Avocados are known for their delicious taste, smooth texture, and numerous health benefits. However, one major challenge for avocado enthusiasts is keeping their fruit fresh and green. Here are 13 steps you can follow to keep your avocados looking and tasting great:

1. Select a ripe avocado: To extend the life of your avocado, ensure that you pick one that’s just ripe. It should feel slightly soft when gently pressed.

2. Keep it cool and dark: Store whole avocados in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard to slow down the ripening process.

3. Wrap it tight: If you cut your avocado in half but don’t plan on using the whole fruit, wrap the leftover piece tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This will help reduce its exposure to air and prevent browning.

4. Use lemon juice: Brush the exposed edge of an already-cut avocado with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and discoloration.

5. Store with onions: Place cut avocado in an airtight container with a few slices of onion. The sulfur compounds released by the onions will help slow down the oxidation process.

6. Submerge in water: If you’ve made guacamole or mashed avocado, cover the surface with a thin layer of water before sealing it in an airtight container to prevent browning.

7. Freeze it: You can freeze mashed avocado in an airtight container or ice cube tray for future use. Just thaw it before using it for dips or spreads.

8. Pit-in method: Keeping the pit inside the cut avocado can help maintain freshness by minimizing air exposure.

9. Rub with oil: Gently applying olive or vegetable oil on the exposed surface of your cut avocado will create a barrier against air and reduce oxidation.

10. Use an avocado saver: Invest in an avocado saver—specifically designed gadgets to preserve the freshness and color of cut avocados.

11. Vacuum seal: Vacuum sealing your avocado slices or mashed avocado keeps oxygen out, reducing the risk of browning.

12. Blanch and shock: For slices or chunks of avocado you wish to keep green, blanch them in boiling water for 10 seconds, then immediately submerge in ice water. This process helps retain their color and freshness.

13. Enjoy sooner rather than later: Despite all these preservation techniques, there’s no substitute for eating your avocado while it’s fresh and green. Plan meals with avocados and enjoy them at their peak ripeness.

By following these 13 steps, you’ll be able to keep your avocados green and delicious for an extended period, ensuring that no precious fruit goes to waste.