5 from 84 votes
How to Blanch Broccoli
This recipe explains how to blanch broccoli florets to achieve a bright green color and a slightly tender texture. The process involves briefly boiling broccoli pieces of uniform size, then immediately cooling them in ice water to stop the cooking. This method preserves the broccoli’s color, texture, and nutrients, making it ready for further cooking or freezing. Salt is optional for seasoning the boiling water.
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Additional Time
5 mins
Total Time
20 mins
Servings:
6
servings (1/2 cup each)
Calories:
51 kcal
Course:
Salad
Cuisine:
American
Ingredients
- 2 pounds broccoli florets
- 2 teaspoons salt (optional)
Instructions
- Bring 4 quarts water and 2 teaspoons salt to a rapid boil. Fill a large bowl with cold water and ice.
- Carefully lower the broccoli florets into the boiling water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. The broccoli should be bright green and just barely tender.
- With a slotted spoon, remove the broccoli and immediately plunge into the ice water.
- When the broccoli is completely cool, drain it from the ice water and pat dry with a paper towel.
Cup of Yum
Notes
- Cut broccoli florets to a uniform size for even cooking results.
- Select broccoli with firm stalks and bright green florets free of yellowing or spots.
- Store whole broccoli in an open bag within the refrigerator and use within 3-4 days for best freshness.
- Leftover blanched broccoli can be refrigerated covered for up to 4 days.
- This recipe yields approximately six servings, each about half a cup of blanched broccoli.
Nutrition Information
Serving
0.5 cup
Calories
51kcal
(3%)
Carbohydrates
10g
(3%)
Protein
4g
(8%)
Fat
1g
(2%)
Saturated Fat
1g
(5%)
Sodium
825mg
(34%)
Potassium
478mg
(10%)
Fiber
4g
(16%)
Sugar
3g
(6%)
Vitamin A
942IU
(19%)
Vitamin C
135mg
(150%)
Calcium
72mg
(7%)
Iron
1mg
(6%)
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 6 servings (1/2 cup each)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 51
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 0.5 cup | |
| Calories | 51kcal | 3% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 825mg | 34% |
| Potassium | 478mg | 10% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 942IU | 19% |
| Vitamin C | 135mg | 150% |
| Calcium | 72mg | 7% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.