Pineapple

Bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen with fresh pineapple, the golden crown jewel of tropical fruits that delivers an irresistible combination of sweet and tangy flavors in every juicy bite. This spiky-skinned tropical fruit features bright yellow flesh with a distinctively sweet taste balanced by refreshing acidity, creating a flavor profile that's both exotic and familiar. Native to South America and now cultivated worldwide, pineapple has become a cornerstone ingredient in Caribbean, Hawaiian, Thai, and Filipino cuisines. The tender, fibrous texture makes it perfect for eating fresh, while its natural enzymes help tenderize meats in marinades. When selecting a pineapple, look for golden color at the base, a sweet aroma, and leaves that pull away easily from the crown. Pineapple's versatility shines in both sweet and savory applications. Grill thick rings for a caramelized side dish, blend into smoothies and tropical drinks, or incorporate into upside-down cakes and fruit salads. In savory cooking, diced pineapple adds brightness to salsas, pizza toppings, stir-fries, and curry dishes. The fruit pairs beautifully with ham, pork, chicken, and seafood, while complementing flavors like coconut, lime, chili, and ginger. For easy preparation, remove the tough outer skin and fibrous core, then cut into rings, chunks, or wedges depending on your recipe needs. Fresh pineapple will keep in the refrigerator for several days once cut.