Broccolini

Broccolini has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of peppery bitterness, making it a versatile ingredient in vegetarian cooking, perfect for adding texture and a nutritional boost to dishes like stir-fries, pastas, and salads.

How to Choose Fresh Broccolini at the Store

• Look for bright green color: Fresh broccolini should have a vibrant green hue.
• Firm, slender stalks: The stems should be firm and crisp, not limp or rubbery.
• Healthy florets: The florets should be tightly packed and not starting to flower.
• No yellowing or wilting: Avoid bunches with any signs of yellowing, wilting, or browning on the stems or florets.
• Heavy for its size: A good bunch will feel dense and substantial.

How to Prep and Store for Maximum Freshness

• Wash before use: Rinse broccolini under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
• Trim the ends: Cut about 1 inch off the bottom of the stems if they’re tough or dried out.
• Store in the fridge: Wrap broccolini in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag or airtight container in the crisper drawer.
• Optional: Store in water: Place broccolini stems in a jar of water (like flowers in a vase) and cover the florets loosely with a plastic bag to maintain freshness.

How Long Will Broccolini Keep Fresh?

• In the fridge: Fresh broccolini lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
• In water: If stored in water, broccolini may last 4-5 days.

How Long Will Cooked Broccolini Keep?

• In the fridge: Cooked broccolini will last for about 3-4 days in an airtight container.
• Frozen: You can freeze cooked broccolini for up to 3 months, but the texture may change upon reheating.

How to Cut Broccolini

• Trim tough stems: Use a sharp knife to remove any tough or woody ends of the stems, cutting about 1 inch from the bottom.
• Cut into smaller pieces (optional): Depending on the recipe, you can slice the broccolini into smaller pieces, cutting through the stems and florets.
• Leave florets intact for presentation: For a more elegant look, leave the florets whole while cutting the stems into manageable lengths.

Ways to Cook Broccolini

Sautéed Broccolini

• Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add broccolini, cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender and slightly crispy.
• Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic or chili flakes for extra flavor.

Steamed Broccolini

• Bring a pot of water to a boil and place a steamer basket inside.
• Add broccolini to the steamer and cover.
• Steam for 3-5 minutes until bright green and tender but still crisp.
• Season with salt, lemon juice, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Roasted Broccolini

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss broccolini in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy on the edges.

Grilled Broccolini

• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
• Toss broccolini in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Grill for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred and tender.
• Optional: squeeze fresh lemon juice or drizzle with balsamic vinegar for added flavor.

Blanched Broccolini

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add broccolini and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
• Transfer immediately to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
• Use in salads, pastas, or as a side dish.