Simple Steps to Selecting Ripe Fruit
By Nicole Kiley, MSc, RD
There is nothing worse than purchasing a piece of fruit that is either too old or not yet ripe. Especially avocados (those suckers ain’t cheap)! Today we are going to blow your mind with simple steps to selecting ripe fruit. Do your kids go to the store with you? Keep them entertained by giving them the job of picking the perfect fruit!
The Avocado
Follow these bulletproof steps to ensure your next avocado has a creamy, luscious green interior.
Step 1: Select an avocado that is firm, but gives slightly upon squeezing. We don’t want an avocado brick or a mushy mess.
Step 2: Pull back the stem. That’s the little nob on the top of the avocado. Don’t be scared, flick that sucker right off. If you expose a bright green goddess, you’re good to go. If it’s dark, put it down and slowly back away.
The Pineapple
We’ve all stared at a pineapple and thought, “Where do I start.” Not anymore!
Step 1: Select a pineapple that is plump and fresh looking. A pineapple with green leaves is a good indicator of freshness.
Step 2: The body should be firm – not soft. It’s important to note that the color of the pineapple does not necessarily indicate ripeness. Green pineapples can be ripe too.
Step 3: A pineapple will not ripen any further after it is picked. Plan to consume your pineapple early in the week, or keep it refrigerated to preserve freshness.
The Honeydew
Use these steps to select the perfect melon!
Step 1: Choose a honeydew that is uniform in color, ranging from yellow to white. Avoid honeydews with green coloring, as this indicates under-ripeness.
Step 2: Select a melon that is free of soft or discolored spots.
Step 3: Choose a honeydew that is heavy for its size, as this is a sign of increased sweetness. Honeydews will continue to ripen after being harvested.
Step 4: Give it a sniff. Perfectly ripe honeydew will have fresh, sweet sent.
Nicole is the Head Registered Dietitian at The Dolce Diet. She believes that long-term health is achieved through an individualized approach to nutrition that is not only evidence-based, but also sustainable and enjoyable. Serving both our private clients and professional athletes, Nicole aims to empower individuals with confidence and education, fully equipping them to reach and maintain their health goals.
