Few produce items have a longer season than one of our sturdy stand-bys: broccoli.

Once you score a head of the vegetable, it’s important to know how to clean broccoli.

What Is Broccoli?

washing broccoli in colander

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Broccoliis a cruciferous vegetable and a member of the cabbage family.

As such, it shares many attributes withcauliflower.

Both the stalks and the florets are edible and packed with valuable nutrients.

The cruciferous plant also delivers a surprising amount of protein for a vegetable2 grams per 1 cup.

Broccoli is usually found in the produce aisle alongside cauliflower.

Transfer the cut stalks and florets to a regular round colander or a handy over-the-sink colander.

Position the vegetables under running watercold or warm, just not scorching hot.

Once each piece has been rinsed, proceed with yourbroccoli recipe.

Fill a large bowl with cold or warm water.

Rinse the broccoli again under running water while it’s still in the colander.

Fill a large bowl with 2 23 cups cold or warm water and 13 cup white vinegar.

Allow the broccoli to soak for 2 minutes, then dump it into a colander.

Rinse the vinegar-treated broccoli very well under running water.

Store fresh heads of broccoli, ideally unrinsed, in the refrigerator for 7 to 10 days.

Compost or discard broccoli if it looks slimy or smells off.

Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for at least 6 months.

“EWG’S 2024 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce.”

“Broccoli, raw.”

U.S. Department of Agriculture FoodData Central.

“Washing Produce.”

U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service.

“Selecting and Serving Produce Safely.”

U.S. Food and Drug Administration.