When choosing broccoli raab at the grocery store or farmers market, be sure to examine its three main parts: stems, leaves and florets.

All three should be a pretty, deep green color with no yellow, brown or black spots (though the tiny yellow flowers that sometimes appear on the florets are fine -- and edible).

The stems of the broccoli raab should be firm, its leaves healthy-looking -- not wilted or slimy -- and its florets compact and firm.