Don't let the spikes throw you off -- here's what to look for.

Figuring out if a pineapple is ripe takes a bit more know-how than fruits that get the ole' squeeze test like nectarines and peaches. But it's worth the effort; a delicious pineapple is a great healthy dessert or breakfast.

• Choose a pineapple that feels heavy for its size, with a sweet, fruity fragrance. One that is both heavy and fragrant is ready to eat.
• Uncut, a pineapple needn't be refrigerated. Just store it in a cool room. But be sure to chill before eating as the cold will enhance the flavor.
• Cut pineapple should be wrapped in plastic and stored in the refrigerator. If you do it right it should last for about three days.

Nestpert: Rosanna Campitiello, MS, MED, and RD, is the Manager of Nutrition Education for City Harvest, Inc., in New York City.

-- The Nest Editors

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