Picking a pineapple can be a bit overwhelming. They really all look the same to me. Looking a little closer, it really is what’s inside that counts, and there are a few tips for finding the best ones. First, a pineapple should yield slightly when grasped firmly. It should not be squishy and should not be rock hard, look for a happy medium. The color of the pineapple flesh might not be the best indicator of ripeness, because some pineapple is actually ripe when they are still green. It is good however to check the flesh for cuts, bruises, squishy spots, and mold (ew). Check out the leaves, they should be well formed, and a nice green color. Smell is the final indicator, and one of the most important. Pineapple fruit should smell sweet and fragrant, but not overly sweet and definitely not vinegar like. Vinegar smell is a sign that the fruit is fermenting.

I make a disaster when cutting certain fruits. My most dreaded fruits for cutting are mangoes and pineapple. I decided to tackle this head on, because I can’t be the only one.

I make a disaster when cutting certain fruits. My most dreaded fruits for cutting are mangoes and pineapple. I decided to tackle this head on, because I can’t be the only one.

The first step is to cut off both ends of the pineapple, thus removing the leaves, and also cutting the bottom off, which will create a base.

Secondly, set the pineapple on one end (I do this bottom down). Using a sharp chef’s knife, cut down the pineapple, removing the outer layer or the skin. Do this in small sections, following all around the outside of the pineapple.

Secondly, set the pineapple on one end (I do this bottom down). Using a sharp chef’s knife, cut down the pineapple, removing the outer layer or the skin. Do this in small sections, following all around the outside of the pineapple.

Forth, determine the way you will be using the pineapple.

If you are cutting into rings, lay the pineapple down and make cuts that are parallel to the cuts you make removing the top and bottom. Then using a round cookie cutter or biscuit cutter, remove the core from each piece.

If you are cutting into rings, lay the pineapple down and make cuts that are parallel to the cuts you make removing the top and bottom. Then using a round cookie cutter or biscuit cutter, remove the core from each piece.

Fifth, ENJOY! Fresh fruit is a delicious treat!

See our Table Talk section for a great recipe for grilled pineapple!