Broccoli should be boiled for about 2 to 3 minutes to achieve a bright green color and a crisp-tender texture. If cooking broccoli stems, boil them first for about 2 minutes, then add the florets for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Avoid boiling longer than 3 minutes to prevent sogginess and loss of color. For more tender broccoli, an extra 30 seconds to a minute may be necessary, but overcooking leads to yellowing and a mushy texture.
