The spiky shell of a pineapple or fuzzy skin of a kiwi may have you thinking twice before choosing them as a snack, but don’t let their complex exteriors stop you from enjoying a fresh piece of fruit! We asked BCBSKS corporate chef Steve Harvey to demonstrate how to cut a pineapple, avocado and kiwi. Follow this step-by-step guide and you’ll be a produce slicing pro in no time!

Pineapple

When selecting a pineapple, look for one in which the body is plump and firm. The leaves at the top should be green and look fresh and healthy. Contrary to popular belief, the ease of pulling the leaves from the crown does not indicate ripeness. The color of the shell doesn’t necessarily indicate ripeness either. It can vary from green to golden, but pineapples do not ripen further after being picked.

1. Lay the pineapple on its side and cut off the top and bottom.
2. Stand the pineapple upright and carefully begin removing the spiky shell by running a knife down its sides.
3. After the shell has been removed and while the pineapple is still upright, cut it into quarters.
4. Take one of the four pieces and stand it upright on the cutting board. Run a knife down the inside to remove the hard piece of core. Repeat for the other three pieces.
5. After removing the pieces of core, cut the remaining pieces into chunks or slices as needed.

Avocado

Avocados can take a few days to ripen, so keep that in mind when you’re picking one out. You’ll know the avocado is ready to eat when the skin darkens in color and overall, feels heavier. It should also yield to light pressure if you gently squeeze it.

1. Remove the stem from the top of the avocado.
2. Place the avocado on the cutting board and use a small knife to carefully cut the avocado lengthwise around the pit.
3. Gently twist the avocado to separate it into two halves.
4. To remove the pit, place the avocado back on the cutting board and carefully tap a knife into the pit. Twist the knife to loosen the pit from the flesh and remove it from the avocado.
5. Use a large spoon to loosen the flesh from the skin and then scoop the avocado out.
6. Slice or mash the avocado as needed.

Kiwi

Picking out a kiwi may be easier than you think. The skin should be free from blemishes, no matter what size of kiwi you’re considering. To tell if it’s ripe, gently press a finger onto its skin. If the kiwi gives to the pressure, it’s ready to eat. If it’s still hard, it means it’s not quite ready and can take a few days to ripen.

1. Lay the kiwi on its side and cut off the top and bottom.
2. Stand the kiwi up on its end and carefully run a knife down its sides to remove the skin.
3. Lay the kiwi back on its side and cut it into slices as needed.

Sources: Dole Fruit, WebMD, California Kiwifruit