A special evening deserves a meal to match, and Valentine's Day is the perfect occasion to skip crowded restaurants and create something unforgettable at home. Maple Chipotle Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon delivers bold flavor with minimal effort, turning a simple fillet into a restaurant-worthy dish. The combination of smoky heat and caramelized sweetness brings warmth to the table, making it an ideal way to celebrate with someone special.

Infused with chipotle spice and rich maple syrup, the salmon takes on deep layers of flavor while grilling over a smoldering cedar plank. As the wood steams beneath the fillet, it imparts a subtle earthiness that enhances the smoky-sweet balance. The result is tender, flaky fish with a perfectly glazed finish that pairs beautifully with fresh greens, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes.

Light the grill, pour a favorite drink, and let the aroma fill the air. Whether crafting a romantic dinner for two or a cozy meal at home, this recipe makes any moment feel indulgent—without the long wait for a table.

Serves 6

Maple Chipotle Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon Ingredients

Equipment

  • Untreated Cedar Plank

Salmon

  • 1 ½ pounds whole wild-caught salmon filet (Pin bones removed)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle dry rub (may have to adjust based on the exact size of salmon)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • ½ grilled lemon

Chipotle Dry Rub

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • ½ tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried chipotle powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper

Maple Chipotle Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon Directions

  1. Soak the Cedar Plank: fully submerged in water for 30 minutes (up to 60 minutes). Pat dry after removing from water.
  2. Make the Dry Rub: combine dry rub ingredients in a small bowl.
  3. Prepare Grill for Indirect Cooking: targeting 450 degrees in the cooking chamber.
  4. Prepare Salmon: coat salmon with olive oil, then sprinkle about two tablespoons of the dry rub over the salmon liberally (you may have some dry rub left over).
  5. Grill Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon on the cedar plank and cook on direct heat for up to 15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 120 degrees. While the salmon is cooking, place the lemon half over direct heat and cook for 4-5 minutes until char marks appear.
  6. Finish over Indirect Heat: Transfer the salmon and cedar plank to indirect heat, glaze with the maple syrup using a brush, and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 130 degrees. Remove from the grill. Carry-over cooking will continue cooking the salmon to 135 degrees.
  7. Let rest for five minutes, and then slice and serve. If using the grilled lemon, squeeze some of the grilled lemon over the top when serving.

 

Taken from vindulge.com  https://www.vindulge.com/maple-chipotle-cedar-plank-grilled-salmon/

February 11, 2025 — Randy Gonzalez