Avocado is a fruit that does not ripen on the tree: It needs to be picked first. Depending on the variety and other factors, it then takes three to six days to ripen at room temperature.

To speed ripening, place the avocado(s) in a lightly-closed paper bag with two or three apples or bananas. The ethylene gas naturally released by apples and bananas will speed the ripening of other fruits.

How often have you squeezed an avocado to determine if it’s ripe?

Here’s another option: Try to dislodge the stem nub with your fingernail. If it loosens easily, the avocado is ready to eat.

Photo courtesy California Department of Education.

Find more tips and recipes in our Gourmet Vegetables Section.