Cedar Planks: Salmon’s Best Friend

Cedar Plank, grilling, Paleo, Salmon, sunday supper

My family loves fish, even my young daughter. Lucky enough to live in Florida, we have access to fresh fish and eat it regularly. Trying to find new ways to prepare fish is the real challenge. Broiling can get boring, and frying is too messy and fattening. So that leaves the grill, which I personally believe cooks the best fish.IMG_1251

One of my favorite ways to grill fish is to use a cedar plank. You’ve probably either had  it served that way at a restaurant or have at least seen it on a menu, and trust me, it’s delicious.

It’s easier than you think to find cedar planks. Stores like Williams-Sonoma, Fresh Market and Whole Foods carry them, and you can even sometimes find planks at places like HomeGoods or World Market. Search for wood chips and that’s usually where you’ll also find the wood planks.

When I’m grilling salmon, the cedar plank is my go-to method, and Williams-Sonoma’s Potlatch Seasoning is my favorite way to flavor it. However, I also love fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon as an alternative preparation. As the plank heats up on the grill, the smoke infuses the fish with the cedar’s flavor. You truly only need to add a little seasoning and your salmon will be tender, flavorful and look quite impressiIMG_1226ve.

Soaking the plank is key. Submerge the plank under water for at least 30 minutes  before grilling. Then remove it from the water, place the seasoned salmon on top with the skin side down, and toss it on the grill. Cooking at 425-450 degrees, the salmon should only take about 20-25 minutes, depending on its thickness.

Try this preparation for any of your favorite fish, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. It doesn’t take much extra time but the reward is lovely, flavorful fish without using extra fat to make it delicious.

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