Varieties
Smooth Cayenne: Cone-shaped Hawaiian pineapple that weighs three to five pounds. It is the most popular. Hawain.
Red Spanish: Squarish shape, and a tougher shell that protects it better during shipping. Caribbean.
Sugar Loaf: Weighs five to 10 pounds. Mexican.
Availability
Year-round
Peak March through June
Shopping
A large pineapple will have more edible flesh. The pineapple should be firm and plump, heavy for its size, with fresh-looking green leaves. A good pineapple should be fragrant. Avoid bruises or soft spots.
Storage
Pineapples will get softer and juicier if left at room temperate for a day or two. Refrigerate in a plastic bag for up to four days. Store cut up pineapple in an airtight container for a week.