What is the purpose of blanching vegetables?

Blanching vegetables involves quickly cooking them in boiling water for a short period, followed by immediately plunging them into ice water to stop the cooking process. The primary purpose of this technique is to preserve the color, texture, and nutrient content of the vegetables. When vegetables are blanched, the heat from the boiling water helps to set their vibrant colors and maintain their crunchy texture, which is often desired in cooking and presentation. Additionally, blanching helps to inactivate enzymes that can lead to nutrient loss and undesirable changes in flavor and texture during storage. This preservation aspect is essential, especially when vegetables are intended for freezing or later cooking, as it ensures they remain appealing and nutritious.