Romanesco broccoli looks as if it should be in a museum rather than on a dinner plate.
What is it? As its name suggests, it's related to broccoli, belonging to the same family of vegetables that also includes cauliflower, cabbage and kale. The beautiful Romanesco, with its spiral segments, is sometimes called fractal broccoli because of the resemblence of a small segment, when examined close up, to a larger piece viewed from farther away.
When is it in season? Like many cruciferous vegetables, it's considered best in winter.
How to choose: as you would broccoli and cauliflower. Look for heavy, tightly closed, firm heads with no bruises or soft spots.
What else? It's believed by some that Romanesco broccoli is a cross between broccoli and cauliflower, but it's almost certainly a unique vegetable.
How to use: you can cook Romanesco broccoli as you would cauliflower and broccoli. For a dramatic presentation, steam or boil the vegetable whole until barely tender, drain it well then cut it apart at the table and serve with cheese sauce.