Broiled Salmon and Asparagus with Crème Fraîche

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat broiler with oven rack about 4 in. from heat.
2. 2
   Snap off bottom of an asparagus spear to see where it breaks easily. Line up remaining spears and slice off bottoms at the same spot. Put trimmed asparagus on a 12- by 17-in. rimmed baking sheet, sprinkle with oil and 1/4 tsp. each salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Arrange asparagus in a single layer on baking sheet.
3. 3
   Season salmon with remaining 1/2 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper, then set on top of asparagus in a single layer.
4. 4
   Broil salmon and asparagus until salmon is no longer translucent but still moist in center and asparagus is browned in spots, 8 to 12 minutes. If asparagus isn't done, lift salmon to a platter and return asparagus to oven for a few more minutes.
5. 5
   Meanwhile, whisk together crme frache, mustard, chives, and salt and pepper to taste in a small bowl.
6. 6
   Serve salmon and asparagus with crme frache sauce.