Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is a widely cultivated crop native to most parts of Europe, western Asia and northern Africa. Only the young shoots of the asparagus plant are eaten. Once the tips, or buds, start to open the stalks can quickly become woody and unpalatable. Asparagus has been cultivated and eaten for thousands of years, and today it can be found in green, white and purple varieties.

Asparagus can be cooked in a variety of ways including steaming, grilling, boiling and even roasting. It can be enjoyed plain, with a sauce or seasonings or as a part of a stir fry or stew. Another way to prepare asparagus is to wrap it in bacon. Here's how to prepare asparagus wrapped in bacon.