When it comes to avocados, there is a small window of opportunity between underripe and overripe. An avocado is ripe when it gives slightly to pressure and has a dark green, almost black, skin. If the fruit is too soft or has brown spots on the inside, it’s overripe.
To test for ripeness at home, hold an avocado in the palm of your hand and apply gentle pressure. The fruit should yield to pressure but still feel firm. You can also remove the stem from the avocado. If the stem pops off easily and reveals green flesh beneath, then the fruit is ripe. If the stem does not come off easily or if you see brown flesh, then put the avocado back – it’s overripe.
If you’re looking for a ripe avocado but don’t have time to wait for one to ripen at home, look for fruits that are already starting to soften but are still mostly green in color. These will likely be ready to eat within a day or two.