Broccoli is popular as a raw vegetable commonly used for dipping in cold spreads, such as ranch or sour cream. But there is so much more that can be done with it. First off, simply steaming the broccoli and then dousing it in jalapeño pepper jack cheese blended with sharp cheddar makes an amazing snack with microbrews.
Broccoli cooks well with chicken in a wok with sweet and sour sauces or General Tsao's sauce, or even just soy sauce. In addition to the aforementioned dish ideas, Cauliflower is delicious when cooked in a quality curry because it absorbs the flavors so well while maintaining and wonderfully soft but fresh texture.
Broccoli is regarded by many as a "miracle food." This is because its health benefits are so broad it's hard to believe. It is packed with more important vitamins and nutrients than any other vegetable (expect perhaps spinach) such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and folic acid.
Broccoli is also considered to be one of the top sources of calcium for those who do not consume dairy products. Calcium has not only been shown to fortify bones, but to cut down on high blood pressure and perhaps prevent colon cancer as well.
Broccoli is filled with beta-carotene and antioxidants as well as providing equal doses of soluble and insoluble fiber, both important forms of fiber, all at the same time. Cauliflower's health benefits are quite similar to broccolis while it also provides a notable dose of potassium, a mineral necessary for the building of muscle and for normal body growth.
