Pan Roasted Asparagus

I love asparagus.  Asparagus haters just haven't had good asparagus.  It's a delicious food.

Start with somewhat thick asparagus.  The super thin ones get overcooked and soggy too easily.

Slice a few small cloves of fresh garlic.  Chop the ends off of the asparagus.

Then add about two tablespoons of olive oil to your skillet.  Heat it over medium heat.  Add the garlic slices.  Cook until the garlic begins to brown.  It will be about 2-3 minutes.  Don't overcook the garlic.  You'll want it to be a pretty golden brown color.

Then remove the garlic cloves and set them aside.  Leave the garlic-y oil in the pan.  Add about a tablespoon of butter to the pan.  Then add in the asparagus.  Spread out the spears in order to create one layer.  Then cover the pan and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes or until the asparagus begins to brown on the outside and is softened.  Stir about once, half way through.

Then remove the asparagus to a plate.  Add freshly grated Parmesan.  Then crumble the roasted garlic cloves and sprinkle them onto the asparagus.  Top with a bit of salt.

Mmmmm asparagus. Serve with crispy pan-fried pork chops and pretty potatoes.