oven is an excellent way to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills while enjoying a healthy meal.

FAQs

1. Can I reuse cedar planks?

Yes! Cedar planks are reusable and can be used several times before they wear out. Just make sure to clean them thoroughly after each use.

2. How long do I need to soak my cedar planks?

You should soak your cedar planks in water for at least one hour or up to overnight before using them to bake salmon in the oven.

3. What temperature should I set my oven when baking cedar plank salmon?

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking your seasoned salmon fillets on soaked wooden boards.

4. What other types of fish can I cook on cedar planks?

You can use cedar planks to cook other types of fish such as trout, halibut, and tilapia.

5. Can I cook vegetables on cedar planks too?

Yes! Cedar planks can be used to cook vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, and mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

6. Is brining necessary for cedar plank salmon?

While not necessary, brining your salmon before baking it on a cedar plank will enhance its flavor and texture.

7. How long should I bake my cedar plank salmon in the oven?

Bake your seasoned salmon fillets on soaked wooden boards in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

8. What herbs go well with cedar plank salmon?

Herbs such as dill, thyme, rosemary, and parsley pair well with baked cedar plank salmon.

9. Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and baking them on the cedar plank in the oven.