Pan Fried Asparagus

I have such a busy week ahead! I am making a birthday cake for one of my best friend's daughter. This will be my first girly cake and I couldn't be more excited! I am also making some cakepops for a different birthday party. But the most exciting part of my week is that my dad will be coming here from Arizona!! I haven't seen him in over a year. He will be at the Breeders Cup on Saturday and we have plans to meet up on Sunday to eat and explore Berea. (one of my favorite places ever!!) I cant wait to tell you all about it.
In kitchen news...one of my husband's favorite meals that I fix is my meatloaf and "smashed" potatoes. The side dishes that we fix along side it vary. This time I decided to use some nice asparagus that I found. I really wanted to keep it simple because the flavors in my meatloaf and potatoes are somewhat bold. All I can say is YUM! I have never prepared asparagus this way because typically I eat it steamed. I know it isn't the healthiest way to enjoy it but oh man...tasting this made me not care. Enjoy!

Pan Fried Asparagus
1/4 cup butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
2 tablespoons fresh squeezes lemon juice
Shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)

Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Stir in the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Cook garlic in butter for a minute, but do not brown. Add asparagus, and cook for 10 minutes, turning asparagus to ensure even cooking. Add lemon juice and shredded cheese. Enjoy!

Yum!