How to Keep Cooked Broccoli Bright Green

Last Updated: September 16, 2021 Approved

When cooking broccoli, or any other greens for that matter, there is nothing worse than having them come out an unhealthy bland color. There is a way to preserve the bright green color in your vegetables, and it is easier than you may think.

Ingredients

Fresh broccoli, or any other green vegetables
Large pot of water
Salt

Steps

1
Be careful not to steam green vegetables. Green vegetables contain chlorophyll, when chlorophyll is cooked, it produces carbon dioxide. Since you have to cover the vegetables to steam them, the chlorophyll turns a drab, grayish color. You can prevent this by boiling the greens, in salted water.^{[1]
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2
Use a large amount of water, then add salt. The recipe calls for one ounce for every four cups of water. The salt provides a "barrier" against the carbon dioxide, and keeps the chlorophyll green.^{[2]
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3
Always bring the water to a boil before you add the vegetables. This will ensure the pores on the vegetables will be quickly blocked, and prevent vitamins and minerals from leaching out into the water.^{[3]
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4
Cook the vegetables until they are tender. You do not want to overcook or undercook them. For broccoli, about 5-7 minutes,^{[4]
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5
It is also important to stop the cooking process as soon as the vegetable is cooked perfectly. The best way to do this is a quick ice bath. Strain the vegetables into a colander, then dip them into a bowl, or sink, of ice cold water. This prevents accidental overcooking.^{[5]
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6
Prepare your vegetables however you like them, and enjoy them with your eyes, as well as your taste buds.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I keep greens green while cooking?

Community Answer

Blanching, or shocking the cooked greens in ice water, preserves the green color.
Question

Should I add baking soda to my green vegetables to keep them green while cooking?

Community Answer

A small pinch of baking soda and/or salt will keep your veggies nice and green. You want to stay away from acidic fruits such as lemons because they will speed up the browning process. Make sure you buy quality veggies and use lots of water when boiling!
Question

How do I reheat the broccoli?

Community Answer

To reheat broccoli, put it in the microwave for 30 seconds, or in oven at 300 degrees for 5 minutes.