The golden color and sweet flavor of pineapple work wonderfully in both desserts and savory dishes. The two main varieties found in the United States are 'Cayenne' and 'Red Spanish.'

In Season
Fresh pineapple is available year-round, but it has a peak season from March to July.

What to Look For
Pineapples usually weigh between 2 and 5 pounds. Look for pineapples that are fragrant and yield slightly to the touch, avoiding any with a greenish tint at either end (underripe) or soft, mushy spots (overripe).

How to Store
Pineapples do not keep well, so it's a good idea to use them soon after purchasing. Store them at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to three days.