Pineapple on wood table

Seasonality:

  • Pineapples are available year-round, with peak season running from March through July.

Health Benefits of Pineapple:

  • Pineapples are a good source of Vitamin C, manganese, copper and folate.
  • Pineapples are the only source of the plant compound bromelain, which is associated many health benefits, such as enhanced immune function, cancer prevention, improved wound healing and better gut health.

How to Pick a Pineapple:

  • Choose fresh-looking pineapples with green leaves and a firm shell. The pineapple should also have a small amount of “give” when squeezed gently.
  • Make sure the pineapple feels heavy, not hollow.
  • You should be able to smell the distinctive pineapple smell when you put your nose close to the bottom of the fruit.

How to Store a Pineapple:

  • Pineapples will keep longer if refrigerated in a perforated plastic bag, up to 3-5 days.
  • If using within 1-2 days, store pineapples at room temperature.

How to Prepare a Pineapple:

  • To cut a pineapple, start by cutting off the crown and bottom. Stand pineapple up and cut away the peel in strips, deep enough to remove the eyes. Cut in half lengthwise, then halve each half to give you four quarters. Cut out and discard the core from the center of each quarter. Cut into chunks slices or bits or whatever you prefer and enjoy!
  • There are many gadgets available for cutting a pineapple, our favorite is a pineapple corer. A pineapple corer is a great tool to have in the kitchen and they are easy to use.

Fun Facts About Pineapple:

  • The pineapple gets its English name from the look-a-like pinecone.
  • It takes almost 3 years for a single pineapple to reach maturation. Once harvested, pineapples don’t continue to ripen.

Pineapple tips & tricks you may not know about.