Avocado lovers know the disappointment of cutting into an overripe avocado. Here’s a tip to help you avoid that and enjoy perfectly ripe avocados:

Ingredients

• Ripe avocados
• Lemon or lime juice (or even vinegar)
• Airtight container or plastic wrap

 

Instructions

1. Select Ripe Avocados: Start with avocados that are still slightly firm but yield to gentle pressure when you squeeze them. Avoid avocados that are too hard or too soft.
2. Cut and Use What You Need: If you only need part of an avocado, cut it in half, leaving the pit in the uneaten half. The pit can help slow down the ripening process.
3. Brush with Citrus Juice: Lightly brush or drizzle lemon or lime juice over the exposed flesh of the unused avocado half. The citric acid helps slow down oxidation, which is what causes avocados to turn brown.
4. Seal Tightly: Wrap the unused avocado half tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Ensure there’s minimal air exposure.
5. Refrigerate: Store the wrapped or containerized avocado in the refrigerator. The cooler temperature slows down the ripening process significantly.
6. Use Within a Day: Try to use the remaining avocado within a day or two to ensure the best flavor and texture.

 

By following these steps, you can make the most of your avocados, even when you don’t need the whole fruit at once. This tip helps extend the shelf life of your avocados and reduces food waste.