The long slender stems resemble asparagus and the buds on top broccoli.

Although it looks somewhat asparagus, these vegetables are not related in any way.It is entirely edible and can be cooked just like asparagus with the enjoyment of broccoli. Broccolini needs no preparation before cooking. It was developed with food service in mind, but is gaining popularity on the retail market. This cross between Chinese Kale (Gai-lon) and broccoli gives Broccolini an enchanting characteristic. When eaten raw, it has a tender yet crunchy characteristic. My children like it with ranch dressing as a dip or even yes, peanut butter! I know, I know, but at least they're eating it! They love the name "baby broccoli" so when we give it to them that's what we call it.

The texture of the stem is less fibrous than broccoli or asparagus and does not need to be peeled before eaten.

Baby broccoli has a sweet, delicate flavor with a subtle peppery "edge" and gets sweeter and milder when cooked.

Broccolini can be angel cut and tossed into a stir-fry. I like to leave it whole and throw it in at the end to keep it crunchy. It can be steamed with other veggies or on its own. It can be eaten raw in salads or pasta salads or sauteed in a little olive oil.

I always cook enough to have some left over. The next day I will take about four Broccolini - some chopped or shredded raw cabbage, Shredded carrots, tomatoes, sprouts (any kind, but radish really do it!) Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese, lemon pepper, celery seeds and add your favorite vinaigrette dressing, wrap it all up into a flavorful tortilla and have a salad wrap with broccolini. It- is- de-licious!

Another way to do this is to lay out the broccolini on the tortilla and add some sharp cheddar and other veggies wrap it all up and put it in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds. Try it in omelets Broccolini, a name trademarked by the largest grower of this vitamin packed vegetable Mann Packing in Salinas California is also marketed as "Baby Broccoli."

Broccolini was developed by the Sakata Seed Company in Morgan Hill California. Mann wanted a broccoli seed that could be grown in warmer climates like one of Broccolini's parents gailon. The plant is hand cultivated and takes about 60 to 90 days from seed to harvest. The plant still loves the cool coastal growing climates which gives it a sweeter and unique tasting baby broccoli.

Because of the intense labor involved in harvesting it is a little pricey, but it is well worth it especially if you are a broccoli lover.

Nutrition: 30% Vitamin A, 130% Vitamin C, 6% Calcium, & 4% Iron.