Pan Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Garlic

Ingredients:

• 1 pound trimmed fresh asparagus
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp water
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and cut in half
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• salt and pepper to taste
• shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large sauté pan with a lid, on high heat, add the asparagus, olive oil, water, and garlic.  Cook for about 2 minutes uncovered, or until the water has almost evaporated.
2. Toss the asparagus with tongs, cover the pan and cook for 1 minute.
3. Remove the lid and toss the asparagus again. Put the lid back on and repeat until the asparagus are crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. The asparagus may brown slightly in spots, which adds to the pan-roasted flavor.
4. Add the lemon juice and toss to combine. Remove the garlic, and taste for salt and pepper. Serve hot.
5. Garnish with shaved Parmesan cheese.