Plank Cedar Roasted Whole Salmon

Roasting a whole salmon on a cedar plank is a classic method that adds a smoky flavor to the fish, making it a spectacular dish for gatherings. Here's a detailed recipe to guide you through the process:

Ingredients

• 1 whole salmon (about 4 to 5 pounds), gutted and scaled

• 1 cedar plank (large enough to hold the salmon)

• 2 lemons, thinly sliced

• 1 bunch fresh dill

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Optional: garlic cloves, thinly sliced, and additional herbs like thyme or rosemary

Equipment

• Outdoor grill

• Aluminum foil (optional, for easier cleanup)

Preparation

1. Cedar Plank Soaking:

• Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 to 2 hours before grilling to prevent it from burning. 2. Salmon Preparation:

• Rinse the salmon under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels.

• Check for any remaining scales and remove them.

• Make shallow diagonal cuts along the sides of the salmon to allow the heat and flavors to penetrate more deeply. 3. Seasoning:

• Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the salmon.

• Generously season the inside and outside of the salmon with salt and black pepper.

• Place lemon slices and fresh dill (and other herbs if using) inside the cavity of the salmon.

• If you like, insert slices of garlic and additional lemon slices into the cuts made on the sides of the salmon.

Cooking

1. Prepare the Grill:

• Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F).

• If your grill has a temperature gauge, aim to maintain this temperature throughout the cooking process. 2. Grilling:

• Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill and close the lid.

• Heat the plank for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until it starts to smoke and crackle.

• Place the salmon on the plank, skin side down.

• Cover the grill and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fish. 3. Serving:

• Carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using grill gloves or a spatula.

• Transfer the salmon to a serving platter, gently removing the skin if preferred.

• Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon slices.

Optional Serving Suggestions

• Serve the roasted salmon with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or a creamy dill sauce.

• For a festive touch, accompany the dish with chilled white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon.

This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the salmon enhanced by the smoky aroma of the cedar, perfect for a special occasion like Mother's Day or a family BBQ. Enjoy your meal!

Don't forget to book your Professional BBQ Cleaning Service to make sure your BBQ performs properly, with no flare-ups or grease fires that can burn your food, before putting the hard work into cooking this recipe.