Produce
How long does broccoli last in the fridge?
Broccoli and rapini keep 3–5 days in the fridge — yellowing florets are the cue to cook it tonight, not to throw it out.
Fridge, from purchase
How long does it keep?
| Fridge, from purchase | 3–5 days |
|---|---|
| Freezer, from purchase | 10–12 months |
Can you freeze broccoli? YES, FREEZE IT →
Can it sit out?
Broccoli is shelf-stable, so sitting out at room temperature isn’t the safety question — storage time is.
How to tell if broccoli has gone bad
- Florets turning yellow, then browning off
- A strong sulfur smell when you open the crisper
- Stalks that bend instead of snapping
- Slimy black spots on the crown
When in doubt, throw it out.
Store it loose and dry rather than sealed in plastic — a bagged head sweats and yellows early.
Quick answers
How long does broccoli last in the fridge?
Broccoli and rapini keep 3–5 days in the fridge — yellowing florets are the cue to cook it tonight, not to throw it out.
Can you freeze broccoli?
Blanch broccoli, freeze it in florets, and it holds 10–12 months — a long way past the 3–5 days a head gets in the fridge.
How long can broccoli sit out?
Sitting out at room temperature isn’t the safety question for broccoli — storage time is.