Prepare the Broccoli:

• Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold running water. Trim the stems and cut the broccoli into florets of even size so they cook evenly.

Bring Water to a Boil:

• In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. You can add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water if desired, which helps preserve the color and enhance the flavor of the broccoli.

Blanch the Broccoli:

• Once the water is boiling, add the broccoli florets. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes. The broccoli should become bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Be careful not to overcook it, as the goal is to keep the broccoli crunchy and fresh.

Prepare the Ice Bath:

• While the broccoli is cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water. This will stop the cooking process immediately once the broccoli is removed from the hot water.

Transfer to Ice Bath:

• After 2-3 minutes of cooking, remove the broccoli from the boiling water using a slotted spoon or tongs. Immediately transfer it into the ice bath to halt the cooking process and preserve the bright green color.

Drain and Serve:

• After about 3-5 minutes in the ice bath, remove the broccoli and let it drain. You can serve it immediately as a side dish, toss it in a salad, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for later use.