How to Store Avocados So They Last Longer

Avocados have a frustratingly narrow window of perfect ripeness. Here's how to extend it.

Whole Unripe Avocados

Store at room temperature on the counter. To speed up ripening, place in a paper bag with a banana or apple (they release ethylene gas, which accelerates ripening). Takes 2-5 days to ripen.

Whole Ripe Avocados

Once ripe, refrigerate immediately. This slows the ripening process and gives you 3-5 more days. Check daily; they go from perfect to overripe fast.

Cut Avocados

The biggest challenge: keeping the other half green. Here are the best methods:

• Lemon/lime juice: Rub the cut surface with citrus juice. The acid slows oxidation. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Water method: Place cut-side down in a container with 1/2 inch of water. Refrigerate. Lasts 2-3 days.
• Onion method: Store the avocado half in a container with a cut onion. The sulfur compounds prevent browning.
• Plastic wrap: Press plastic wrap directly onto the cut surface (no air gap). Refrigerate.

Freezing Avocados

Avocados freeze surprisingly well for smoothies and guacamole:

• Mashed: Mash avocado with a squeeze of lemon juice. Freeze in a zip-lock bag, pressing out air.
• Cubed: Cut into cubes, toss with lemon juice, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag.
• How long: 3-4 months in the freezer. Texture changes (softer), so use for smoothies and guacamole, not salads.

How to Tell If an Avocado Is Ripe

• Color: Dark green to nearly black (Hass variety). Green = not ripe.
• Feel: Gives slightly when pressed gently. Hard = not ripe. Mushy = overripe.
• Stem test: Pop off the stem. If it's green underneath, it's ripe. If it's brown, it's overripe. If it won't come off, it's not ripe.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do avocados turn brown?

Oxidation. When the flesh is exposed to air, enzymes react with oxygen and turn brown (similar to apples). Acid (lemon juice) and limiting air exposure slow this process.

Can I eat a brown avocado?

Yes. Brown avocado is safe to eat. Scrape off the brown layer and the green underneath is fine. If the entire avocado is brown and smells off, throw it away.