Get Fresh: Broccoli

    You might confuse this jolly green with its cousins -- here's how to keep the family straight.
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    head of the class

    BROCCOLI: MOST LIKELY TO SUCCEED

    Bio: This well-known member of the cabbage family is leading a crusade against cancer.

    Memorable Moment: It was banished from the White House menu by George H. W. Bush.

    Dress Code: Simmer in chicken stock and puree into soup with cream, salt and pepper.

    Try Orange Beef and Broccoli

    BROCCOLI RABE: MOST CREATIVE

    Bio: This bitter green is a direct descendant of the wild mustard plant.

    Memorable Moment: It recently passed the 30-million mark for bunches sold annually.

    Dress Code: Sauté garlic in olive oil, add broccoli rabe and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

    Try Sauteed Broccoli Rabe

    BROCCOFLOWER: CLASS CLOWN

    Bio: Many think it's a cross between broccoli and cauliflower. But according to the official growers, it's not.

    Memorable Moment: Has been mistaken for its glamorous jet-setting cousin, Romanesco.

    Dress Code: Toss florets with olive oil, salt and pepper, then roast.

    Try Romanesco Broccoli and Rigatoni

    BROCCOLINI: BEST BODY

    Bio: This tasty crossbreed is a mix of Chinese kale and broccoli.

    Memorable Moment: It found an accidental spokeswoman in TV's Christina Broccolini.

    Dress code: Steam florets and sauté with shiitake mushrooms, ginger, salt and pepper.

    Try Broccolini-Basil Spaghetti