How to Cut a Pineapple: A Step-by-Step Guide

Its sweet, tropical flavor makes pineapple a fan favorite, but it has often gotten a bad rap as a high-sugar fruit. What you may not know: Pineapple is loaded with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that provide numerous health benefits. For example, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), you’ll get 2.3 grams (g) of fiber and almost an entire day’s worth of vitamin C from just 1 cup of pineapple chunks.

An enzyme called bromelain, which is found in the stem and fruit of pineapples, may have potential health benefits, notes the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Historically, this fruit was used in both Central and South America to improve digestive issues. Although more research is needed, bromelain has been promoted for its anti-inflammatory benefits and possible anti-cancer effects, notes one past review. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking bromelain supplements or even overdoing it on the pineapple, however, since this compound may interfere with the absorption of certain medications.

Fresh pineapple is generally considered more nutritious than canned pineapple because the canning process can degrade certain vitamins and minerals. Additionally, canned pineapple often contains added sugars and preservatives, which can reduce its nutritional value. Canned pineapple can still be a healthy option if you choose a variety that is packed in 100 percent juice, which won’t contain any added sugar. Plus, canned pineapple is generally cheaper and shelf-stable making, it a good choice for affordability and when fresh fruit isn’t available.

One of the main reasons people don’t buy a whole fresh pineapple is because cutting it can be intimidating. But, with a few simple steps, you can cut a pineapple like a pro in no time!

How to Cut a Pineapple: Chunks

1. Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple.
2. Stand the pineapple up on one of the cut ends. With the chef’s knife, start at the top of the pineapple and slice down, removing the skin from the flesh in a long strip. Turn the pineapple and repeat until you’ve removed all the skin.
3. Use a paring knife to remove any remaining eyes from the pineapple.
4. Cut the pineapple in half lengthwise. Lay each half on the rounded side and remove the core by slicing into the center of the pineapple in a V-shape. Discard the core.
5. Slice the pineapple into strips, then turn them 90 degrees and cut them into chunks the size of your choosing.

How to Cut a Pineapple: Rings

1. Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple.
2. Stand the pineapple up on one of the cut ends. With the chef’s knife, start at the top of the pineapple and slice down, removing the skin from the flesh in a long strip. Turn the pineapple and repeat until you’ve removed all the skin.
3. Use a paring knife to remove any remaining eyes from the pineapple.
4. Turn the pineapple on its side and slice into ¼- to ½-inch slices. Use a paring knife or round cookie cutter to remove the core from each slice to create rings.