10 Time-Saving Fruit Cooking Hacks

Anything that cuts prep time in the kitchen, prolongs the life of fruits and veggies or helps the home cook look like a culinary pro is a great idea!

Many doctors advise people to fill half their plates with fruits and vegetables at each meal, but sometimes this is easier said than done. Today's kitchen hacks will focus on ways to make that goal achievable!

1. Perfect Pineapple

Trying to pick a perfectly ripe pineapple can be tricky. To test ripeness, pull a couple of leaves out (and a little up), not sideways. If they come out easily, it’s ripe. A strong sweet smell can indicate over-ripeness.

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2. Blackberry Benefits

Blackberries are a delicious addition to pastries and breakfast foods. A study from the University of Ohio determined that blackberries are one of the strongest cancer-fighting berries by almost 40%.

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3. Wash Later

When purchasing blackberries, don’t wash them until you are ready to use or freeze them. Washing them too soon can lead to spoiling and mold growth.

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4. Salty Citrus

Grapefruit is naturally tangy and many people add sugar to sweeten it. Try adding a little salt, as it can intensify the sweetness as well.

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5. Boil Then Peel

Scalding most fruits and vegetables before peeling will help make the job easier. Potatoes, tomatoes, and peaches are easily peeled this way.

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6. Keep The Pit

If you need only half of an avocado, keep the other half with the pit. This will help keep it from browning as fast.

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7. Ripening Rate

Increase the speed that fruits and vegetables ripen by placing them in a paper bag for a few days. Natural gasses will build up and ripen them faster.

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8. Stem Solution

Press a plastic straw up through the bottom of a strawberry to remove the stem easily and neatly.

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9. More Juice Please

To get more juice from a lemon or lime, roll it on the counter first, pressing down with the palm of your hand.

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10. Citrus Saver

Freeze lemons and limes before they go to waste. Grate them for lemon and lime zest when needed.

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