How Long to Boil Broccoli

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword broccoli

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 3

Total Time 10

Servings people

Calories 22kcal

water
1 pinch salt
1 head of broccoli (9 ounces / 255 grams with stem or 3 1/2 cup chopped florets)

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and add a pinch of salt.
Meanwhile, cut the broccoli florets into medium bite-sized pieces.
Transfer the broccoli and boil the broccoli for 2 to 3 minutes, tops! If you use the stems, boil them for 2 minutes first, then add the florets for another 2 minutes and taste. Taste to see if it is tender enough. It might need a little more cook time, but when you notice that stunning bright green color, it’s time to drain the broccoli in a colander.
Season and serve.
Let leftovers cool and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

When purchasing fresh broccoli, look for firm florets that are dark green with a purplish hue. This ensures it has more beta-carotene and vitamin C than lighter florets. Avoid buying yellowed florets or limp broccoli.
Depending on the size of the florets, you may need to boil them a bit longer. It depends on personal taste, but florets shouldn’t be cooked longer than 3 minutes to remain crisp and tender.
If using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it. Just drop the florets into the boiling water.