Easy Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Lemon Dill Butter

BY :

Ovia Smith

Posted On :

June 7, 2026

Easy Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Lemon Dill Butter

Father’s Day is a special occasion that calls for a celebration filled with love, laughter, and delicious food. If you’re looking for a way to impress Dad this year, I’ve got just the thing: an Easy Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Lemon Dill Butter. This dish not only showcases the rich flavors of fresh salmon but also adds a smoky aroma and a delightful zest from the lemon dill butter. Imagine the look on Dad’s face when you present him with a beautifully grilled salmon that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe is simple enough for any home cook to master, yet impressive enough to make it feel like a gourmet meal. Let’s dive into the details and get you prepared for a Father’s Day celebration that he won’t forget!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love this Easy Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Lemon Dill Butter. First and foremost, the combination of cedar plank grilling and lemon dill butter creates a flavor profile that is both unique and mouthwatering. The cedar plank infuses the salmon with a smoky, aromatic flavor that enhances its natural richness. This technique is not only delicious but also easy, making it perfect for casual family gatherings or special occasions like Father’s Day.

Moreover, the addition of lemon dill butter elevates the dish to a new level of elegance. The creamy butter, combined with the bright acidity of lemon and the fresh herbiness of dill, perfectly complements the salmon, making each bite a burst of flavor. This butter is not just a topping; it transforms the salmon into something truly special. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, allowing you to prepare everything else while it chills.

Another reason to love this recipe is its health benefits. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy properties. It’s packed with protein and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also promotes a healthy lifestyle, making it an ideal option for family gatherings.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Trying out this Easy Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Lemon Dill Butter is a great way to celebrate the flavors of summer while bringing the family together. The grilling process is simple and allows you to enjoy the outdoors while cooking. As the salmon sizzles on the grill, the aromatic cedar wood releases its fragrance, creating a festive ambiance that makes any gathering feel special.

Additionally, this recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit different tastes. You can experiment with other herbs or spices in the lemon dill butter or even add a hint of honey for a touch of sweetness. It’s a forgiving recipe that encourages creativity, allowing you to make it your own while still being simple to follow.

Moreover, preparing this dish is a fantastic opportunity to engage with your family. Whether you’re teaching your kids how to grill or spending quality time with your partner, cooking together can create lasting memories. This recipe is about more than just food; it’s about bringing loved ones together and sharing a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. So, gather your family, fire up that grill, and let’s get started!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To make this Easy Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Lemon Dill Butter, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Salmon:

1 large cedar plank (about 15×5 inches), soaked in water for at least 1 hour
1 pound salmon fillet, skin on
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon slices, for garnish
Fresh dill, for garnish

For the Lemon Dill Butter:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

In terms of utensils, here are some recommended tools to ensure your success:

Grill (charcoal or gas)
Small mixing bowl
Plastic wrap
Grill tongs
Fish spatula (for easy flipping)
Meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)

Having the right utensils on hand will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. A grill thermometer can be particularly helpful if you want to ensure that your salmon is perfectly cooked, but it’s not absolutely necessary.

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering Easy Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Lemon Dill Butter.

Prepare the Cedar Plank: Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour before grilling. This step is crucial as it prevents the wood from burning on the grill and allows it to impart its wonderful flavor to the salmon.
Make the Lemon Dill Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon juice, chopped dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated. For easier handling, transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a log. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate until ready to use. This can be done a day in advance for convenience.
Prepare the Salmon: Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F – 400°F. Remove the cedar plank from the water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Place the plank on the grill grates and close the lid. Heat the plank for about 3-5 minutes until it begins to smoke. While the plank is heating, season the salmon fillet generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Grill the Salmon: Once the cedar plank is hot and smoking, carefully place the salmon on the plank, skin-side down. Close the grill lid and cook the salmon for about 12-15 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Serve: Using tongs, carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill. Transfer the salmon to a serving platter. Slice the chilled lemon dill butter into rounds and place a few pieces on top of the hot salmon. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and dill before serving.

Here are a couple of practical tips to make your experience even better:

Make sure to soak your cedar plank long enough; a longer soak can enhance the flavor.
Consider using a digital meat thermometer to check for doneness; salmon is best when cooked to 145°F.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of fish like trout or even halibut. Just ensure that the cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fish.

What can I serve with grilled salmon?

Grilled salmon pairs beautifully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even a side of rice. Consider trying a refreshing summer salad like the Melon Prosciutto Summer Salad.

How do I know when my salmon is done cooking?

Salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork. A meat thermometer can be a helpful tool for this.

Can I prepare the lemon dill butter in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the lemon dill butter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just slice it and place it on the salmon right before serving.

Is cedar plank grilling safe?

Yes, using cedar planks for grilling is safe as long as you use untreated, food-safe cedar wood and soak it properly to prevent burning.

Conclusion

In summary, this Easy Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon Recipe with Lemon Dill Butter is a fantastic way to celebrate Father’s Day with a meal that is both delicious and healthy. The smoky flavor of the cedar plank combined with the zesty lemon dill butter creates a dish that is sure to impress. I encourage you to gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and create lasting memories around the table. For more delicious recipes, check out our collection of summer salads like the Garlic Shrimp Summer Salad or Broccoli Crunch Summer Salad for treats you will love!