Don’t just grab any pineapple in the pile at the store.
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These spiky tropical fruits got their name from the English due to resembling a pine cone.
While they’re available year-round, peak seasonpineapplesare available March through July.
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Here are our best tips to find the juiciest, most delicious fruit in the bunch.
That’s right, choosing a pineapple at it’s peak is essential.
Smell It
Take a whiff of the bottom.
The pineapple should have a rich, sweet, and fruity fragrance.
“Usually how much pineapple you smell, the more ripe it is,” McConnell says.
“The ones that aren’t ripe don’t smell like pineapple at all.”
If the smell is overpowering or emits a fermented smell, it’s probably too far gone to eat.
Basically, if it smells good, it will taste good.
If the pineapple is very dark yellow or on the verge of looking orange, it’s probably overripe.
Also, the leaves should be crisp and green rather than brown or yellow.
Observe Size and Weight
An average size pineapple weighs between 2 and 5 pounds.
If it feels light or hollow, it’s not good.
Touch It
You’ll want to pick a pineapple that is firm, but not too firm.
It should be slightly soft to the touch when putting gentle pressure on the fruit.
Avoid skin that has many soft spots or is mushy to touch.
Tug on a Leaf
A go-to method that always works for McConnellpulling on the leaves.
To extend the life, refrigerated it for up a couple more days.
