Why is my broccoli purple?!?

Purple broccoli is simply a different variety of broccoli, sometimes called purple head broccoli or rosalind broccoli. It is very similar to regular broccoli except its florets have a purplish color to them and the heads of purple broccoli are typically smaller. Its taste is the same as regular broccoli and it can be use in the same manner.

The purple color is due to formation of anthocyanins, the plant pigments also found in red cabbage and in red wine which have been shown to have positive health benefits.

All varieties of broccoli have a pretty impressive nutritional profile, however, the darker colors of florets contain more beta carotene and vitamin C than those with lighter greens.

Note, the purple color fades to green when cooked.