Step 1

Bring 4 quarts water and 2 teaspoons salt to a rapid boil. Fill a large bowl with cold water and ice.

Step 2

Carefully lower the broccoli florets into the boiling water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. The broccoli should be bright green and just barely tender.

Step 3

With a slotted spoon, remove the broccoli and immediately plunge into the ice water.

Step 4

When the broccoli is completely cool, drain it from the ice water and pat dry with a paper towel.