Broccoli

• Steaming broccoli until tender-crisp and serving it as a simple and healthy side dish seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice is a classic preparation. It's a quick and easy way to enjoy the vegetable's natural flavor and retain its nutrients.
• Roasting broccoli with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese in a hot oven creates a delicious and slightly charred flavor profile. This method brings out the sweetness of the broccoli and adds a delightful textural contrast.
• Adding chopped broccoli florets to stir-fries alongside other vegetables, protein, and your favorite sauce enhances the dish with its crunchy texture and subtle earthy flavor. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
• Blending cooked broccoli into creamy soups, such as broccoli cheddar soup, adds a boost of nutrients and a subtle green color. The broccoli's mild flavor blends well with other ingredients, creating a comforting and healthy meal.
• Incorporating finely chopped broccoli into frittatas, quiches, or omelets adds a boost of nutrients, texture, and flavor. The broccoli cooks evenly within the egg mixture, creating a satisfying and wholesome dish.
• Using broccoli as a topping for pizza offers a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional toppings. The broccoli adds a pleasant crunch and a mild earthiness that complements the other ingredients on the pizza.

• Supports immune function with vitamin C.
• Promotes bone health due to vitamin K and calcium content.
• May aid in cancer prevention with sulforaphane.
• Rich in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and gut health.
• Provides antioxidants to combat free radicals and inflammation.
• Supports heart health with potassium and fiber.

To keep broccoli fresh, store it unwashed in the refrigerator. For short-term storage (3-5 days), place broccoli in a perforated plastic bag in the crisper drawer. For longer storage, consider blanching and freezing broccoli florets. Freezing can help maintain flavor and nutritional value for several months. Avoid storing broccoli at room temperature, as it will quickly wilt and lose its crispness.