A Modern Twist on a Classic Veggie

Despite its familiar name, broccolini is not just baby broccoli — it’s actually a hybrid vegetable developed in Japan in the early 1990s. Scientists crossed traditional broccoli with Chinese kale (gai lan) to create a variety with smaller florets, edible stems, and a milder, more versatile flavor. It was introduced to the U.S. shortly after and quickly gained popularity for its sweet taste and tender texture.

In Western New York, broccolini thrives during the cooler spring and fall seasons, when the weather brings out its best flavor and texture. Local farms like Eden Valley Growers and Dirt Rich Farms grow it as part of their late-season greens lineup, making it a standout addition to your FreshFix box when you’re craving something fresh and vibrant.

---

Why Broccolini Deserves a Spot on Your Plate

Broccolini offers the best of both worlds: the familiar flavor of broccoli with the tenderness and sweetness of leafy greens. It’s also a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet.

• High in vitamins A, C, and K: Supports immune health, bone strength, and healthy skin.

• Rich in antioxidants: Helps protect cells and reduce inflammation.

• Contains fiber and calcium: Supports digestion and bone health.

• Low in calories, big on nutrients: One cup of broccolini delivers plenty of vitamins with less than 50 calories.

Because it’s so flavorful on its own, broccolini doesn’t need much to shine — a quick sauté, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt are often all it takes.

---

How to Cook Broccolini

Broccolini’s versatility makes it a dream ingredient for busy cooks. The stems are tender and completely edible, so there’s no waste — just trim the very ends before cooking.

Here are a few favorite ways to prepare it:

• Roasted: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 425°F for 15–20 minutes until the florets are lightly charred.

• Sautéed or stir-fried: Cook quickly in olive oil or sesame oil with garlic, soy sauce, or red pepper flakes for an easy side dish.

• Blanched: Boil briefly, then plunge into ice water to preserve its bright green color and crispness — perfect for salads or grain bowls.

• Grilled: The smoky flavor complements its natural sweetness; finish with a squeeze of lemon and grated Parmesan.

Broccolini pairs beautifully with pasta, seafood, chicken, and even pizza — its mild, slightly nutty flavor complements just about everything.

---

Storage Tips

To keep broccolini fresh and crisp:

1. Refrigerate immediately after unpacking your FreshFix box.

2. Wrap in a damp paper towel and store inside a perforated or breathable plastic bag in the crisper drawer.

3. Use within 4–5 days for best flavor and texture.

4. If it starts to wilt slightly, soak the stems in cold water for 10 minutes before cooking — they’ll perk right back up.

You can also blanch and freeze broccolini to enjoy later. Simply boil for 2 minutes, cool in ice water, dry, and store in freezer-safe bags.

---

Small Stems, Big Flavor

Broccolini might be a newer addition to the local harvest, but it’s already a fan favorite for its versatility, sweet flavor, and quick cooking time. Whether you roast it for a caramelized crunch or toss it into pasta for a burst of green, broccolini proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring.

When you see those slender, green stems in your FreshFix box, try a new recipe or keep it simple — either way, this veggie will bring a bright, flavorful boost to your weeknight meals.

Shop Broccolini