Get ready to transform your backyard barbecue into a gourmet dining experience with this mouthwatering Maple Chipotle Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon! This recipe isn't just another fish dish - it's a flavor explosion that combines the sweet smokiness of maple, the spicy kick of chipotle, and the aromatic essence of cedar planks. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a weekend cooking enthusiast, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary skills and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cedar plank
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by soaking the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour. This will help prevent the wood from catching fire on the grill and will also infuse a subtle smoky flavor into the salmon.
- While the cedar plank is soaking, prepare the marinade for the salmon. In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, chipotle sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is evenly coated. Allow the salmon to marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for a stronger flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals until they are covered with gray ash.
- Remove the cedar plank from the water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Place the plank directly on the grill grates for about 5 minutes, or until it starts to crackle and smoke.
- Carefully place the marinated salmon fillets on the hot cedar plank, skin side down. Reserve any remaining marinade for basting.
- Close the grill lid and cook the salmon for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Baste the salmon with the reserved marinade halfway through cooking for added flavor.
- Once the salmon is cooked, carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using tongs. Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the maple chipotle cedar plank grilled salmon with your choice of sides, such as grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Tips
- Always soak your cedar plank for at least an hour to prevent burning and enhance wood-infused flavor
- Use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best results
- Don't marinate too long - 30 minutes is the sweet spot to prevent the fish from becoming mushy
- Keep a close eye on the grill temperature to avoid overcooking
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute
- Consider using a meat thermometer to ensure perfect 145°F doneness
- Experiment with different wood planks like alder or hickory for unique flavor profiles
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 153kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
