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Hello! I’m Amelia, welcome to Ritzy recipes. My love for cooking started from a very personal journey when my first child went through a difficult period of illness, and today I am sharing a dish that is both nourishing and impressive: Cedar Plank Salmon with Mustard Soy Glaze. Spending more time in the kitchen learning how food can truly make a difference became a passion, and this easy grilled cedar plank salmon recipe is the perfect way to bring a touch of outdoor magic to your dinner table.
From that moment on, cooking was no longer just a necessity it became something I truly love. So here we are! Now, I share cottage recipes that are simple, delicious, and full of heart. My kitchen isn’t about perfection—it’s about real food and real flavor. Next, you will discover how to master the art of wood-fired flavor with a sweet and savory salmon glaze that will have your family asking for seconds. Also, if you need more ideas for a complete meal, my easy healthy dinner ideas offer great inspiration. Then, the salmon becomes a tender, smoky masterpiece. Also, you might want to try a winter salad recipe roasted butternut squash if you enjoy hearty, flavorful sides. Grab a glass of sweet tea and let’s throw down in the kitchen!
What You Need for Cedar Plank Salmon
Before we start, make sure your gear is ready. This healthy grilled seafood recipe relies on the interaction between the wood smoke and the glaze. You don’t need fancy tools, but a high-quality untreated cedar plank is a must.
- Salmon Fillets: A large side of salmon or individual wild-caught fillets work beautifully.
- Cedar Planks: Make sure they are food-grade and untreated.
- Mustard: Whole grain or Dijon provides a sharp, tangy base.
- Soy Sauce: This adds the essential saltiness to our mustard soy ginger salmon marinade.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: To balance the salt with a touch of sweetness.
- Fresh Ginger and Garlic: These aromatics make the glaze pop.
Then, gather your favorite seasonings. Also, if you love creative seafood twists, look at my marry me salmon for another crowd-pleaser. Next, don’t worry, you won’t burn the house down as long as you follow my soaking tips!
How to Grill Salmon on Wood Planks
Step 1: Soak Your Planks
First, you must prepare your wood. Also, this is the most important of all cedar plank cooking tips for beginners. Place your planks in a tray of water for at least two hours. Then, weigh them down with a heavy bowl to keep them submerged. This prevents the wood from catching fire and creates that lovely steam.
Step 2: Whisk the Glaze

Next, create your best glaze for wild-caught salmon. In a small bowl, whisk together the mustard, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, and garlic. Also, remember that a little whisking goes a long way to emulsify the honey. Then, set aside a small portion of the glaze to brush on fresh at the very end.
Step 3: Season and Sear
Also, pat your salmon dry before adding the marinade. Brush the thick mustard soy ginger salmon marinade over the top of the fish. Then, place the salmon directly onto the soaked cedar plank. Next, check out this honey garlic chicken recipe if you enjoy other sweet and savory glazes.
Step 4: The Grilling Process
Then, place the entire plank on the preheated grill over medium-high heat. Also, close the lid to trap that delicious cedar smoke inside. Next, let the grill do the work for about 12 to 15 minutes. Also, if you want a different protein on the side, my garlic butter steak bites are always a hit.
Step 5: The Final Touch
Also, check the temperature before removing the fish from the heat. Then, brush on that reserved glaze for a glossy, beautiful finish. This is one of the most popular healthy grilled seafood recipes because it feels like a restaurant-quality meal made right at home. Next, for a refreshing dessert after a smoky meal, try my strawberry mousse.
FAQs
Yes, it is essential to soak your cedar planks in water for at least 1 to 2 hours before placing them on the grill. This creates steam that keeps the fish moist and prevents the wood from catching fire. For extra flavor, you can even add a splash of wine or apple juice to the soaking liquid.
Cedar planking infuses the salmon with a subtle, smoky wood aroma that balances the richness of the fish. When combined with a mustard soy glaze, the wood smoke acts as a third flavor dimension, bridging the gap between the tangy mustard and the salty-sweet soy sauce.
The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or when the flesh flakes easily with a fork. Since plank cooking is a gentler, indirect heat method, the salmon stays incredibly tender and is less likely to dry out compared to grilling directly on the grates.
If the plank is still in good shape and hasn’t been heavily charred, you can rinse it with warm water (no soap!) and reuse it once more. However, most cooks prefer to use a fresh plank each time to ensure the strongest cedar aroma. Also, if you want a perfect side dish, try my crispy hash browns recipe for a delicious crunch.

Wrapping Up the Feast
Also, I hope your family loves this Cedar Plank Salmon with Mustard Soy Glaze as much as mine does! It’s a simple, soulful meal that brings the best of summer flavors together. Then, you can sit back and enjoy the smoky aroma lingering in the air.
Next time you fire up the grill, grab some cedar planks and give this a try. Also, don’t forget to Pin this for later so you always have a healthy, impressive dinner idea ready to go. Then, leave a comment below and let me know if you used any special liquids for soaking your planks! Next, if you have room for a treat tomorrow, my blueberry cottage cheese breakfast bake is the best way to start the day.
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Cedar Plank Salmon with Mustard Soy Glaze: A Smoky Summer Feast
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A restaurant-quality salmon dish infused with smoky cedar wood and topped with a tangy, sweet, and savory mustard soy glaze.
Ingredients
1 large salmon side (about 2 lbs)
2 untreated cedar planks, soaked for 2 hours
3 tbsp Dijon or whole grain mustard
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh lemon slices for garnish
Green onions, chopped for garnish
Instructions
1. Soak cedar planks in water for at least 2 hours before grilling.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic.
4. Pat the salmon dry and place it on the soaked cedar planks.
5. Brush the mustard soy glaze generously over the salmon.
6. Place the planks on the grill grates and close the lid.
7. Grill for 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
8. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
9. Garnish with lemon slices and green onions before serving.
Notes
If the plank edges catch fire, use a spray bottle of water to extinguish. For a deeper flavor, add 1/4 cup of white wine to the soaking water.
- Prep Time: 2 hours (soaking)
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American/Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg




