3 Simple Ways to Quickly Determine If Your Broccoli Is Bad

Broccoli is a popular vegetable that frequently graces the dinner table. It's a versatile and nutritious choice, packed with vitamins and fiber. However, if you’ve had a head of broccoli sitting around for a while, you might be wondering how to check if it’s still good to eat.

How to Store Broccoli

Fresh broccoli should have tender florets and firm, slightly crunchy stalks. But improper storage can lead to shriveled florets and soft, rubbery stalks. For maximum freshness, store broccoli in the fridge, not on the counter or in the pantry. After purchasing, wrap the broccoli loosely in a plastic or perforated bag with the stalks facing out.

In the crisper drawer, broccoli will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. For a little extra life, wrap the stalks in a damp paper towel, which can extend freshness for about 4 to 7 days.

How to Tell If Broccoli Is No Longer Fresh

We've all found ourselves staring at a head of broccoli that's been sitting around too long, unsure if it's still good to eat. If you’re not sure whether your broccoli is still fresh, here are three signs that it’s time to let it go. And if you’re still uncertain, remember: when in doubt, throw it out. It's better to waste food than risk eating something spoiled.

Look

Examine the florets and stalks carefully. Look for signs like mold, dark spots, or black dots—these all indicate that your broccoli is no longer safe to eat. Also, check for yellowing or any signs of sprouting.

If the small buds on your broccoli are starting to bloom, that's a clear sign it's past its peak. Any brown patches or sections of dried-out, shriveled florets should also be discarded, as they won’t taste good.

Sniff

Broccoli has a distinctive scent, but fresh, raw broccoli shouldn't be too overpowering. If you get a strong, off-putting odor, it's a clear sign the vegetable is rotting. As bacteria break down the broccoli, it releases a foul smell that is much stronger than the usual earthy scent.

Feel

Fresh broccoli should feel firm and vibrant. The florets should be tightly packed, and the stalk should be a rich green. If the florets easily bend or break apart, and the stalk feels limp or wilted, your broccoli is starting to spoil.

Broccoli that’s going bad will feel dry, and the cut end of the stalk will appear shriveled and white. If there are no other signs of spoilage, but the texture seems off, you can use a simple trick to revive it for dinner.

How to Revitalize Wilted Broccoli

If your broccoli is starting to wilt but is still good, there’s an easy fix. Start by chopping it into bite-sized pieces. For the stalk, peel off the tough outer layer with a vegetable peeler, then cut it into smaller pieces too.

Fill a salad spinner with cold water and add a few ice cubes. Submerge the broccoli into the ice water and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Once done, remove the strainer and drain the broccoli. This process should restore its crispness and texture.