April in Oklahoma is peak broccoli season! Find it the freshest at the Oklahoma farmers markets during April to June. Rest assured, you can always find broccoli frozen at the grocery store year-round.
Broccoli Nutrition
Broccoli is a great source of fiber and provides natural sources of vitamins A and C. Eating foods with fiber, like broccoli, while drinking plenty of water is good for healthy digestion. Vitamin A and C are important for protecting the body from stress and supporting a strong immune system and healthy skin.
Fresh vs Frozen Broccoli
You can enjoy fresh broccoli raw, steamed or cooked into dishes. When buying fresh broccoli, choose bunches with bright green or purplish-green heads for the best quality. Look for florets that are tightly packed and firm, loose florets may be overripe or dried out. The stem should be firm to touch, not soft or mushy. Be sure to use it within a few days after purchase as it will spoil.
You can find frozen broccoli at the grocery store year round. Frozen broccoli stays good in storage for longer than fresh, however, can lose some nutrients the longer they are frozen. Be sure to use them within 6 months after storing. Frozen broccoli is a quick option to add into many dishes for shorter prep time.You can use frozen broccoli in just as many dishes that use fresh broccoli, just make sure it has been thawed & drained beforehand when necessary!
Tip: Broccoli stems are just as packed with nutrients as the florets are! Before you toss them, remove the outer layer of the stem and use the inner flesh in more broccoli recipes. Use them shredded in coleslaws, sliced thin in salads or stir-fries.
5 Dinner Recipes Using Broccoli
Beef & Broccoli Ramen
Looking for a quick Asian-inspired dinner? Try our Beef & Broccoli Ramen recipe. This dish combines tender flank steak, frozen vegetables, and zesty seasoning for a flavor-packed meal in minutes! Frozen broccoli with other stir-fry vegetables make preparation a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Broccoli Salad
Discover the perfect side dish to your meals: our Broccoli Salad! Made with fresh broccoli and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s a flavorful addition to any meal. Use any extra leftover fresh broccoli as a healthy way to enjoy your favorite dip!
Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Casserole
Our Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Casserole is a convenient, delicious dish made with frozen broccoli. Enjoy the convenience of using frozen broccoli without sacrificing the taste! The perfect recipe for busy weeknights that is sure to be a hit for both kids and adults.
Sheet Pan Turkey Sausage & Veggies
Try our Sheet Pan Turkey Sausage & Veggies recipe! With the ease of cooking everything on a single pan, this dish is perfect for when you don’t want to have a huge cleanup job at the end of the evening. Toss ingredients together, season, put it in the oven, and relax while it cooks!
Asian Beef & Broccoli Wraps
Introducing our Asian Beef & Broccoli Wraps that can be cooked with fresh or frozen broccoli! With the ease of cooking everything in one pan, this recipe is a game-changer for prepping lunches ahead of time. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready with six servings!
Summary
Broccoli is the freshest in Oklahoma during the months of April. If you can’t find it fresh, try it frozen as it is just as nutritious and full of flavor as fresh is. We hope you try one of our 5 dinner recipes using broccoli. Let us know which is your favorite in the comments below!