• Cut the broccoli into equal-sized florets (bite-sized)

Cooking the Broccoli

• For soft, firm broccoli boil, steam, blanch or microwave.

Boil

• In a large pot, add a teaspoon of salt and water (¾ full).
• Heat on high until a roaring boil.
• Add the broccoli florets.
• Boil for 3 minutes.
• Remove from the heat, and drain into a colander.
• Use cold water to run over the broccoli to cool it.
• Shake the colander and place wet broccoli onto dry towels or paper towels to remove excess water.

Blanching

• To blanch the broccoli, bring a pan of water to the boil.
• Have a bowl of iced water ready and a tray lined with kitchen paper.
• Cook the broccoli in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes.
• Remove the broccoli with a slotted spoon and plunge it into the bowl of iced water, then leave for another 2-3 minutes.

Steaming/Stovetop

• Add water to a large saucepan and place a steam basket into the pot. 
• Next, place the broccoli into the steam basket. 
• Bring water to a boil and then cover the pot.
• Let the broccoli steam in the pot for 4 minutes
• Remove from heat and enjoy. 

Microwave

• The microwave is a fast, smart way to steam broccoli.
• The only downside is that you have to open it up frequently.
• Add your freshly washed broccoli florets to a microwave-safe bowl.
• Don’t dry them off because you’ll want water clinging to them.
• It’ll drip into the bottom of the bowl; if you don’t see any, add several tablespoons.
• This water will turn into steam.
• Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate.
• Microwave the broccoli on high heat, checking every 30 seconds for doneness.
• All in all, this should take about 3 minutes, although cook time depends on the size of your florets.
• For Crispy Broccoli, Roast of Air Fry

Roasting

• Preheat the oven to 400°F and line with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
• Place the broccoli florets and lemon halves on the baking sheet.
• Spread evenly in a single layer on the baking sheet.
• Roast 15 to 22 minutes or until browned around the edges.

Air-Frying

• Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees.
• Place broccoli in the air fryer tray in a single layer.
• Air fry at 370°F for 8-10 minutes
• Toss halfway through to promote even cooking.

Dressing

• In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine the cashew mayo, maple syrup, dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
• Whisk together to combine.
• Set aside.

Making the Broccoli Salad

• Add the cooled, cooked broccoli to a large bowl.
• Add the rest of the ingredients.
• Pour the dressing over the top, and stir to combine.
• Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.