How to Choose an Avocado
June 16, 2025
You can’t spell avocado without California – it’s right in the name “AvoCAdos.” So, what makes this fruit grown in the Golden State so special?
Whether stuffed or on toast, added to smoothies or salads, or used in baking or cooking as a substitute for other fats (yep, they do that too!) California Avocados are something to be celebrated and enjoyed … often. With that, here are a few tips and fun facts about California-grown avocados!
Are avocados a fruit or vegetable? Although commonly thought of and classified as a vegetable, avocados are considered a fruit because they meet the botanical criteria for a berry: fleshy pulp and a large seed.
How do you know when an avocado is ripe? The easiest way to tell if an avocado is ready to use is to gently squeeze it in the palm of your hand. Ripe, ready-to-eat avocados will yield to gentle pressure.
What if it’s not ripe—can I do anything to help it along? To ripen an avocado, place it in a paper bag with an apple, banana or kiwi for 2–5 days at room temperature (these fruits accelerate the ripening process!). If you’re not quite ready to enjoy your avocados, ripe, uncut fruit, can be stored in the refrigerator for 2–3 days.
What is the best way to cut an avocado? The easiest and safest way to remove the avocado seed is to quarter the avocado. Carefully cut the avocado in half length-wise around the seed, with the fruit flat on the cutting board. Then, rotate the avocado ¼ turn and cut length-wise around the seed, creating ¼ avocado segments; put down the knife. By separating the quarters, the seed can be removed seamlessly with your fingertips. Watch HERE!
How do you keep a leftover avocado or guacamole from browning? To store cut avocados, sprinkle with lemon juice, lime juice or white vinegar, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. To store guacamole, place in an airtight container and press clear plastic wrap on the surface of the guacamole before covering to help prevent oxidation, then refrigerate.
When can I buy California Avocados? The California avocado season is spring through summer. Get them while supplies last!
For additional information about California Avocados, visit CaliforniaAvocado.com.