Asparagus season is here!

Beautiful bunches of fresh asparagus are appearing in markets and prices are much more reasonable - indicating asparagus season is upon us! Classified officially as a Spring vegetable, asparagus has been considered a delicacy since ancient Roman times.

Generally picked when the spears are about eight inches in length, asparagus is picked as early as February in California, although the official season is considered April through May. In the Midwest and East, the growing season can extend through July.

Both succulent and tender, asparagus spears can be prepared solely as a dish by itself, cooke...