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Broccoli & Cauliflower

Photo of a head of broccoli growing in a garden
Photo of cauliflower
Photo of Brussels Sprouts
Photo credits (left to right): Photo credits (top to bottom): Flickr: Linda N.; Flickr: Nick Saltmarsh; Flickr: Clyde Robinson

Foods Included

Broccoli, Gai Lan (Chinese Broccoli), Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts, Broccoflower, Broccolini

Description

Broccoli and brussels sprouts are typically green, while cauliflower can come in white, purple, or orange varieties. These vegetables taste slightly bitter when eaten raw, but much sweeter after being cooked.

Buy It

  • Choose broccoli with tight, green florets and firm stalks.
  • Broccoli and cauliflower should feel heavy for its size.
  • Brussels sprouts should be firm, compact, bright green, and free of yellow or wilted leaves.

Store It

  • Store broccoli and cauliflower unwashed in an open plastic bag in fridge. Don't store on the counter. Use within 1 week.
  • Store brussels sprouts in the refridgerator in a container without a lid to keep for several weeks.

Cook It

  • Rinse under running water.
  • Eat raw, steamed, roasted, or sautéed.
  • Cut broccoli and cauliflower florets into uniform pieces for even cooking; steam for 3-4 minutes or simmer in 1 inch of boiling water for 3-4 minutes.
  • Cooked broccoli should be bright green and tender-crisp; overcooked turns dark green and has lost nutrients.
  • For brussels sprouts, remove stems and yellow/discolored leaves; steam; can be eaten as a snack seasoned with salt/pepper

Why It's Great

Broccoli and Cauliflower:

  • Vitamin A keeps our eyes working, our immune system strong, and our cells growing.
  • Vitamin C keeps our immune system strong and helps our bodies heal quickly.
  • Vitamin D is essential for strong bones.  Our body also absorbs Vitamin D from the sun.
  • Fiber helps with healthy digestion and keeps us feeling full.  Eating enough fiber has been shown to keep our hearts healthy too.

Brussels Sprouts:

  •  Folate, or folic acid, helps our tissues grow and our cells work. Especially important for pregnant women.
  • Potassium, a type of electrolyte, helps build muscle and keeps your heart healthy.
  • Vitamin A keeps our eyes working, our immune system strong, and our cells growing.
  • Vitamin C keeps our immune system strong and helps our bodies heal quickly. 

Try It

Chinese Broccoli with Wine & Sugar
10 mins
thumbnail
Broccoli with Garlic
8 mins
Photo of Broccoli with Garlic
Cauliflower Salad
30 mins
Cauliflower salad with tomatoes and olives
Cauliflower Soup
30 mins
Photo of prepared Cauliflower Soup
Broccoli Salad
10 mins
Photo of the prepared recipe
Brussels Sprout Hash and Eggs
10 mins
Eggs, hash, and brussels sprout

“Funded by USDA SNAP, an equal opportunity provider and employer. Visit http://calfreshhealthyliving.org for healthy tips.”