How to easily make planked salmon

A smoking plank brings real BBQ feeling to the grill. Whether fish, meat, vegetables or even fruit – grilling on wood gives the food a delicate, natural smoky aroma.

Particularly popular: planked salmon. The gentle cooking on the beech wood keeps the fish juicy, gives it a light smoky note, and is almost stress-free to prepare.

Planked Salmon – Easy Grilling Recipe

Juicy, aromatic, and visually appealing – perfect for guests or a special barbecue evening.

Ingredients

• 1 salmon fillet (500–700 g)
  (alternatively: salmon trout or trout)

• 1 tbsp fish seasoning or sea salt with a little lemon zest

• a little lemon juice

• 1–2 tbsp rapeseed oil

• freshly ground pepper

Grilling with a smoking plank – Step by Step

1️. Soak the smoking plank

Soak the beech plank in water for at least 2 hours, or preferably 6–12 hours.
Optionally, you can place a plate or weight on it to keep it completely submerged.

👉 This prevents it from burning too quickly and ensures even smoke development.

2️. Prepare the fish

Rinse the salmon under cold water and carefully pat dry.

Rub with a little oil, season with fish seasoning or sea salt and drizzle with a little lemon juice.
Grind fresh pepper over it.

Don't salt too heavily – the aroma of the wood should be the main focus.

3️. Prepare the grill

Preheat the grill to 180–200 °C.

First, place the soaked plank over direct heat for 2–3 minutes until it starts to smoke.
Then move it to the indirect zone.

Now place the salmon, skin side down, on the plank and close the lid.

4️. Cooking time

Depending on its thickness, the salmon needs 15–25 minutes.

It's done when:

• the protein slightly emerges
• the flesh flakes off translucent and tender
• the core temperature is approx. 54–58 °C

Do not overcook – the fish will continue to cook after removal.

5️. Serving

Place the plank directly on the table and portion the salmon on it.

Serve with:

• fresh baguette
• lemon butter
• baked potatoes
• light summer salad

💡Extra Tip

If desired, you can place fresh herbs like dill or thyme on the plank before grilling.
Alternatively, maple or cedar wood provide a different aroma.

📷 grillmitdaniel