grilled balsamic and honey glazed salmon

this is our family's tried and true version of grilled salmon.  my mom has been making it for years.  it's easy to make, easy to serve and easy to clean up.  i probably should mention that it's easy to eat, too, because it's so good!  it's also great reheated the next day for lunch.  so, hopefully it's now beginning to be more like grilling season in your parts so that you can enjoy some great fish!  and stay tuned for a great grilling present for those special dads out there!

1 whole side of salmon 

1 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup honey

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

3 tbsp butter
mesquite wood chips, optional

in a small bowl, mix together all ingredients (except butter) and set aside.  if your honey is crystallized, heat in microwave until it is clear and smooth again.  unwrap salmon from packaging and gently rinse under cold water.  be sure to pat dry well.  lay out a piece of heavy-duty foil long enough to wrap the fish in.  spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray so the fish won't stick.  lay the fish in the center and pour the honey-balsamic glaze over the top.  top with pats of butter and close the foil enough that the steam won't escape.  be sure to make it easy enough to open, though, while the fish is on the grill.  

for extra flavor add mesquite wood chips to the grill.  heat the grill up to medium-high.  cook salmon on the grill for about 10-15 minutes with the foil closed.  cook for another 5-10 minutes with the foil open (like in the picture above).  salmon will be done when it's opaque and flakes with a fork.  remove to cookie sheet and serve.