I have one of the pickiest friends in the world when it comes to food. He just tried apples, oranges, strawberries, and avocados for the first time ever. He still has plenty to check off his list. When we finally convinced him to try all of these great fruits and veggies, picking the best, and ripest was essential. Here are ways to check for ripeness:
Berries, Tomatoes: The flesh has a deep, uniform color. Tomatoes give slightly to pressure.
Apples, Pears: Firm with bright skin. Pears should give slightly when you press near the stem.
Apricots, Avocados, Peaches, Plums: Firm, tight skin. Gentle pressure should leave a fingerprint.
Bananas, Grapefruit, Lemons, Limes, Melons, Oranges: Uniform skin that’s devoid of soft spots. Should feel heavy for its size.
Broccoli, Cauliflower: Smooth, sturdy branches with tight, firm florets.
