Cutting a whole pineapple is quick once you know where to slice, and it gives you fresh, juicy chunks with no waste. This method removes the skin and the tough core so you are left with sweet, ready-to-eat fruit.
What you'll need
- Sharp chef's knife
- Cutting board
- A ripe pineapple
Step by step
- Trim the endsLay the pineapple on its side and cut off the leafy crown and the bottom base. This gives you flat, stable surfaces to work with.
- Stand it up and remove the skinStand the pineapple upright and slice down the sides to cut away the skin. Follow the curve of the fruit to avoid wasting flesh.
- Remove the eyesYou will see small brown spots left behind, called eyes. Cut shallow diagonal grooves to remove any that remain, or slice a little deeper on the first pass.
- Quarter the pineappleCut the peeled pineapple in half from top to bottom, then cut each half in half again to make four long wedges.
- Cut out the coreSlice off the firm inner strip of core running along the pointed edge of each wedge. The core is edible but tough and fibrous.
- Slice into chunksCut each cored wedge crosswise into bite-sized pieces. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate any you are not eating right away.
Handy tips
- A ripe pineapple smells sweet at the base and gives slightly when pressed.
- Use a sharp knife, since a dull one is more likely to slip on the tough skin.
- Save the juice on the cutting board and pour it over the cut fruit for extra flavor.
Heads up
- Work with a sharp knife on a stable board and keep fingers clear of the blade, since the tough skin takes firm pressure to cut.
FAQ
How do I know if a pineapple is ripe?
A ripe pineapple has a sweet smell at the base, a slight give when pressed, and mostly golden-yellow skin. A green, hard, or sour-smelling one is likely underripe.
Can you eat the core of a pineapple?
Yes, the core is edible but noticeably tougher and more fibrous than the rest of the fruit. Some people blend it into smoothies instead of eating it plain.
How long does cut pineapple last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, cut pineapple usually keeps for about three to five days. Freezing extends it further for smoothies and cooking.