Table of Contents: 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon
25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon
Imagine this: a beautifully charred, smoky salmon fillet infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of Dijon mustard and brown sugar, all cooked to perfection in just 25 minutes. Sounds like a restaurant-quality dish, right? Well, it’s easier than you think! This 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon recipe is here to revolutionize your weeknight dinners or impress your guests effortlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking for a foolproof method, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Cedar plank salmon is a classic dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or even casual gatherings. The cedar plank not only imparts a delightful smoky flavor but also keeps the salmon moist and tender. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both elegant and approachable. And the best part? It’s ready in 25 minutes, making it the ultimate quick cedar plank salmon recipe for busy evenings.
Introduction: 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon
There’s something magical about cooking salmon on a cedar plank. The combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors creates a symphony of tastes that’s hard to resist. This 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner, a family feast, or even a weeknight meal when you’re short on time but still crave something special.
The secret to this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just five key ingredients—salmon fillets, Dijon mustard, light brown sugar, lemon slices, and a pinch of salt and pepper—you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick, while the brown sugar caramelizes beautifully during cooking, creating a slightly sweet crust that’s simply irresistible. The lemon slices not only add a refreshing zing but also help keep the salmon moist.
What makes this recipe stand out is its speed. Unlike traditional cedar plank salmon recipes that require hours of preparation, this quick cedar plank salmon is ready in just 25 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Alternate Names & Variations
If you’re searching for other ways to enjoy this delightful dish, here are a few alternate names and variations you might come across:
– Quick Cedar Plank Fish: This method works wonderfully with other fish like trout or halibut.
– Easy Cedar Plank Salmon: A simpler version that skips the marinade and focuses on the essentials.
– Smoky Cedar Plank Salmon: For those who prefer a deeper smoky flavor.
Ingredients: 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon

Here’s what you’ll need for this 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon:
– 4 salmon fillets (about 4 oz each)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
– 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1 lemon (thinly sliced)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cedar Plank: If you’re using a cedar plank, soak it in water for at least 1 hour before cooking to prevent it from burning.
2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
3. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the Dijon mustard and light brown sugar until well combined.
5. Glaze the Salmon: Brush the glaze generously over the top of each salmon fillet.
6. Arrange Lemon Slices: Place the thinly sliced lemon on top of the glazed salmon fillets.
7. Grill the Salmon: Place the cedar plank on the preheated grill. Arrange the salmon fillets on the plank and close the grill lid.
8. Cook for 15–20 Minutes: Let the salmon cook undisturbed for 15–20 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
9. Serve Immediately: Carefully remove the salmon from the grill and serve immediately.
Recipe Card Block
This 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon recipe takes just 5 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making it the ultimate quick cedar plank salmon for busy weeknights. It serves 4 people and is approximately 300 calories per serving.
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
What makes this 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon a winner? It’s all about the balance of flavors and the simplicity of the process. The Dijon mustard and brown sugar glaze caramelizes beautifully during cooking, while the lemon slices keep the salmon moist and add a refreshing zing.
Expert Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, you can place the cedar plank directly on the grill grates for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Just make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
Leftover 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through.
People Also Ask: 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon

How do you cook salmon on a cedar plank in 25 minutes?
To cook salmon on a cedar plank in 25 minutes, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Soak the cedar plank for at least 1 hour, then place the seasoned and glazed salmon fillets on the plank. Grill for 15–20 minutes or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
What temperature should a cedar plank salmon be cooked to?
Cedar plank salmon should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F. This ensures the salmon is fully cooked but still moist and tender. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the fillet.
Do you soak the cedar plank before cooking salmon?
Yes, always soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour before cooking. This prevents the plank from burning during grilling and helps infuse the salmon with a smoky flavor.
What sides pair well with cedar plank salmon?
Cedar plank salmon pairs beautifully with sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider adding a crusty baguette or a citrusy quinoa salad.
Conclusion: 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon
There you have it—a 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon recipe that’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and share your results in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This 25 Minute Cedar Plank Salmon delivers rich, smoky flavor with a perfectly tender texture — a simple yet impressive dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cedar plank, soaked in water for at least 1 hour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill for 2 minutes until it starts to smoke.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the plank and brush generously with the marinade.
- Close the grill lid and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from grill, garnish with lemon slices, and serve immediately.
Notes
Make sure the cedar plank is fully soaked to prevent burning. This recipe also works great in the oven at 375°F.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: salmon, cedar plank, grilled, quick dinner, smoky flavor