Can You Boil Broccoli & Carrots at the Same Time?

By: Maxine Wallace

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Broccoli and carrots are a complementary pair when served together in a side dish. This colorful combination packs in the vitamins, texture and flavor and can be dressed up with a variety of sauces or served with just a touch of salt. Save time in the kitchen by cooking these two together for a simple side that can be prepared in one pot.

Boiling Broccoli and Carrots

Broccoli takes slightly less time to cook than carrots; start cooking the carrots first to ensure both vegetables are done at the same time or cut the carrots much smaller than the broccoli to cook the two together for the same amount of time. Cut broccoli into 1-inch florets and slice carrots into 1/8- to 1/4-inch slices to boil the two together; cook for 5 minutes or until vegetables are fork tender, stirring occasionally. For thicker slices of carrots, add the carrots to boiling water 2 to 3 minutes before adding the broccoli; add broccoli and cook for 5 minutes or until both are fork tender.