Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Ginger Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking to truly impress at your next cookout, Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Ginger Glaze is your secret weapon. This dish combines the gentle smokiness of cedar with a perfectly balanced sweet-and-savory glaze that highlights salmon’s rich, buttery flavor. It’s vibrant, incredibly aromatic, and couldn’t be more of a show-stopper—both in presentation and taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep things beautifully simple: every ingredient in this Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Ginger Glaze recipe shines. They not only create that signature sticky-sweet glaze, but also highlight the freshness and natural taste of the salmon itself—there’s no filler, just pure deliciousness.

• Salmon (Sockeye, Coho, or King): Opt for a fresh, thick fillet—these varieties hold up beautifully on the grill and boast a rich yet clean flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Real maple syrup is a must for depth, gentle sweetness, and that gorgeous lacquered finish.
• Tamari (or Coconut Aminos): Both give the glaze a subtle salty backbone and an irresistible umami hit; tamari also keeps the recipe gluten-free.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and just the right pop of acidity to balance out the sweetness.
• Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic infuses boldness and savory edge—don’t skimp!
• Grated Ginger: This is the glaze’s secret weapon, bringing an invigorating warmth and gentle heat.
• Cedar Planks: The magic behind that smoky-aromatic finish, helping infuse the salmon with subtle woodsy notes.
• Green Onion (for garnish, optional): For a fresh, vibrant touch right before serving.

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how forgiving and adaptable it is. You can easily put your own spin on Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Ginger Glaze, tweaking both the glaze and salmon to suit your taste or dietary preferences!

• Different Fish: Don’t hesitate to swap in steelhead trout or even Arctic char for a unique yet equally luscious effect.
• Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the glaze for a little kick that pairs perfectly with the maple sweetness.
• Citrus Twist: Swap lemon juice for lime or orange for a fresh, unexpected brightness in the glaze.
• No Grill? No Problem: This recipe works beautifully in an oven set to 350°F—just make sure to soak your cedar plank well and bake on the middle rack.

How to Make Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Ginger Glaze

Step 1: Soak the Cedar Planks

Start by submerging your cedar planks in water for at least two hours. This step is essential: it keeps the planks from catching fire on the grill and ensures they’ll gently steam, infusing the salmon with their signature woodsy aroma. If your planks float up, weigh them down with a bowl or heavy utensil to keep them fully submerged.

Step 2: Prepare the Maple Ginger Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, tamari, lemon juice, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, until it’s thickened and reduced by half—you want a glaze that’s glossy and syrupy, not runny.

Step 3: Prep the Salmon

Pat your salmon fillet dry with paper towels to ensure the glaze sticks beautifully and the salmon sears nicely. If you prefer, you can remove the skin for easier serving, but leaving it on adds extra flavor and helps keep the fish moist.

Step 4: Glaze and Grill

Heat your grill to 350°F (use medium-high and indirect heat if you can). Set the planked salmon skin-side down onto the soaked cedar plank, then brush on a generous layer of your maple ginger glaze. Place the plank directly in the center of the grill, close the lid, and let the salmon roast for 12 to 15 minutes. For an especially sticky finish, brush more glaze over the salmon halfway through cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Once the salmon just flakes with a fork—don’t overcook!—remove the plank from the grill using two sturdy tongs (it’ll be hot). Slide the plank onto a large baking pan for safe transport. Garnish with fresh green onions if you like, and serve the Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Ginger Glaze straight from the plank at the table. It truly is an experience!

How to Serve Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Ginger Glaze

Garnishes

A sprinkling of thinly sliced green onions just before serving adds crunch, color, and a lovely pop of freshness. You could also scatter some toasted sesame seeds or even a handful of chopped fresh herbs—think dill or parsley—to weave in extra layers of fragrance.

Side Dishes

This salmon loves to be surrounded by light, vibrant companions: try simple steamed asparagus, garlicky broccolini, or crisp cucumber salad. Fluffy steamed rice or roasted baby potatoes soak up all the extra glaze and complete the plate beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, slice the salmon directly on the cedar plank and serve it family-style, letting everyone dig in for seconds. For an alfresco lunch, cut the salmon into individual portions and nestle each piece atop a bed of greens with extra glaze drizzled over top. It’s rustic elegance, and everyone will want to snap a photo!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), allow the salmon to cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will taste fantastic for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits.

Freezing

Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Ginger Glaze can be frozen in portions if needed. Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap then foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture (though freshly made is always dreamy).

Reheating

To reheat, place the salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover lightly with foil, and warm in a 275°F oven just until heated through—about 10 minutes. Or, enjoy leftovers cold, flaked over greens or tucked into sandwiches for a gourmet twist.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience just how spectacular Cedar Plank Salmon with Maple Ginger Glaze truly is—from the aroma as it grills, to the way everyone gathers around for another serve. Give it a try—you’ll see just how simple, show-stopping, and soul-satisfying dinner can be. Happy grilling, my friend!

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