Imagine the tantalizing aroma of cedar smoke wafting through the air as you unveil a perfectly grilled salmon fillet, caramelized with brown sugar and a hint of black pepper. This is not just any meal; it's a culinary experience that will elevate your dinner table and impress your guests! With just a few simple ingredients and a cedar plank, you can create a dish that embodies the essence of American cuisine while delivering a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets
- Cedar plank
- Brown sugar
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by soaking the cedar plank in water for at least 30 minutes. This will prevent it from catching fire on the grill and will also infuse the salmon with a subtle smoky flavor.
- While the cedar plank is soaking, prepare the salmon fillets. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help with the seasoning.
- In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well to create a seasoning blend.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the salmon fillets, then sprinkle the brown sugar and black pepper mixture evenly over the top of each fillet. Use your hands to gently press the mixture into the salmon.
- Season the salmon with salt to taste. Be careful not to over-salt, as the brown sugar will add some sweetness that balances the flavors.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals for direct grilling. If using a gas grill, ensure all burners are set to medium-high.
- Once the grill is hot, place the soaked cedar plank directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and heat the plank for about 3-5 minutes, or until it begins to smoke and crackle.
- Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets on the cedar plank, skin-side down if the skin is still on. Close the lid of the grill.
- Grill the salmon for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using tongs or heat-resistant gloves. Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the cedar plank salmon warm, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Soak the Cedar Plank: Don’t skip the soaking step! Soaking the cedar plank for at least 30 minutes not only prevents it from burning on the grill but also enhances the smoky flavor that infuses into the salmon.
- Dry the Salmon: For the best results, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a nice sear.
- Perfect Seasoning: Mix the brown sugar and black pepper in a bowl and press it into the salmon. This creates a caramelized crust that balances sweetness and spice beautifully.
- Monitor the Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and ensure it’s hot enough before placing the cedar plank on it. This will help achieve that perfect smoky flavor and prevent sticking.
- Check for Doneness: Grill the salmon for 15-20 minutes, but keep an eye on it! The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Rest Before Serving: After grilling, allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Garnish for Presentation: Serve your cedar plank salmon with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for a pop of color and an extra burst of freshness.With these tips in mind, you're all set to create a stunning dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
