Broccoli: How To Select, Store and Serve

Broccoli

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Moms everywhere have been telling kids to “eat your broccoli” since the dawn of time. And for good reason! Broccoli is rich in calcium, folate, fiber, potassium, lutein, and beta-carotene. Broccoli has twice the amount of vitamin C as oranges! It’s super low in calories and contains very little fat.

It’s a shame that broccoli gets a bad rap as the veggie that moms have to nag kids to eat. In addition to being nutritious, it’s also super delicious. We find that most kids and their parents love broccoli when served in exciting ways. If you don’t love broccoli, it’s probably because you haven’t found your favorite way to prepare and serve it yet. We’ll share some yummy serving suggestions, but before we do, let’s discuss how to select and store broccoli.

How To Select Broccoli

When selecting broccoli, choose heads with tight, bluish-green florets. The head should be odorless and the stalk should be firm.

How To Store Broccoli

Broccoli should be stored unwashed in the refrigerator. It’s okay to store broccoli in a plastic bag, as long as the bag stays unsealed. It’s better, however, to wrap broccoli in a damp paper towel. Use within 3-5 days.

How To Store Broccoli In The Freezer

Broccoli can also be frozen for up to 12 months. To freeze broccoli, wash and then cut the head into florets and the stem into pieces. Blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes (this preserves the color and flavor). Remove the broccoli from the boiling water immediately and then cool it by submerging it in ice water for 5 minutes. Drain and dry completely but quickly. Use a salad spinner or towel to remove as much excess water as possible. Place in freezer bags and store in the freezer.

How To Serve Broccoli

Broccoli can be eaten raw, steamed, blanched, baked…. you name it! Raw broccoli contains the most nutrients, but cooked broccoli is still good for you! They key to cooked broccoli is to cook it until it’s tender but still keeps some of its crunch.

Here are some of our favorite broccoli recipes. Try them all and let us know which you love best!

Broccoli Mandarin Orange SaladBroccoli Mandarin Salad RecipeSimple Shrimp and Veggies Sheet PanSimple Shrimp Veggies Sheet Pan

Broccoli and Beef StirfryBroccoli and Beef Recipe

What’s your favorite way to serve broccoli? Share your ideas and recipes in the comments below. 

About Lori

Lori Taylor is the Founder & CEO of The Produce Moms. For ten years she sold fresh produce to over 300 grocery stores throughout the United States, and today she is fully focused on working with the produce supply chain, media, and government to increase fresh produce access & consumption in the US and around the globe. Connect with Lori on LinkedIn.

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