We've all done it. You're standing in the produce section of the grocery store squeezing apples, smelling herbs, inspecting several melons before finally putting one in your cart. But do you even know what you're really looking for in your fruit and veggies?
There is a science to selecting produce, and we're here to share our favorite tips for selecting some of the trickier specimens. Read on to see how to ensure your fruits and vegetables are both fresh and ripe. With these handy tips, you'll breeze through the produce section with confidence!
1. Watermelon
Here's what to look for in a watermelon: Give it a good visual check. Avoid any obvious deformities or bruises. Watermelons should not look lopsided, and have a dull dark green rind. The "field spot" on the bottom of the melon should be creamy yellow.
Other checks? If it feels heavier than expected or sounds hollow when rapped lightly, it's probably ripe and juicy.
2. CantaloupeCantaloupes should look golden under web-like surface. The "blossom end," opposite the stem, should have a little give, but not overly soft, discolored or molded. Avoid melons that smell overly sweet as well.
3. Lemons and limes
Bigger is not better. Lemons and limes should be no more than 3-inches in length, and feel heavy. A little squeeze can test the skin for give. Avoid anything too hard or soft.
4. Avocados
Northwest Edible Life shares a little known secret when selecting an avocado, and it's all about the stem. Once you have given it the standard squeeze test, take a look under the stem. It should come off easily with a little flick. A bright yellow-green color underneath means the avocado is ripe. If you see any brown, the avocado has already ripened too far and will be browned on the inside as well.
5. Eggplants
Choose eggplants that have "smooth, naturally shiny skin and feel heavy for their size," instructs
The Kitchn. The flesh should also give slightly, then return to its original shape.
6. Asparagus
The best asparagus have tightly closed tips and bright green stalks.
7. Corn
Husks should be bright green and silk should not be dried out. Tightly packed, shiny kernels are also indications of a well-ripened sweet corn. Still, Martha Stewart advises not to purchase corn in advance, as it is best served the day it is purchased.
