Wood Grilled Salmon – Smoky, Tender, and Flavorful

Wood Grilled Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural richness of salmon with a smoky, wood-grilled flavor. Cooking salmon on a wood plank or over wood chips infuses it with subtle earthy notes while keeping the fish moist and tender. Perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or a healthy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoky Flavor – The wood infuses the salmon with deep, earthy notes.
Perfectly Tender – Grilling keeps the fish moist and flaky.
Simple Seasoning – A few fresh herbs and spices let the salmon shine.
Healthy & Elegant – Nutritious, flavorful, and beautiful to serve.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• 1 cedar plank (if using), soaked in water for at least 1 hour

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill
   Preheat grill to medium heat (about 375–400°F). If using wood chips, soak them for 30 minutes and place in a smoker box or foil pouch. If using a cedar plank, soak it in water for at least 1 hour before grilling.
2. Season the Salmon
   In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Brush mixture over the salmon fillets.
3. Grill the Salmon
   Place salmon skin-side down on the cedar plank or directly on the grill grates over indirect heat. Close the lid and grill for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
4. Finish and Serve
   Remove from grill and sprinkle with fresh dill or parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Nutritional Information

Calories: ~310
Protein: 34g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Fiber: 0g

Tips for Success

• Soak the Wood – Always soak cedar planks to prevent burning.
• Add Citrus Flavor – Grill lemon slices alongside salmon for extra brightness.
• Don’t Overcook – Salmon should be just cooked through for the best flavor and texture.

Why This Recipe Works

Cooking salmon over wood adds a smoky depth that enhances its natural richness without overpowering it. The cedar plank gently steams the fish, keeping it tender, while the simple marinade balances freshness with bold grilled flavor.

Wood Grilled Salmon is a flavorful, healthy, and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its smoky aroma, tender texture, and simple preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.