Vegetable Facts and Easy Recipes

Broccoli

·     Broccoli contains twice the vitamin C of an orange

·     It has almost as much calcium as whole milk--and the calcium is better absorbed

·     It contains selenium, a mineral that has been found to have anti-cancer and anti-viral properties

Did you know that cutting broccoli into smaller pieces and the stems into thin slices and letting them sit for 5 to 6 minutes before cooking will enhance their cancer protective properties? Also, we absorb the vitamin C a little better once the broccoli has been steamed or boiled so try out this recipe and add more broccoli to your diet:

Roasted Garlic Lemon Broccoli (makes six servings)

2 head broccoli, sliced into florets, let stand five minutes

2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil

I teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

Preheat oven to 400 degree F (200 degrees C)

In a large bowl toss broccoli florets with extra-virgin olive oil, sea salt, pepper and garlic.

Spread the broccoli out in an even layer on a baking sheet.

Bake in preheated oven until the florets are tender enough to pierce the stems with a fork, 15-20 minutes.

Remove and transfer to a serving platter. Squeeze lemon juice liberally over the broccoli before serving for a refreshing, tangy finish.

 

More interesting facts about vegetables, their most helpful nutrients, and how to best incorporate them into your diet to come!