by Raksha Hegde last updated -
If you are looking for good broccoli substitutes, you may be amazed by the list of alternatives in the vegetable aisle. Broccoli may rank high on the nutrition chart list, but its bitter taste can put many people off. However, this green cruciferous vegetable has now become a common choice for anybody who is trying to eat healthier food.
Be it the Keto diet, vegan diet, or the military diet, eating broccoli is recommended because it is packed with nutrition and fiber. However, if you are not a broccoli lover or are looking for alternative healthy vegetables to eat, there are many options to choose from. [1]
Top Broccoli Substitutes
The top broccoli substitutes include cruciferous vegetables from the same family (Brassicaceae) such as cauliflower, green cabbage, kale, brussels sprouts and Swiss chard. Other healthy alternatives include spinach and asparagus. [2]
Broccoli belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is the closest substitute you can get to broccoli. They look the same and have a similar texture when grated, steamed, or puréed. Both are low in calories and carbohydrates. However, cauliflower scores less on fiber, protein, and vitamins A, C, and K comparatively.
Spinach
If you are looking to increase your greens in your daily diet, spinach makes a great substitute for broccoli.
Green Cabbage
Green cabbage tastes delicious and gets a crispy texture when stir-fried. It can be added to salads and noodle dishes. Use 1/2 cup shredded cabbage for a cup of the florets. You can also use Napa cabbage or bok choy.
Kale
Kale makes a great superfood substitute as it is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It can be sautéed or eaten raw in salads.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is packed with antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and K and makes a good nutrient-rich alternative. [3]
Brussels Sprouts
Roasted brussels sprouts with garlic and olive oil make an excellent side dish if you cannot stand broccoli.
Asparagus
Just like broccoli, asparagus is rich in folate, fiber, and B vitamins. You can use asparagus in quiches and pasta instead of the cruciferous vegetable.
Collard Greens
Collard greens are nutritious green leafy vegetables which are related to broccoli and make a healthy substitute for the latter.
For all the health enthusiasts out there, here’s broccolini in the shape of a heart. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Other Substitutes
Broccoli rabe can be used, however, it is more bitter to taste. You can also try using broccolini or the more exotic broccoflower.
About the Author
Raksha Hegde is the content director at Organic Facts and helps oversee a team of brilliant, dynamic content writers. She completed her MS in Broadcast Journalism from Boston University, US. A former business news journalist and editor, Raksha followed her passion for wellness to become a certified Yoga teacher and a wellness festival curator. She believes that learning is a life-long process; she did a certificate e-course on “Introduction to Food and Health” in 2019 from Stanford University, US.
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