As seen in Simply Recipes.
I admit there’s something a little intimidating about a whole, fresh pineapple. There’s the question of how to pick a good one, and then more questions about coring and slicing. And in between, I’m never quite sure what to do with the fruit while it’s hanging out in my kitchen: Does it go in the fridge, or is it perfectly fine on the counter?
Leave it to the pineapple pros at Del Monte to have this last answer (plus a few more). Read on for tips on this essential summer fruit.
How to Store Whole Pineapple
Don’t be tempted to put the pineapple in the fridge, says Ana Cristina Fonseca, vice president, product management for Fresh Del Monte, North America. “Leave it to sit out on the counter in a cool and dark place,” she advises. “Pineapples do not need to ripen further after purchase.”
How Long Can You Keep Whole Pineapple?
Whole pineapples are harvested when they are ripe, so Fonseca says it’s best to eat one as soon as possible after it’s brought home. “You can expect a whole pineapple to last 3 to 5 days after purchase,” she says, stressing that this timeline is only effective if it’s stored properly. Also, never wrap a whole pineapple for storage or put it in a container—it has all the protection it needs.
Once a pineapple has been sliced, it’s okay to store any leftovers in the fridge. Package them in an airtight container for up to one week.
How to Choose a Perfect Pineapple
When you’re searching for a ripe one at the store, “Look for one that is firm to the touch and has fresh, bright green leaves on the crown,” Fonseca says. “Avoid fruit that is noticeably soft and has dried brown leaves.”
Fonseca points out a viral TikTok hack that has been getting a lot of attention. Tug at the inner leaves on the top of a pineapple; if they pull out easily, it’s likely ripe.
Appearance and scent matter, too. Select a pineapple that looks symmetrical and seems heavy for its size. Sniff the pineapples and look for one that has a sweet, fruity smell. And once you have that perfectly ripe fruit, you can whip up a taste of summer on the grill.
