Broccoli, when cooked until soft, may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age.

Recommended Guide: 50 Fantastic First Foods

In Italian, the name “broccoli” translates to the “sprouts of cabbage,” which is appropriate given the edible flower’s origins. The broccoli bloom is a brassica—a diverse plant family that includes collard greens, gai lan, kale, kohlrabi, turnip, and many other common vegetables bred thousands of years ago from wild cabbage in the lands around the Mediterranean Sea. Cultivated broccoli fueled the Roman Empire long before it traveled with human migration and trade to other parts of the world, including North America, where Italian immigrants popularized the cruciferous vegetables in the 20th century. Today, broccoli florets are one of the most widely consumed vegetables in the United States, though the leaves and stems are edible, too.

Yes. Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse. Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports eye health. Broccoli also contains vitamin B6 and folate, for growth and brain development, as well as fiber for healthy digestion. Powerful phytochemicals, like sulforaphane, also abound in broccoli and may inhibit the development of several types of cancer. 

There are numerous varieties of broccoli to try, each with its own nutritional profile: romanesco, a gorgeous lime-green variety with fractal blooms; purple sprouting broccoli; and broccoli rabe, a more bitter, leafy variety.

★Tip: Steaming or microwaving broccoli (as opposed to boiling) helps retain its nutrients.  Roasting broccoli works, too, though this method may yield a tougher texture. For young babies, steamed broccoli has the benefit of softness for their tender gums.

Yes, raw or undercooked broccoli is firm and hard to chew. To minimize the risk, cook broccoli until soft and cut broccoli stems in half lengthwise. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meal time. For more information on choking, visit our sections on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with the list of common choking hazards.

No. Allergies to broccoli are rare, but possible.    Individuals who are allergic or sensitive to other members of the cruciferous family, such as mustard greens and cauliflower, may also be sensitive to broccoli.    People who are allergic to mugwort may be allergic to broccoli or experience Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as pollen-food allergy). Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

Yes. Broccoli offers excellent amounts of soluble and insoluble fibers, glucosinolates, and phenolic compounds that, together, contribute to overall digestive health and bowel regularity.      Note that pooping patterns can vary significantly from baby to baby. Be sure to talk to your pediatric healthcare provider if you have concerns about your baby’s pooping and digestive function.

Serve steamed broccoli florets alongside a dip (herby yogurt!), dressing (peanut sauce!), or spread (hummus!) and show baby how to swipe a piece of broccoli for extra flavor. You can try cooking broccoli in stir-fries with beef, mushrooms, or tofu and stir in ramen noodles or your favorite pasta to round out the meal. Broccoli can be blended with herbs and olive oil to make a simple sauce for chicken or pasta. Finally, try shredding raw broccoli florets to make egg cups, egg strips, or egg frittatas. Want to keep it simple for baby? You can’t go wrong with steamed broccoli with a simple lemon vinaigrette.