🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 37 (from laksa187)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa037.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730","crawl_time":1776394634,"first_indexed_time":1698184643,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,marthastewart!www,\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730 s443","src_root_hash":"16724559291028802437","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Cut an Avocado Like a Pro","meta_descriptions":["Learn how to cut an avocado, including how to peel the avocado, remove the pit, and cut it into slices or dice."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Credit:\nAlexander Spatari \/ GETTY IMAGES\nGiven how often we all like to enjoy avocados, knowing how to cut an avocado, as well as how to peel and pit it, is almost as important as learning how to properly slice an onion. This ever-popular ingredient is a crucial part of so many of our favorite\nsoups\n,\nsalads\n, and\ndips\n. Not to mention that\navocado toast\nhas become a cult classic. So, what makes avocados so popular?\nThey are one of the healthiest fats to be found. They have a rich, buttery texture and mild but distinct flavor. Avocados are the main ingredient in many of our favorite recipes—\nguacamole\n, anyone? They can also be used as a garnish, turning even the most drab soups and salads into something special. Their fatty texture even lends itself well to dessert, bringing richness and added health benefits to baked goods like\nmuffins\nand brownies. \nNo matter how you slice them (or dice or mash them!), avocados are a tasty way to add flavor, texture, and essential nutrients to your everyday diet. Here, we'll explain how to cut an avocado safely and efficiently.\nHow to Cut an Avocado\nWhen you break it down, an avocado has three parts: the skin, the flesh, and the pit (or seed). The meaty flesh is the only edible part of the avocado, so before you can enjoy it, you have to remove the skin and pit. So first, we’ll explain how to halve, peel, and pit an avocado, plus what tools you need to do so safely and efficiently. \nBefore you start, remember to wash your avocado first! It may seem odd since you won't be eating the peel, but the FDA advises washing avocados in water and scrubbing them with a clean produce brush, then drying them with a clean cloth towel.\n1\nTools for the Task\nCutting board:\nFirst things first, you need to have a secure cutting board to work on. If you have a non-slip mat to rest your cutting board on, we definitely recommend using it. If you don’t, a couple of layers of dampened paper towels will also work to keep the cutting board from slipping and sliding around the surface as you work.\nSharp chef's knife:\nDull knives are actually more dangerous than sharp ones! When your knife is sharp, it will glide easily over whatever you are cutting, lessening the chance of slippage. We like to use a good, solid chef’s knife when cutting avocados—this kind of knife will easily slice through the meat of the avocado, but you can also use the end close to the handle to pop out the pit.\nPrepping an Avocado\nBefore you cut avocado slices or dice the fruit, you'll need to halve it, remove the pit, and peel the avocado.\nCut the Avocado in Half\nStarting at the stem-end of the avocado, slice down until you reach the pit.\nFrom there, simply glide your knife along the outside of the pit, slicing through the flesh of the avocado until you reach the stem-end again. (You want to cut lengthwise down the avocado instead of slicing it along the equator. Not only will this leave you with more options when you decide how you want to chop up the avocado, but it also makes it a lot easier to remove the pit.)\nOnce the avocado is sliced all the way through, twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them.\nRemove the Pit\nOnce you have your two sections of avocado, one of these halves will contain the entire pit. Use the following technique to remove the pit. Again, use caution here—as is always recommended when using sharp knives and awkward foods.\nSecurely grip the skin-side of the avocado (keeping your fingers curled under) and, using one quick motion, launch the blade of the knife into the pit. You want to try to get the very bottom inch of the knife’s blade (the part nearest to the handle) into the pit of the avocado. That way, you can simply use the handle to twist the knife and pop the pit right out of the avocado. (If you have a sturdy trash can, you can bang the handle of the knife against the side of the can to release the pit from the knife blade. If it’s being stubborn, use a hand towel to grasp the pit and pull it off of the blade.)\nWhen your avocado is perfectly ripe:\nSometimes you can forgo the knife altogether when removing the pit if your avocado is ripe. Pinch the seed between your middle and pointer fingers and squeeze down gently against the flesh of the avocado. The pit should pop right out. If it doesn’t work perfectly, at least you’ve loosened it so there’s less knifework to be done.\nPeel\nThere are two ways to peel an avocado, and they both depend on how ripe the fruit is.\nIf your avocado is a bit on the over-ripe side, hold the avocado, cut-side up, in the palm of your non-dominant hand. Then, run a spoon between the skin and flesh of the avocado.\nIf you have a firmer avocado, you can use your fingers to gently peel back the skin, leaving you with a perfectly smooth avocado half.\nSafety First\nAs mentioned above, using a secured cutting board and a sharp knife are the main ways to keep yourself safe when cutting an avocado. In addition, make sure you use a knife that you feel comfortable holding. It shouldn't feel too large or heavy in your hands. Rather, the knife should feel more like an extension of your hand. \nWhen it comes time to slice into the avocado, make sure the outer layer of skin is free of any moisture. Water can cause your hand to slip, but if the avocado's skin is dry, you'll be able to get a better grip. If you're still worried about slipping up, drape a clean kitchen towel over your hand and use that to grasp the avocado. That way, if you do have any mishaps with a sharp knife, your hand will be protected by the towel.\n4 Ways to Cut an Avocado\nNo matter how you choose to cut up your avocado, you want to start out by placing each peeled and pitted half cut-side down on the cutting board.\nSlices\nTo slice the avocado into long, thin pieces:\nUse a chef's knife or paring knife to cut vertically down the length of the avocado. (Alternatively, cut crosswise to create half-moon shapes. )\nDice\nTo dice an avocado into bite-sized chunks:\nCut the avocado lengthwise into approximately ½-inch planks\nRotate the avocado and slice the other way to create perfect little cubes. \nWedges\nSome people like to cut their avocado into wedges, which are perfect for eating as a snack with a knife and fork, drizzled with some lemon juice and sprinkled with salt and pepper.\nTo create wedges, cut each avocado half lengthwise into three or four pieces, with your knife meeting back in the center where the pit used to be. \nMash\nAn honorable mention goes to mashing—you don't even need a knife for this technique. Use a fork to mash the avocado directly onto toasted bread or right on the cutting board.","attrs_markdown":"\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730#main)\n\n[Martha Stewart](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/)\n\n- Please fill out this field.\n- [Log In](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/authentication\/login?regSource=10233&relativeRedirectUrl=%2Fhow-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730)\n- My Account\n  - [Log Out](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/authentication\/logout?relativeRedirectUrl=%2Fhow-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730)\n  - [Settings](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/account\/settings)\n- [Martha's Blog](https:\/\/www.themarthablog.com\/)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730)\n- [Sweepstakes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/sweepstakes)\n\nPlease fill out this field.\n\n- [Food](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509043\/food-cooking)\n  Food\n  \n  - [Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505788\/recipes)\n  - [Breakfast & Brunch Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502328\/breakfast-recipes)\n  - [Lunch Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502505\/lunch-recipes)\n  - [Dinner Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502314\/dinner-recipes)\n  - [Appetizer & Snack Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502258\/appetizers-snacks)\n  - [Dessert & Treat Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502284\/dessert-recipes)\n  - [Drink Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502304\/drink-recipes)\n  - [Quick & Easy Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1513772\/quick-easy-recipes)\n  - [Cooking Tips & Techniques](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1518935\/cooking-how-tos)\n  - [Food News & Trends](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1513240\/food-news-trends)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509043\/food-cooking)\n- [Holidays & Entertaining](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505740\/holiday-planning-and-ideas)\n  Holidays & Entertaining\n  \n  - [Entertaining](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505862\/entertaining)\n  - [Seasonal Entertaining](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537208\/seasonal-entertaining-decorating)\n  - [Mother's Day](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502562\/mothers-day)\n  - [Memorial Day](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502509\/memorial-day)\n  - [Father's Day](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502559\/fathers-day)\n  - [Fourth of July](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502421\/4th-july)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505740\/holiday-planning-and-ideas)\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509047\/home)\n  Home\n  \n  - [Design & Decor](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505907\/home-design)\n  - [Paint Colors & Palettes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504640\/interior-paint-colors-palettes)\n  - [DIY Home Projects](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502454\/diy-home-projects)\n  - [Cleaning](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502090\/cleaning)\n  - [Storage & Organization](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502498\/storage-organization)\n  - [Laundry & Linens](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537276\/laundry-linens)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509047\/home)\n- [Gardening](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504574\/gardening)\n  Gardening\n  \n  - [Container Gardening](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504653\/container-garden-ideas)\n  - [Flower Gardens](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1513031\/flower-gardens)\n  - [Houseplants](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504576\/houseplants)\n  - [Landscaping](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537264\/landscaping)\n  - [Vegetable Gardens](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504579\/vegetable-garden-ideas)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504574\/gardening)\n- [Weddings](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/6417\/weddings)\n  Weddings\n  \n  - [Real Weddings](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/600338\/real-weddings)\n  - [Wedding Party](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/601293\/wedding-party)\n  - [Planning & Advice](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/600221\/wedding-planning-advice)\n  - [Ceremony & Reception](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/620615\/ceremony-reception)\n  - [Dresses & Style](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/620630\/dresses-style)\n  - [Beauty & Wellness](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/620623\/beauty-wellness)\n  - [Registry](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/600215\/wedding-registry)\n  - [Showers & Parties](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/600218\/wedding-celebrations-parties)\n  - [Love & Marriage](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/600340\/love-marriage)\n  - [Travel](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/620616\/travel)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/6417\/weddings)\n- [Living](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537291\/life)\n  Living\n  \n  - [Crafts & DIY Projects](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502461\/diy-projects-crafts)\n  - [Beauty](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504587\/beauty)\n  - [Wellness](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/wellness-7198836)\n  - [Pets](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502504\/pets)\n  - [Tried and True](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/tried-and-true-7482072)\n  - [The Martha Collective](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/the-martha-collective-8405549)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537291\/life)\n- [Shopping](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/8372965\/shopping)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1543773\/news)\n  News\n  \n  - [Food News & Trends](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1513240\/food-news-trends)\n  - [Home & Garden News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/home-garden-news-8729054)\n  - [Celebrity News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/celebrity-news-8729073)\n  - [Space & Weather News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/space-weather-news-8729079)\n  - [Product & Brand News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/product-brand-news-8729061)\n  - [Recall News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/recall-news-8729068)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1543773\/news)\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/about-marthastewart-com-7104054)\n\n- [Log In](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/authentication\/login?regSource=10233&relativeRedirectUrl=%2Fhow-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730)\n- My Account\n  My Account\n  \n  - [Log Out](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/authentication\/logout?relativeRedirectUrl=%2Fhow-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730)\n  - [Settings](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/account\/settings)\n- [Martha's Blog](https:\/\/www.themarthablog.com\/)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730)\n- [Sweepstakes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/sweepstakes)\n\nFollow Us\n\n- [Food](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509043\/food-cooking)\n  - [Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505788\/recipes)\n  - [Breakfast & Brunch Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502328\/breakfast-recipes)\n  - [Lunch Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502505\/lunch-recipes)\n  - [Dinner Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502314\/dinner-recipes)\n  - [Appetizer & Snack Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502258\/appetizers-snacks)\n  - [Dessert & Treat Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502284\/dessert-recipes)\n  - [Soup Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505182\/soup-recipes)\n  - [Quick & Easy Recipes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1513772\/quick-easy-recipes)\n  - [Cooking Tips & Techniques](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1518935\/cooking-how-tos)\n  - [Food News & Trends](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1513240\/food-news-trends)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509043\/food-cooking)\n- [Holidays & Entertaining](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505740\/holiday-planning-and-ideas)\n  - [Entertaining](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505862\/entertaining)\n  - [Seasonal Entertaining](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537208\/seasonal-entertaining-decorating)\n  - [Mother's Day](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502562\/mothers-day)\n  - [Memorial Day](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502509\/memorial-day)\n  - [Father's Day](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502559\/fathers-day)\n  - [Fourth of July](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502421\/4th-july)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505740\/holiday-planning-and-ideas)\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509047\/home)\n  - [Design & Decor](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505907\/home-design)\n  - [Paint Colors & Palettes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504640\/interior-paint-colors-palettes)\n  - [DIY Home Projects](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502454\/diy-home-projects)\n  - [Cleaning](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502090\/cleaning)\n  - [Storage & Organization](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502498\/storage-organization)\n  - [Laundry & Linens](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537276\/laundry-linens)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509047\/home)\n- [Gardening](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504574\/gardening)\n  - [Container Gardening](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504653\/container-garden-ideas)\n  - [Flower Gardens](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1513031\/flower-gardens)\n  - [Houseplants](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504576\/houseplants)\n  - [Landscaping](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537264\/landscaping)\n  - [Vegetable Gardens](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504579\/vegetable-garden-ideas)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504574\/gardening)\n- [Weddings](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/6417\/weddings)\n  - [Real Weddings](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/600338\/real-weddings)\n  - [Wedding Party](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/601293\/wedding-party)\n  - [Planning & Advice](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/600221\/wedding-planning-advice)\n  - [Ceremony & Reception](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/620615\/ceremony-reception)\n  - [Dresses & Style](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/620630\/dresses-style)\n  - [Beauty & Wellness](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/620623\/beauty-wellness)\n  - [Registry](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/600215\/wedding-registry)\n  - [Showers & Parties](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/600218\/wedding-celebrations-parties)\n  - [Love & Marriage](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/600340\/love-marriage)\n  - [Travel](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/620616\/travel)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/6417\/weddings)\n- [Living](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537291\/life)\n  - [Crafts & DIY Projects](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502461\/diy-projects-crafts)\n  - [Beauty](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504587\/beauty)\n  - [Wellness](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/wellness-7198836)\n  - [Pets](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502504\/pets)\n  - [Tried and True](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/tried-and-true-7482072)\n  - [The Martha Collective](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/the-martha-collective-8405549)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537291\/life)\n- [Shopping](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/8372965\/shopping)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1543773\/news)\n  - [Food News & Trends](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1513240\/food-news-trends)\n  - [Home & Garden News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/home-garden-news-8729054)\n  - [Celebrity News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/celebrity-news-8729073)\n  - [Space & Weather News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/space-weather-news-8729079)\n  - [Product & Brand News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/product-brand-news-8729061)\n  - [Recall News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/recall-news-8729068)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1543773\/news)\n\n[About Us](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/about-marthastewart-com-7104054)\n\n- Top Stories\n- [Aluminum Foil's Shiny Side: Up or Down?](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/shiny-side-of-aluminum-foil-up-or-down-11928178)\n- [Easy Weeknight Spring Dinners](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/easy-weeknight-spring-dinners-11938428)\n- [Is Sourdough Healthier Than Other Breads?](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/is-sourdough-healthy-11935038)\n- [What Drinking Coffee Every Day Does](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/what-happens-when-you-drink-coffee-every-day-11932483)\n\n# Here's the Right Way to Cut an Avocado\nGuacamole and avocado toast are mere moments away once you learn how to peel, pit, and slice an avocado.\n\nBy\n\n[Riley Wofford](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/author\/riley-wofford)\n\n![riley-wofford-2018]()\n\n![riley-wofford-2018](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/gfJj3JBhom_Tl8elMLcXDQz03jw=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/riley-wofford-2018-81632856279842519548bc607969b36f.jpg)\n\n[Riley Wofford](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/author\/riley-wofford)\n\nRiley Wofford is a recipe developer, food stylist, and writer with over 15 years of experience and holds a Professional Culinary Arts diploma from the International Culinary Center. In addition to MarthaStewart.com, Riley's work can be found in TODAY.com, Delish, Food52, and Marley Spoon.\n\n[Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/about-marthastewart-com-7104054#-toc-editorial-guidelines)\n\nPublished on October 23, 2023\n\nIn This Article\n\nView All\n\nIn This Article\n\n- [How to Cut an Avocado](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730#toc-how-to-cut-an-avocado)\n- [Prep for Cutting](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730#toc-prepping-an-avocado)\n- [Safety Tips](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730#toc-safety-first)\n- [How to Slice, Dice, and Cut Wedges](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730#toc-4-ways-to-cut-an-avocado)\n\nClose\n\n![Sliced Avocado](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/9ty9QzPb-yPChpKdVn1VCKIAxnI=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-getty-1023-908782a4544b48afa0c3bfb5e9a28bce.jpg)\n\n![Sliced Avocado](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/9ty9QzPb-yPChpKdVn1VCKIAxnI=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-getty-1023-908782a4544b48afa0c3bfb5e9a28bce.jpg)\n\nCredit:\n\nAlexander Spatari \/ GETTY IMAGES\n\nGiven how often we all like to enjoy avocados, knowing how to cut an avocado, as well as how to peel and pit it, is almost as important as learning how to properly slice an onion. This ever-popular ingredient is a crucial part of so many of our favorite [soups](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1050317\/chilled-avocado-cucumber-soup), [salads](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1047456\/grapefruit-salmon-and-avocado-salad), and [dips](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1157614\/avocado-ranch-dip). Not to mention that [avocado toast](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1526382\/mashed-avocado-and-egg-toast) has become a cult classic. So, what makes avocados so popular?\n\nThey are one of the healthiest fats to be found. They have a rich, buttery texture and mild but distinct flavor. Avocados are the main ingredient in many of our favorite recipes—[guacamole](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/872700\/classic-guacamole), anyone? They can also be used as a garnish, turning even the most drab soups and salads into something special. Their fatty texture even lends itself well to dessert, bringing richness and added health benefits to baked goods like [muffins](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1555140\/double-chocolate-muffins) and brownies.\n\nNo matter how you slice them (or dice or mash them!), avocados are a tasty way to add flavor, texture, and essential nutrients to your everyday diet. Here, we'll explain how to cut an avocado safely and efficiently.\n\n[What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Avocado Every Day, According to Nutrition Experts](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/what-eating-avocado-every-day-does-to-your-body-11930448)\n\n## How to Cut an Avocado\nWhen you break it down, an avocado has three parts: the skin, the flesh, and the pit (or seed). The meaty flesh is the only edible part of the avocado, so before you can enjoy it, you have to remove the skin and pit. So first, we’ll explain how to halve, peel, and pit an avocado, plus what tools you need to do so safely and efficiently.\n\nBefore you start, remember to wash your avocado first! It may seem odd since you won't be eating the peel, but the FDA advises washing avocados in water and scrubbing them with a clean produce brush, then drying them with a clean cloth towel.1\n\n### Tools for the Task\n- **Cutting board:** First things first, you need to have a secure cutting board to work on. If you have a non-slip mat to rest your cutting board on, we definitely recommend using it. If you don’t, a couple of layers of dampened paper towels will also work to keep the cutting board from slipping and sliding around the surface as you work.\n- **Sharp chef's knife:** Dull knives are actually more dangerous than sharp ones! When your knife is sharp, it will glide easily over whatever you are cutting, lessening the chance of slippage. We like to use a good, solid chef’s knife when cutting avocados—this kind of knife will easily slice through the meat of the avocado, but you can also use the end close to the handle to pop out the pit.\n## Prepping an Avocado\nBefore you cut avocado slices or dice the fruit, you'll need to halve it, remove the pit, and peel the avocado.\n\n### Cut the Avocado in Half\n1. Starting at the stem-end of the avocado, slice down until you reach the pit.\n2. From there, simply glide your knife along the outside of the pit, slicing through the flesh of the avocado until you reach the stem-end again. (You want to cut lengthwise down the avocado instead of slicing it along the equator. Not only will this leave you with more options when you decide how you want to chop up the avocado, but it also makes it a lot easier to remove the pit.)\n3. Once the avocado is sliced all the way through, twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them.\n### Remove the Pit\nOnce you have your two sections of avocado, one of these halves will contain the entire pit. Use the following technique to remove the pit. Again, use caution here—as is always recommended when using sharp knives and awkward foods.\n\nSecurely grip the skin-side of the avocado (keeping your fingers curled under) and, using one quick motion, launch the blade of the knife into the pit. You want to try to get the very bottom inch of the knife’s blade (the part nearest to the handle) into the pit of the avocado. That way, you can simply use the handle to twist the knife and pop the pit right out of the avocado. (If you have a sturdy trash can, you can bang the handle of the knife against the side of the can to release the pit from the knife blade. If it’s being stubborn, use a hand towel to grasp the pit and pull it off of the blade.)\n\n![Video placeholder image](https:\/\/cdn.jwplayer.com\/v2\/media\/p0CGeSFd\/poster.jpg?width=720)\n\n**When your avocado is perfectly ripe:** Sometimes you can forgo the knife altogether when removing the pit if your avocado is ripe. Pinch the seed between your middle and pointer fingers and squeeze down gently against the flesh of the avocado. The pit should pop right out. If it doesn’t work perfectly, at least you’ve loosened it so there’s less knifework to be done.\n\n### Peel\nThere are two ways to peel an avocado, and they both depend on how ripe the fruit is.\n\n- If your avocado is a bit on the over-ripe side, hold the avocado, cut-side up, in the palm of your non-dominant hand. Then, run a spoon between the skin and flesh of the avocado.\n- If you have a firmer avocado, you can use your fingers to gently peel back the skin, leaving you with a perfectly smooth avocado half.\n\n[How to Pick the Perfect Avocado—and Slow Down or Speed Up the Ripening Process](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/7845759\/how-choose-avocado-ripening-tips)\n\n## Safety First\nAs mentioned above, using a secured cutting board and a sharp knife are the main ways to keep yourself safe when cutting an avocado. In addition, make sure you use a knife that you feel comfortable holding. It shouldn't feel too large or heavy in your hands. Rather, the knife should feel more like an extension of your hand.\n\nWhen it comes time to slice into the avocado, make sure the outer layer of skin is free of any moisture. Water can cause your hand to slip, but if the avocado's skin is dry, you'll be able to get a better grip. If you're still worried about slipping up, drape a clean kitchen towel over your hand and use that to grasp the avocado. That way, if you do have any mishaps with a sharp knife, your hand will be protected by the towel.\n\n## 4 Ways to Cut an Avocado\nNo matter how you choose to cut up your avocado, you want to start out by placing each peeled and pitted half cut-side down on the cutting board.\n\n### Slices\nTo slice the avocado into long, thin pieces:\n\nUse a chef's knife or paring knife to cut vertically down the length of the avocado. (Alternatively, cut crosswise to create half-moon shapes. )\n\n### Dice\nTo dice an avocado into bite-sized chunks:\n\n1. Cut the avocado lengthwise into approximately ½-inch planks\n2. Rotate the avocado and slice the other way to create perfect little cubes.\n### Wedges\nSome people like to cut their avocado into wedges, which are perfect for eating as a snack with a knife and fork, drizzled with some lemon juice and sprinkled with salt and pepper.\n\nTo create wedges, cut each avocado half lengthwise into three or four pieces, with your knife meeting back in the center where the pit used to be.\n\n### Mash\nAn honorable mention goes to mashing—you don't even need a knife for this technique. Use a fork to mash the avocado directly onto toasted bread or right on the cutting board.\n\nExplore more:\n\n- [Food & Cooking](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509043\/food-cooking)\n- [Cooking How-Tos & Techniques](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1518935\/cooking-how-tos)\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for your feedback\\!\n\nTell us why\\!\n\nOther\n\nSources\n\nMartha Stewart is committed to using high-quality, reputable sources—including peer-reviewed studies—to support the facts in our articles. Read about our [editorial policies and standards](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/about-marthastewart-com-7104054#toc-editorial-guidelines) to learn more about how we fact check our content for accuracy.\n\n1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration: \"[Microbiological Surveillance Sampling: FY14-16 Whole Fresh Avocados](https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/food\/sampling-protect-food-supply\/microbiological-surveillance-sampling-fy14-16-whole-fresh-avocados#:~:text=Foodsafety.gov%20recommends%20that%20consumers,transferred%20from%20the%20knife%20onto).\"\n\n## Related Articles\n[![grilled corn, zucchini, onions, and bell peppers in white enamel tray with tongs.](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/qS9P3Q3_Ui6PqCNEbxYY1Bvf2fM=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/ms-grilled-vegetables-getty-0a0b48647b8e45c88cd11994199f9042.jpg) ![grilled corn, zucchini, onions, and bell peppers in white enamel tray with tongs.](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/qS9P3Q3_Ui6PqCNEbxYY1Bvf2fM=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/ms-grilled-vegetables-getty-0a0b48647b8e45c88cd11994199f9042.jpg) How to Grill Vegetables for Maximum Flavor, According to a Grill Master](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-grill-vegetables-11745454)\n\n[![sack of new potatoes on baking sheet](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/9WfjCUACMXiwYulf-0gIf90rA2k=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/sack-of-potatoes-XD103293GLpotato1-ocms-crop-0b6c453493a04a6cafa9abc8057d16cd.jpg) ![sack of new potatoes on baking sheet](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/9WfjCUACMXiwYulf-0gIf90rA2k=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/sack-of-potatoes-XD103293GLpotato1-ocms-crop-0b6c453493a04a6cafa9abc8057d16cd.jpg) How to Store Potatoes the Right Way—and Prevent Them From Sprouting](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/8344215\/how-to-store-potatoes-avoid-sprouting)\n\n[![raw whole chicken on cutting board with knife and person in white](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/e57C8F-y8qxJrsGecS7T1q1v_Vc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/med104694_0509_chickencut-horiz-1223-3f810246959e4d979d397712543c4adc.jpg) ![raw whole chicken on cutting board with knife and person in white](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/e57C8F-y8qxJrsGecS7T1q1v_Vc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/med104694_0509_chickencut-horiz-1223-3f810246959e4d979d397712543c4adc.jpg) How to Cut a Whole Chicken Into Pieces](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/920455\/how-cut-chicken)\n\n[![Rolled Rib Eye](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/_knmoxEgR2j4XHMdBrBwuKAt1BQ=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/rolled-rib-eye-roast-how-to-04-103104133.jpg-c1bc9d604f1a41c8b7fbc6f142560e0e.jpg) ![Rolled Rib Eye](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/_knmoxEgR2j4XHMdBrBwuKAt1BQ=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/rolled-rib-eye-roast-how-to-04-103104133.jpg-c1bc9d604f1a41c8b7fbc6f142560e0e.jpg) How to Butterfly a Roast (and Why You Should!)](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1522632\/butterfly-roast-technique)\n\n[![Crystals of shallow salt in a scoop, spoon on a dark gray table. Background for advertising salt.](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/r2f-oCbhPEkPfBKkY7_2dZIhcWo=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/how-to-fix-a-dish-thats-too-salty-1122-2000-e79a33ca4128442d83db3a19aa5999b4.jpg) ![Crystals of shallow salt in a scoop, spoon on a dark gray table. Background for advertising salt.](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/r2f-oCbhPEkPfBKkY7_2dZIhcWo=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/how-to-fix-a-dish-thats-too-salty-1122-2000-e79a33ca4128442d83db3a19aa5999b4.jpg) 5 Ways to Fix a Dish That Is Too Salty](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/8341751\/how-to-fix-dish-that-is-too-salty)\n\n[![buttermilk pancakes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/miZM5cquKyFGZyMAVuky36BQj8w=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/buttermilk-pancakes-102980807-93b02696738d41b69189dd14c13c3466.jpg) ![buttermilk pancakes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/miZM5cquKyFGZyMAVuky36BQj8w=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/buttermilk-pancakes-102980807-93b02696738d41b69189dd14c13c3466.jpg) How to Make Perfectly Round Pancakes That Look Like They Were Ordered at a Diner](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/8325745\/how-to-make-round-pancakes)\n\n[![avocados on cloth](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/wSgayKHmC59OE3Yp_620BpQa1TE=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/bd105774avocados7_1-438426ce052c4b28ac235c77bba275f2-horiz-822d4d20af814d8b9a27f8be314549e3.jpg) ![avocados on cloth](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/wSgayKHmC59OE3Yp_620BpQa1TE=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/bd105774avocados7_1-438426ce052c4b28ac235c77bba275f2-horiz-822d4d20af814d8b9a27f8be314549e3.jpg) How to Pick the Perfect Avocado—and Slow Down or Speed Up the Ripening Process](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/7845759\/how-choose-avocado-ripening-tips)\n\n[![glass of beer with open bottle](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/SbVF63s_Xjrp67tjDlgwuUSvFNc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/ways-to-open-bottle-without-opener-beer-getty-1023-66a66a3e08064fcaa781e29771e886ab.jpg) ![glass of beer with open bottle](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/SbVF63s_Xjrp67tjDlgwuUSvFNc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/ways-to-open-bottle-without-opener-beer-getty-1023-66a66a3e08064fcaa781e29771e886ab.jpg) 13 Ways to Open a Bottle When You Don’t Have a Bottle Opener](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-open-bottle-without-bottle-opener-8382885)\n\n[![Peach Ice cream](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/3qP_f4CKJw7b06hROM25a4HgBl4=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/peach-ice-cream-7001025-f7f96ec96f9b446cabb610bb17715c9a.jpg) ![Peach Ice cream](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/3qP_f4CKJw7b06hROM25a4HgBl4=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/peach-ice-cream-7001025-f7f96ec96f9b446cabb610bb17715c9a.jpg) Everything You Need to Know About Making Ice Cream at Home](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/8261701\/how-to-make-homemade-ice-cream)\n\n[![apple orchard trees with sun shining through](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/9itTA1Gy42nN3KQVHEtU7KwRbg8=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/apple-orchard-1018-efc29694-e6cb8d1a0fb3471083585b5834d897a9.jpg) ![apple orchard trees with sun shining through](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/9itTA1Gy42nN3KQVHEtU7KwRbg8=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/apple-orchard-1018-efc29694-e6cb8d1a0fb3471083585b5834d897a9.jpg) Martha's Guide to Pressing Your Own Apple Cider](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1531892\/martha-apple-cider-press-how-to)\n\n[![Chili with Cilantro, Limes, etc.](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/DqXmtgxWR7ZtRfrW8R0WQrTn-5k=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/chilli-0016-r-md110017_vert-horiz-1022-2000-5bf175f698c047e49d20f6d1fc2ccb01.jpg) ![Chili with Cilantro, Limes, etc.](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/DqXmtgxWR7ZtRfrW8R0WQrTn-5k=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/chilli-0016-r-md110017_vert-horiz-1022-2000-5bf175f698c047e49d20f6d1fc2ccb01.jpg) 5 Easy Ways to Thicken Chili](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/8333042\/how-to-thicken-chili)\n\n[![a few leeks on a cutting board](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/hW0nnoGxg8HXNlFHxzP_YwixH1U=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/how-to-cut-a-leek-Getty-1123-3d85e5220b6f412c94caa788fbdeb233.jpg) ![a few leeks on a cutting board](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/hW0nnoGxg8HXNlFHxzP_YwixH1U=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/how-to-cut-a-leek-Getty-1123-3d85e5220b6f412c94caa788fbdeb233.jpg) The Right Way to Cut a Leek, According to a Chef](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-cut-leeks-8401406)\n\n[![chocolate stout cupcakes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/rVwEFmXSYNZn6byzCVup4HW_pm4=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/chocolate-stout-cupcakes-102882084-236083626181435480792e049e7dfe7c.jpg) ![chocolate stout cupcakes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/rVwEFmXSYNZn6byzCVup4HW_pm4=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/chocolate-stout-cupcakes-102882084-236083626181435480792e049e7dfe7c.jpg) Chocolate-Stout Cupcakes 1 hr 45 mins](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1512273\/chocolate-stout-cupcakes)\n\n[![Sliced Tomatoes on cutting board](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/TOdUqyYViutKuyVQOP0o861T6zA=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/how-to-cut-a-tomato-lead-getty-0223-2000-940891c1519a4df0892f5bbd78a64cb0.jpg) ![Sliced Tomatoes on cutting board](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/TOdUqyYViutKuyVQOP0o861T6zA=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/how-to-cut-a-tomato-lead-getty-0223-2000-940891c1519a4df0892f5bbd78a64cb0.jpg) The Easiest Way to Slice, Dice, or Cut a Tomato](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/8372937\/how-to-cut-a-tomato)\n\n[![Garlic on cutting board](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/db2jJJ61QwqBcd56om9RkFjeMVE=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/ms-garlic-getty-726d67ec92b644f0a68edec04dd750ea.jpg) ![Garlic on cutting board](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/db2jJJ61QwqBcd56om9RkFjeMVE=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/ms-garlic-getty-726d67ec92b644f0a68edec04dd750ea.jpg) 5 Ways to Remove the Garlic Smell From Your Hands—Including Martha's Method](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-get-garlic-smell-off-hands-8608896)\n\n[![oils in small round dishes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/_Pb00Aov1xrTGfawXAp63wz_U5A=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/oils-glossary-01-7002583-1-e365c6c54a194a84b3c626123a91cd29.jpg) ![oils in small round dishes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/_Pb00Aov1xrTGfawXAp63wz_U5A=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/oils-glossary-01-7002583-1-e365c6c54a194a84b3c626123a91cd29.jpg) Our 9 Favorite Cooking Oils—and the Best Ways to Use Each](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1536407\/best-cooking-oils-flavors-uses)\n\n[Martha Stewart](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/)\n\n[Newsletters](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730)\n\n## Follow Us\n\n- [Food](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509043\/food-cooking)\n- [Holidays](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505740\/holiday-planning-and-ideas)\n- [Entertaining](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1505862\/entertaining)\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509047\/home)\n- [Gardening](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504574\/gardening)\n- [Cleaning & Organizing](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502090\/cleaning)\n- [Weddings](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/6417\/weddings)\n- [DIY](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502461\/diy-projects-crafts)\n- [Beauty & Wellness](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1504587\/beauty)\n- [Living](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537291\/life)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1543773\/news)\n- [Shopping](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/8372965\/shopping)\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/about-marthastewart-com-7104054)\n- [Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/about-marthastewart-com-7104054#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/about-marthastewart-com-7104054#toc-contact-us)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-privacy)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/careers)\n- [Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-termsofservice)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/advertising)\n\nMartha Stewart is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\nNewsletter Sign Up","attrs_readable_markdown":"Credit:\n\nAlexander Spatari \/ GETTY IMAGES\n\nGiven how often we all like to enjoy avocados, knowing how to cut an avocado, as well as how to peel and pit it, is almost as important as learning how to properly slice an onion. This ever-popular ingredient is a crucial part of so many of our favorite [soups](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1050317\/chilled-avocado-cucumber-soup), [salads](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1047456\/grapefruit-salmon-and-avocado-salad), and [dips](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1157614\/avocado-ranch-dip). Not to mention that [avocado toast](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1526382\/mashed-avocado-and-egg-toast) has become a cult classic. So, what makes avocados so popular?\n\nThey are one of the healthiest fats to be found. They have a rich, buttery texture and mild but distinct flavor. Avocados are the main ingredient in many of our favorite recipes—[guacamole](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/872700\/classic-guacamole), anyone? They can also be used as a garnish, turning even the most drab soups and salads into something special. Their fatty texture even lends itself well to dessert, bringing richness and added health benefits to baked goods like [muffins](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1555140\/double-chocolate-muffins) and brownies.\n\nNo matter how you slice them (or dice or mash them!), avocados are a tasty way to add flavor, texture, and essential nutrients to your everyday diet. Here, we'll explain how to cut an avocado safely and efficiently.\n\n## How to Cut an Avocado\nWhen you break it down, an avocado has three parts: the skin, the flesh, and the pit (or seed). The meaty flesh is the only edible part of the avocado, so before you can enjoy it, you have to remove the skin and pit. So first, we’ll explain how to halve, peel, and pit an avocado, plus what tools you need to do so safely and efficiently.\n\nBefore you start, remember to wash your avocado first! It may seem odd since you won't be eating the peel, but the FDA advises washing avocados in water and scrubbing them with a clean produce brush, then drying them with a clean cloth towel.1\n\n### Tools for the Task\n- **Cutting board:** First things first, you need to have a secure cutting board to work on. If you have a non-slip mat to rest your cutting board on, we definitely recommend using it. If you don’t, a couple of layers of dampened paper towels will also work to keep the cutting board from slipping and sliding around the surface as you work.\n- **Sharp chef's knife:** Dull knives are actually more dangerous than sharp ones! When your knife is sharp, it will glide easily over whatever you are cutting, lessening the chance of slippage. We like to use a good, solid chef’s knife when cutting avocados—this kind of knife will easily slice through the meat of the avocado, but you can also use the end close to the handle to pop out the pit.\n## Prepping an Avocado\nBefore you cut avocado slices or dice the fruit, you'll need to halve it, remove the pit, and peel the avocado.\n\n### Cut the Avocado in Half\n1. Starting at the stem-end of the avocado, slice down until you reach the pit.\n2. From there, simply glide your knife along the outside of the pit, slicing through the flesh of the avocado until you reach the stem-end again. (You want to cut lengthwise down the avocado instead of slicing it along the equator. Not only will this leave you with more options when you decide how you want to chop up the avocado, but it also makes it a lot easier to remove the pit.)\n3. Once the avocado is sliced all the way through, twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them.\n### Remove the Pit\nOnce you have your two sections of avocado, one of these halves will contain the entire pit. Use the following technique to remove the pit. Again, use caution here—as is always recommended when using sharp knives and awkward foods.\n\nSecurely grip the skin-side of the avocado (keeping your fingers curled under) and, using one quick motion, launch the blade of the knife into the pit. You want to try to get the very bottom inch of the knife’s blade (the part nearest to the handle) into the pit of the avocado. That way, you can simply use the handle to twist the knife and pop the pit right out of the avocado. (If you have a sturdy trash can, you can bang the handle of the knife against the side of the can to release the pit from the knife blade. If it’s being stubborn, use a hand towel to grasp the pit and pull it off of the blade.)\n\n![Video placeholder image](https:\/\/cdn.jwplayer.com\/v2\/media\/p0CGeSFd\/poster.jpg?width=720)\n\n**When your avocado is perfectly ripe:** Sometimes you can forgo the knife altogether when removing the pit if your avocado is ripe. Pinch the seed between your middle and pointer fingers and squeeze down gently against the flesh of the avocado. The pit should pop right out. If it doesn’t work perfectly, at least you’ve loosened it so there’s less knifework to be done.\n\n### Peel\nThere are two ways to peel an avocado, and they both depend on how ripe the fruit is.\n\n- If your avocado is a bit on the over-ripe side, hold the avocado, cut-side up, in the palm of your non-dominant hand. Then, run a spoon between the skin and flesh of the avocado.\n- If you have a firmer avocado, you can use your fingers to gently peel back the skin, leaving you with a perfectly smooth avocado half.\n## Safety First\nAs mentioned above, using a secured cutting board and a sharp knife are the main ways to keep yourself safe when cutting an avocado. In addition, make sure you use a knife that you feel comfortable holding. It shouldn't feel too large or heavy in your hands. Rather, the knife should feel more like an extension of your hand.\n\nWhen it comes time to slice into the avocado, make sure the outer layer of skin is free of any moisture. Water can cause your hand to slip, but if the avocado's skin is dry, you'll be able to get a better grip. If you're still worried about slipping up, drape a clean kitchen towel over your hand and use that to grasp the avocado. That way, if you do have any mishaps with a sharp knife, your hand will be protected by the towel.\n\n## 4 Ways to Cut an Avocado\nNo matter how you choose to cut up your avocado, you want to start out by placing each peeled and pitted half cut-side down on the cutting board.\n\n### Slices\nTo slice the avocado into long, thin pieces:\n\nUse a chef's knife or paring knife to cut vertically down the length of the avocado. (Alternatively, cut crosswise to create half-moon shapes. )\n\n### Dice\nTo dice an avocado into bite-sized chunks:\n\n1. Cut the avocado lengthwise into approximately ½-inch planks\n2. Rotate the avocado and slice the other way to create perfect little cubes.\n### Wedges\nSome people like to cut their avocado into wedges, which are perfect for eating as a snack with a knife and fork, drizzled with some lemon juice and sprinkled with salt and pepper.\n\nTo create wedges, cut each avocado half lengthwise into three or four pieces, with your knife meeting back in the center where the pit used to be.\n\n### Mash\nAn honorable mention goes to mashing—you don't even need a knife for this technique. Use a fork to mash the avocado directly onto toasted bread or right on the cutting board.","meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

1 day ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	0 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730
Last Crawled	2026-04-17 02:57:14 (1 day ago)
First Indexed	2023-10-24 21:57:23 (2 years ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	How to Cut an Avocado Like a Pro
Meta Description	Learn how to cut an avocado, including how to peel the avocado, remove the pit, and cut it into slices or dice.
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	Credit: Alexander Spatari / GETTY IMAGES Given how often we all like to enjoy avocados, knowing how to cut an avocado, as well as how to peel and pit it, is almost as important as learning how to properly slice an onion. This ever-popular ingredient is a crucial part of so many of our favorite soups , salads , and dips . Not to mention that avocado toast has become a cult classic. So, what makes avocados so popular? They are one of the healthiest fats to be found. They have a rich, buttery texture and mild but distinct flavor. Avocados are the main ingredient in many of our favorite recipes— guacamole , anyone? They can also be used as a garnish, turning even the most drab soups and salads into something special. Their fatty texture even lends itself well to dessert, bringing richness and added health benefits to baked goods like muffins and brownies. No matter how you slice them (or dice or mash them!), avocados are a tasty way to add flavor, texture, and essential nutrients to your everyday diet. Here, we'll explain how to cut an avocado safely and efficiently. How to Cut an Avocado When you break it down, an avocado has three parts: the skin, the flesh, and the pit (or seed). The meaty flesh is the only edible part of the avocado, so before you can enjoy it, you have to remove the skin and pit. So first, we’ll explain how to halve, peel, and pit an avocado, plus what tools you need to do so safely and efficiently. Before you start, remember to wash your avocado first! It may seem odd since you won't be eating the peel, but the FDA advises washing avocados in water and scrubbing them with a clean produce brush, then drying them with a clean cloth towel. 1 Tools for the Task Cutting board: First things first, you need to have a secure cutting board to work on. If you have a non-slip mat to rest your cutting board on, we definitely recommend using it. If you don’t, a couple of layers of dampened paper towels will also work to keep the cutting board from slipping and sliding around the surface as you work. Sharp chef's knife: Dull knives are actually more dangerous than sharp ones! When your knife is sharp, it will glide easily over whatever you are cutting, lessening the chance of slippage. We like to use a good, solid chef’s knife when cutting avocados—this kind of knife will easily slice through the meat of the avocado, but you can also use the end close to the handle to pop out the pit. Prepping an Avocado Before you cut avocado slices or dice the fruit, you'll need to halve it, remove the pit, and peel the avocado. Cut the Avocado in Half Starting at the stem-end of the avocado, slice down until you reach the pit. From there, simply glide your knife along the outside of the pit, slicing through the flesh of the avocado until you reach the stem-end again. (You want to cut lengthwise down the avocado instead of slicing it along the equator. Not only will this leave you with more options when you decide how you want to chop up the avocado, but it also makes it a lot easier to remove the pit.) Once the avocado is sliced all the way through, twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them. Remove the Pit Once you have your two sections of avocado, one of these halves will contain the entire pit. Use the following technique to remove the pit. Again, use caution here—as is always recommended when using sharp knives and awkward foods. Securely grip the skin-side of the avocado (keeping your fingers curled under) and, using one quick motion, launch the blade of the knife into the pit. You want to try to get the very bottom inch of the knife’s blade (the part nearest to the handle) into the pit of the avocado. That way, you can simply use the handle to twist the knife and pop the pit right out of the avocado. (If you have a sturdy trash can, you can bang the handle of the knife against the side of the can to release the pit from the knife blade. If it’s being stubborn, use a hand towel to grasp the pit and pull it off of the blade.) When your avocado is perfectly ripe: Sometimes you can forgo the knife altogether when removing the pit if your avocado is ripe. Pinch the seed between your middle and pointer fingers and squeeze down gently against the flesh of the avocado. The pit should pop right out. If it doesn’t work perfectly, at least you’ve loosened it so there’s less knifework to be done. Peel There are two ways to peel an avocado, and they both depend on how ripe the fruit is. If your avocado is a bit on the over-ripe side, hold the avocado, cut-side up, in the palm of your non-dominant hand. Then, run a spoon between the skin and flesh of the avocado. If you have a firmer avocado, you can use your fingers to gently peel back the skin, leaving you with a perfectly smooth avocado half. Safety First As mentioned above, using a secured cutting board and a sharp knife are the main ways to keep yourself safe when cutting an avocado. In addition, make sure you use a knife that you feel comfortable holding. It shouldn't feel too large or heavy in your hands. Rather, the knife should feel more like an extension of your hand. When it comes time to slice into the avocado, make sure the outer layer of skin is free of any moisture. Water can cause your hand to slip, but if the avocado's skin is dry, you'll be able to get a better grip. If you're still worried about slipping up, drape a clean kitchen towel over your hand and use that to grasp the avocado. That way, if you do have any mishaps with a sharp knife, your hand will be protected by the towel. 4 Ways to Cut an Avocado No matter how you choose to cut up your avocado, you want to start out by placing each peeled and pitted half cut-side down on the cutting board. Slices To slice the avocado into long, thin pieces: Use a chef's knife or paring knife to cut vertically down the length of the avocado. (Alternatively, cut crosswise to create half-moon shapes. ) Dice To dice an avocado into bite-sized chunks: Cut the avocado lengthwise into approximately ½-inch planks Rotate the avocado and slice the other way to create perfect little cubes. Wedges Some people like to cut their avocado into wedges, which are perfect for eating as a snack with a knife and fork, drizzled with some lemon juice and sprinkled with salt and pepper. To create wedges, cut each avocado half lengthwise into three or four pieces, with your knife meeting back in the center where the pit used to be. Mash An honorable mention goes to mashing—you don't even need a knife for this technique. Use a fork to mash the avocado directly onto toasted bread or right on the cutting board.
Markdown	[Skip to content](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730#main) [Martha Stewart](https://www.marthastewart.com/) - Please fill out this field. - [Log In](https://www.marthastewart.com/authentication/login?regSource=10233&relativeRedirectUrl=%2Fhow-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730) - My Account - [Log Out](https://www.marthastewart.com/authentication/logout?relativeRedirectUrl=%2Fhow-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730) - [Settings](https://www.marthastewart.com/account/settings) - [Martha's Blog](https://www.themarthablog.com/) - [Newsletters](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730) - [Sweepstakes](https://www.marthastewart.com/sweepstakes) Please fill out this field. - [Food](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509043/food-cooking) Food - [Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505788/recipes) - [Breakfast & Brunch Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502328/breakfast-recipes) - [Lunch Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502505/lunch-recipes) - [Dinner Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502314/dinner-recipes) - [Appetizer & Snack Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502258/appetizers-snacks) - [Dessert & Treat Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502284/dessert-recipes) - [Drink Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502304/drink-recipes) - [Quick & Easy Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1513772/quick-easy-recipes) - [Cooking Tips & Techniques](https://www.marthastewart.com/1518935/cooking-how-tos) - [Food News & Trends](https://www.marthastewart.com/1513240/food-news-trends) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509043/food-cooking) - [Holidays & Entertaining](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505740/holiday-planning-and-ideas) Holidays & Entertaining - [Entertaining](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505862/entertaining) - [Seasonal Entertaining](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537208/seasonal-entertaining-decorating) - [Mother's Day](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502562/mothers-day) - [Memorial Day](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502509/memorial-day) - [Father's Day](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502559/fathers-day) - [Fourth of July](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502421/4th-july) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505740/holiday-planning-and-ideas) - [Home](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509047/home) Home - [Design & Decor](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505907/home-design) - [Paint Colors & Palettes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504640/interior-paint-colors-palettes) - [DIY Home Projects](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502454/diy-home-projects) - [Cleaning](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502090/cleaning) - [Storage & Organization](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502498/storage-organization) - [Laundry & Linens](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537276/laundry-linens) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509047/home) - [Gardening](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504574/gardening) Gardening - [Container Gardening](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504653/container-garden-ideas) - [Flower Gardens](https://www.marthastewart.com/1513031/flower-gardens) - [Houseplants](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504576/houseplants) - [Landscaping](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537264/landscaping) - [Vegetable Gardens](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504579/vegetable-garden-ideas) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504574/gardening) - [Weddings](https://www.marthastewart.com/6417/weddings) Weddings - [Real Weddings](https://www.marthastewart.com/600338/real-weddings) - [Wedding Party](https://www.marthastewart.com/601293/wedding-party) - [Planning & Advice](https://www.marthastewart.com/600221/wedding-planning-advice) - [Ceremony & Reception](https://www.marthastewart.com/620615/ceremony-reception) - [Dresses & Style](https://www.marthastewart.com/620630/dresses-style) - [Beauty & Wellness](https://www.marthastewart.com/620623/beauty-wellness) - [Registry](https://www.marthastewart.com/600215/wedding-registry) - [Showers & Parties](https://www.marthastewart.com/600218/wedding-celebrations-parties) - [Love & Marriage](https://www.marthastewart.com/600340/love-marriage) - [Travel](https://www.marthastewart.com/620616/travel) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/6417/weddings) - [Living](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537291/life) Living - [Crafts & DIY Projects](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502461/diy-projects-crafts) - [Beauty](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504587/beauty) - [Wellness](https://www.marthastewart.com/wellness-7198836) - [Pets](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502504/pets) - [Tried and True](https://www.marthastewart.com/tried-and-true-7482072) - [The Martha Collective](https://www.marthastewart.com/the-martha-collective-8405549) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537291/life) - [Shopping](https://www.marthastewart.com/8372965/shopping) - [News](https://www.marthastewart.com/1543773/news) News - [Food News & Trends](https://www.marthastewart.com/1513240/food-news-trends) - [Home & Garden News](https://www.marthastewart.com/home-garden-news-8729054) - [Celebrity News](https://www.marthastewart.com/celebrity-news-8729073) - [Space & Weather News](https://www.marthastewart.com/space-weather-news-8729079) - [Product & Brand News](https://www.marthastewart.com/product-brand-news-8729061) - [Recall News](https://www.marthastewart.com/recall-news-8729068) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1543773/news) - [About Us](https://www.marthastewart.com/about-marthastewart-com-7104054) - [Log In](https://www.marthastewart.com/authentication/login?regSource=10233&relativeRedirectUrl=%2Fhow-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730) - My Account My Account - [Log Out](https://www.marthastewart.com/authentication/logout?relativeRedirectUrl=%2Fhow-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730) - [Settings](https://www.marthastewart.com/account/settings) - [Martha's Blog](https://www.themarthablog.com/) - [Newsletters](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730) - [Sweepstakes](https://www.marthastewart.com/sweepstakes) Follow Us - [Food](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509043/food-cooking) - [Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505788/recipes) - [Breakfast & Brunch Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502328/breakfast-recipes) - [Lunch Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502505/lunch-recipes) - [Dinner Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502314/dinner-recipes) - [Appetizer & Snack Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502258/appetizers-snacks) - [Dessert & Treat Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502284/dessert-recipes) - [Soup Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505182/soup-recipes) - [Quick & Easy Recipes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1513772/quick-easy-recipes) - [Cooking Tips & Techniques](https://www.marthastewart.com/1518935/cooking-how-tos) - [Food News & Trends](https://www.marthastewart.com/1513240/food-news-trends) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509043/food-cooking) - [Holidays & Entertaining](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505740/holiday-planning-and-ideas) - [Entertaining](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505862/entertaining) - [Seasonal Entertaining](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537208/seasonal-entertaining-decorating) - [Mother's Day](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502562/mothers-day) - [Memorial Day](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502509/memorial-day) - [Father's Day](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502559/fathers-day) - [Fourth of July](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502421/4th-july) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505740/holiday-planning-and-ideas) - [Home](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509047/home) - [Design & Decor](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505907/home-design) - [Paint Colors & Palettes](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504640/interior-paint-colors-palettes) - [DIY Home Projects](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502454/diy-home-projects) - [Cleaning](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502090/cleaning) - [Storage & Organization](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502498/storage-organization) - [Laundry & Linens](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537276/laundry-linens) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509047/home) - [Gardening](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504574/gardening) - [Container Gardening](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504653/container-garden-ideas) - [Flower Gardens](https://www.marthastewart.com/1513031/flower-gardens) - [Houseplants](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504576/houseplants) - [Landscaping](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537264/landscaping) - [Vegetable Gardens](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504579/vegetable-garden-ideas) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504574/gardening) - [Weddings](https://www.marthastewart.com/6417/weddings) - [Real Weddings](https://www.marthastewart.com/600338/real-weddings) - [Wedding Party](https://www.marthastewart.com/601293/wedding-party) - [Planning & Advice](https://www.marthastewart.com/600221/wedding-planning-advice) - [Ceremony & Reception](https://www.marthastewart.com/620615/ceremony-reception) - [Dresses & Style](https://www.marthastewart.com/620630/dresses-style) - [Beauty & Wellness](https://www.marthastewart.com/620623/beauty-wellness) - [Registry](https://www.marthastewart.com/600215/wedding-registry) - [Showers & Parties](https://www.marthastewart.com/600218/wedding-celebrations-parties) - [Love & Marriage](https://www.marthastewart.com/600340/love-marriage) - [Travel](https://www.marthastewart.com/620616/travel) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/6417/weddings) - [Living](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537291/life) - [Crafts & DIY Projects](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502461/diy-projects-crafts) - [Beauty](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504587/beauty) - [Wellness](https://www.marthastewart.com/wellness-7198836) - [Pets](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502504/pets) - [Tried and True](https://www.marthastewart.com/tried-and-true-7482072) - [The Martha Collective](https://www.marthastewart.com/the-martha-collective-8405549) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537291/life) - [Shopping](https://www.marthastewart.com/8372965/shopping) - [News](https://www.marthastewart.com/1543773/news) - [Food News & Trends](https://www.marthastewart.com/1513240/food-news-trends) - [Home & Garden News](https://www.marthastewart.com/home-garden-news-8729054) - [Celebrity News](https://www.marthastewart.com/celebrity-news-8729073) - [Space & Weather News](https://www.marthastewart.com/space-weather-news-8729079) - [Product & Brand News](https://www.marthastewart.com/product-brand-news-8729061) - [Recall News](https://www.marthastewart.com/recall-news-8729068) - [View All](https://www.marthastewart.com/1543773/news) [About Us](https://www.marthastewart.com/about-marthastewart-com-7104054) - Top Stories - [Aluminum Foil's Shiny Side: Up or Down?](https://www.marthastewart.com/shiny-side-of-aluminum-foil-up-or-down-11928178) - [Easy Weeknight Spring Dinners](https://www.marthastewart.com/easy-weeknight-spring-dinners-11938428) - [Is Sourdough Healthier Than Other Breads?](https://www.marthastewart.com/is-sourdough-healthy-11935038) - [What Drinking Coffee Every Day Does](https://www.marthastewart.com/what-happens-when-you-drink-coffee-every-day-11932483) # Here's the Right Way to Cut an Avocado Guacamole and avocado toast are mere moments away once you learn how to peel, pit, and slice an avocado. By [Riley Wofford](https://www.marthastewart.com/author/riley-wofford) ![riley-wofford-2018]() ![riley-wofford-2018](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/gfJj3JBhom_Tl8elMLcXDQz03jw=/200x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/riley-wofford-2018-81632856279842519548bc607969b36f.jpg) [Riley Wofford](https://www.marthastewart.com/author/riley-wofford) Riley Wofford is a recipe developer, food stylist, and writer with over 15 years of experience and holds a Professional Culinary Arts diploma from the International Culinary Center. In addition to MarthaStewart.com, Riley's work can be found in TODAY.com, Delish, Food52, and Marley Spoon. [Editorial Guidelines](https://www.marthastewart.com/about-marthastewart-com-7104054#-toc-editorial-guidelines) Published on October 23, 2023 In This Article View All In This Article - [How to Cut an Avocado](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730#toc-how-to-cut-an-avocado) - [Prep for Cutting](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730#toc-prepping-an-avocado) - [Safety Tips](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730#toc-safety-first) - [How to Slice, Dice, and Cut Wedges](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730#toc-4-ways-to-cut-an-avocado) Close ![Sliced Avocado](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/9ty9QzPb-yPChpKdVn1VCKIAxnI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/how-to-cut-an-avocado-getty-1023-908782a4544b48afa0c3bfb5e9a28bce.jpg) ![Sliced Avocado](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/9ty9QzPb-yPChpKdVn1VCKIAxnI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/how-to-cut-an-avocado-getty-1023-908782a4544b48afa0c3bfb5e9a28bce.jpg) Credit: Alexander Spatari / GETTY IMAGES Given how often we all like to enjoy avocados, knowing how to cut an avocado, as well as how to peel and pit it, is almost as important as learning how to properly slice an onion. This ever-popular ingredient is a crucial part of so many of our favorite [soups](https://www.marthastewart.com/1050317/chilled-avocado-cucumber-soup), [salads](https://www.marthastewart.com/1047456/grapefruit-salmon-and-avocado-salad), and [dips](https://www.marthastewart.com/1157614/avocado-ranch-dip). Not to mention that [avocado toast](https://www.marthastewart.com/1526382/mashed-avocado-and-egg-toast) has become a cult classic. So, what makes avocados so popular? They are one of the healthiest fats to be found. They have a rich, buttery texture and mild but distinct flavor. Avocados are the main ingredient in many of our favorite recipes—[guacamole](https://www.marthastewart.com/872700/classic-guacamole), anyone? They can also be used as a garnish, turning even the most drab soups and salads into something special. Their fatty texture even lends itself well to dessert, bringing richness and added health benefits to baked goods like [muffins](https://www.marthastewart.com/1555140/double-chocolate-muffins) and brownies. No matter how you slice them (or dice or mash them!), avocados are a tasty way to add flavor, texture, and essential nutrients to your everyday diet. Here, we'll explain how to cut an avocado safely and efficiently. [What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Avocado Every Day, According to Nutrition Experts](https://www.marthastewart.com/what-eating-avocado-every-day-does-to-your-body-11930448) ## How to Cut an Avocado When you break it down, an avocado has three parts: the skin, the flesh, and the pit (or seed). The meaty flesh is the only edible part of the avocado, so before you can enjoy it, you have to remove the skin and pit. So first, we’ll explain how to halve, peel, and pit an avocado, plus what tools you need to do so safely and efficiently. Before you start, remember to wash your avocado first! It may seem odd since you won't be eating the peel, but the FDA advises washing avocados in water and scrubbing them with a clean produce brush, then drying them with a clean cloth towel.1 ### Tools for the Task - Cutting board: First things first, you need to have a secure cutting board to work on. If you have a non-slip mat to rest your cutting board on, we definitely recommend using it. If you don’t, a couple of layers of dampened paper towels will also work to keep the cutting board from slipping and sliding around the surface as you work. - Sharp chef's knife: Dull knives are actually more dangerous than sharp ones! When your knife is sharp, it will glide easily over whatever you are cutting, lessening the chance of slippage. We like to use a good, solid chef’s knife when cutting avocados—this kind of knife will easily slice through the meat of the avocado, but you can also use the end close to the handle to pop out the pit. ## Prepping an Avocado Before you cut avocado slices or dice the fruit, you'll need to halve it, remove the pit, and peel the avocado. ### Cut the Avocado in Half 1. Starting at the stem-end of the avocado, slice down until you reach the pit. 2. From there, simply glide your knife along the outside of the pit, slicing through the flesh of the avocado until you reach the stem-end again. (You want to cut lengthwise down the avocado instead of slicing it along the equator. Not only will this leave you with more options when you decide how you want to chop up the avocado, but it also makes it a lot easier to remove the pit.) 3. Once the avocado is sliced all the way through, twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them. ### Remove the Pit Once you have your two sections of avocado, one of these halves will contain the entire pit. Use the following technique to remove the pit. Again, use caution here—as is always recommended when using sharp knives and awkward foods. Securely grip the skin-side of the avocado (keeping your fingers curled under) and, using one quick motion, launch the blade of the knife into the pit. You want to try to get the very bottom inch of the knife’s blade (the part nearest to the handle) into the pit of the avocado. That way, you can simply use the handle to twist the knife and pop the pit right out of the avocado. (If you have a sturdy trash can, you can bang the handle of the knife against the side of the can to release the pit from the knife blade. If it’s being stubborn, use a hand towel to grasp the pit and pull it off of the blade.) ![Video placeholder image](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/p0CGeSFd/poster.jpg?width=720) When your avocado is perfectly ripe: Sometimes you can forgo the knife altogether when removing the pit if your avocado is ripe. Pinch the seed between your middle and pointer fingers and squeeze down gently against the flesh of the avocado. The pit should pop right out. If it doesn’t work perfectly, at least you’ve loosened it so there’s less knifework to be done. ### Peel There are two ways to peel an avocado, and they both depend on how ripe the fruit is. - If your avocado is a bit on the over-ripe side, hold the avocado, cut-side up, in the palm of your non-dominant hand. Then, run a spoon between the skin and flesh of the avocado. - If you have a firmer avocado, you can use your fingers to gently peel back the skin, leaving you with a perfectly smooth avocado half. [How to Pick the Perfect Avocado—and Slow Down or Speed Up the Ripening Process](https://www.marthastewart.com/7845759/how-choose-avocado-ripening-tips) ## Safety First As mentioned above, using a secured cutting board and a sharp knife are the main ways to keep yourself safe when cutting an avocado. In addition, make sure you use a knife that you feel comfortable holding. It shouldn't feel too large or heavy in your hands. Rather, the knife should feel more like an extension of your hand. When it comes time to slice into the avocado, make sure the outer layer of skin is free of any moisture. Water can cause your hand to slip, but if the avocado's skin is dry, you'll be able to get a better grip. If you're still worried about slipping up, drape a clean kitchen towel over your hand and use that to grasp the avocado. That way, if you do have any mishaps with a sharp knife, your hand will be protected by the towel. ## 4 Ways to Cut an Avocado No matter how you choose to cut up your avocado, you want to start out by placing each peeled and pitted half cut-side down on the cutting board. ### Slices To slice the avocado into long, thin pieces: Use a chef's knife or paring knife to cut vertically down the length of the avocado. (Alternatively, cut crosswise to create half-moon shapes. ) ### Dice To dice an avocado into bite-sized chunks: 1. Cut the avocado lengthwise into approximately ½-inch planks 2. Rotate the avocado and slice the other way to create perfect little cubes. ### Wedges Some people like to cut their avocado into wedges, which are perfect for eating as a snack with a knife and fork, drizzled with some lemon juice and sprinkled with salt and pepper. To create wedges, cut each avocado half lengthwise into three or four pieces, with your knife meeting back in the center where the pit used to be. ### Mash An honorable mention goes to mashing—you don't even need a knife for this technique. Use a fork to mash the avocado directly onto toasted bread or right on the cutting board. Explore more: - [Food & Cooking](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509043/food-cooking) - [Cooking How-Tos & Techniques](https://www.marthastewart.com/1518935/cooking-how-tos) Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! Tell us why\! Other Sources Martha Stewart is committed to using high-quality, reputable sources—including peer-reviewed studies—to support the facts in our articles. Read about our [editorial policies and standards](https://www.marthastewart.com/about-marthastewart-com-7104054#toc-editorial-guidelines) to learn more about how we fact check our content for accuracy. 1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration: "[Microbiological Surveillance Sampling: FY14-16 Whole Fresh Avocados](https://www.fda.gov/food/sampling-protect-food-supply/microbiological-surveillance-sampling-fy14-16-whole-fresh-avocados#:~:text=Foodsafety.gov%20recommends%20that%20consumers,transferred%20from%20the%20knife%20onto)." ## Related Articles [![grilled corn, zucchini, onions, and bell peppers in white enamel tray with tongs.](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/qS9P3Q3_Ui6PqCNEbxYY1Bvf2fM=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/ms-grilled-vegetables-getty-0a0b48647b8e45c88cd11994199f9042.jpg) ![grilled corn, zucchini, onions, and bell peppers in white enamel tray with tongs.](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/qS9P3Q3_Ui6PqCNEbxYY1Bvf2fM=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/ms-grilled-vegetables-getty-0a0b48647b8e45c88cd11994199f9042.jpg) How to Grill Vegetables for Maximum Flavor, According to a Grill Master](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-grill-vegetables-11745454) [![sack of new potatoes on baking sheet](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/9WfjCUACMXiwYulf-0gIf90rA2k=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/sack-of-potatoes-XD103293GLpotato1-ocms-crop-0b6c453493a04a6cafa9abc8057d16cd.jpg) ![sack of new potatoes on baking sheet](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/9WfjCUACMXiwYulf-0gIf90rA2k=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/sack-of-potatoes-XD103293GLpotato1-ocms-crop-0b6c453493a04a6cafa9abc8057d16cd.jpg) How to Store Potatoes the Right Way—and Prevent Them From Sprouting](https://www.marthastewart.com/8344215/how-to-store-potatoes-avoid-sprouting) [![raw whole chicken on cutting board with knife and person in white](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/e57C8F-y8qxJrsGecS7T1q1v_Vc=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/med104694_0509_chickencut-horiz-1223-3f810246959e4d979d397712543c4adc.jpg) ![raw whole chicken on cutting board with knife and person in white](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/e57C8F-y8qxJrsGecS7T1q1v_Vc=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/med104694_0509_chickencut-horiz-1223-3f810246959e4d979d397712543c4adc.jpg) How to Cut a Whole Chicken Into Pieces](https://www.marthastewart.com/920455/how-cut-chicken) [![Rolled Rib Eye](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/_knmoxEgR2j4XHMdBrBwuKAt1BQ=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/rolled-rib-eye-roast-how-to-04-103104133.jpg-c1bc9d604f1a41c8b7fbc6f142560e0e.jpg) ![Rolled Rib Eye](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/_knmoxEgR2j4XHMdBrBwuKAt1BQ=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/rolled-rib-eye-roast-how-to-04-103104133.jpg-c1bc9d604f1a41c8b7fbc6f142560e0e.jpg) How to Butterfly a Roast (and Why You Should!)](https://www.marthastewart.com/1522632/butterfly-roast-technique) [![Crystals of shallow salt in a scoop, spoon on a dark gray table. Background for advertising salt.](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/r2f-oCbhPEkPfBKkY7_2dZIhcWo=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/how-to-fix-a-dish-thats-too-salty-1122-2000-e79a33ca4128442d83db3a19aa5999b4.jpg) ![Crystals of shallow salt in a scoop, spoon on a dark gray table. Background for advertising salt.](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/r2f-oCbhPEkPfBKkY7_2dZIhcWo=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/how-to-fix-a-dish-thats-too-salty-1122-2000-e79a33ca4128442d83db3a19aa5999b4.jpg) 5 Ways to Fix a Dish That Is Too Salty](https://www.marthastewart.com/8341751/how-to-fix-dish-that-is-too-salty) [![buttermilk pancakes](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/miZM5cquKyFGZyMAVuky36BQj8w=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/buttermilk-pancakes-102980807-93b02696738d41b69189dd14c13c3466.jpg) ![buttermilk pancakes](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/miZM5cquKyFGZyMAVuky36BQj8w=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/buttermilk-pancakes-102980807-93b02696738d41b69189dd14c13c3466.jpg) How to Make Perfectly Round Pancakes That Look Like They Were Ordered at a Diner](https://www.marthastewart.com/8325745/how-to-make-round-pancakes) [![avocados on cloth](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/wSgayKHmC59OE3Yp_620BpQa1TE=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/bd105774avocados7_1-438426ce052c4b28ac235c77bba275f2-horiz-822d4d20af814d8b9a27f8be314549e3.jpg) ![avocados on cloth](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/wSgayKHmC59OE3Yp_620BpQa1TE=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/bd105774avocados7_1-438426ce052c4b28ac235c77bba275f2-horiz-822d4d20af814d8b9a27f8be314549e3.jpg) How to Pick the Perfect Avocado—and Slow Down or Speed Up the Ripening Process](https://www.marthastewart.com/7845759/how-choose-avocado-ripening-tips) [![glass of beer with open bottle](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/SbVF63s_Xjrp67tjDlgwuUSvFNc=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/ways-to-open-bottle-without-opener-beer-getty-1023-66a66a3e08064fcaa781e29771e886ab.jpg) ![glass of beer with open bottle](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/SbVF63s_Xjrp67tjDlgwuUSvFNc=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/ways-to-open-bottle-without-opener-beer-getty-1023-66a66a3e08064fcaa781e29771e886ab.jpg) 13 Ways to Open a Bottle When You Don’t Have a Bottle Opener](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-open-bottle-without-bottle-opener-8382885) [![Peach Ice cream](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/3qP_f4CKJw7b06hROM25a4HgBl4=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/peach-ice-cream-7001025-f7f96ec96f9b446cabb610bb17715c9a.jpg) ![Peach Ice cream](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/3qP_f4CKJw7b06hROM25a4HgBl4=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/peach-ice-cream-7001025-f7f96ec96f9b446cabb610bb17715c9a.jpg) Everything You Need to Know About Making Ice Cream at Home](https://www.marthastewart.com/8261701/how-to-make-homemade-ice-cream) [![apple orchard trees with sun shining through](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/9itTA1Gy42nN3KQVHEtU7KwRbg8=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/apple-orchard-1018-efc29694-e6cb8d1a0fb3471083585b5834d897a9.jpg) ![apple orchard trees with sun shining through](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/9itTA1Gy42nN3KQVHEtU7KwRbg8=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/apple-orchard-1018-efc29694-e6cb8d1a0fb3471083585b5834d897a9.jpg) Martha's Guide to Pressing Your Own Apple Cider](https://www.marthastewart.com/1531892/martha-apple-cider-press-how-to) [![Chili with Cilantro, Limes, etc.](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/DqXmtgxWR7ZtRfrW8R0WQrTn-5k=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/chilli-0016-r-md110017_vert-horiz-1022-2000-5bf175f698c047e49d20f6d1fc2ccb01.jpg) ![Chili with Cilantro, Limes, etc.](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/DqXmtgxWR7ZtRfrW8R0WQrTn-5k=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/chilli-0016-r-md110017_vert-horiz-1022-2000-5bf175f698c047e49d20f6d1fc2ccb01.jpg) 5 Easy Ways to Thicken Chili](https://www.marthastewart.com/8333042/how-to-thicken-chili) [![a few leeks on a cutting board](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/hW0nnoGxg8HXNlFHxzP_YwixH1U=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/how-to-cut-a-leek-Getty-1123-3d85e5220b6f412c94caa788fbdeb233.jpg) ![a few leeks on a cutting board](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/hW0nnoGxg8HXNlFHxzP_YwixH1U=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/how-to-cut-a-leek-Getty-1123-3d85e5220b6f412c94caa788fbdeb233.jpg) The Right Way to Cut a Leek, According to a Chef](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-cut-leeks-8401406) [![chocolate stout cupcakes](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/rVwEFmXSYNZn6byzCVup4HW_pm4=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/chocolate-stout-cupcakes-102882084-236083626181435480792e049e7dfe7c.jpg) ![chocolate stout cupcakes](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/rVwEFmXSYNZn6byzCVup4HW_pm4=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/chocolate-stout-cupcakes-102882084-236083626181435480792e049e7dfe7c.jpg) Chocolate-Stout Cupcakes 1 hr 45 mins](https://www.marthastewart.com/1512273/chocolate-stout-cupcakes) [![Sliced Tomatoes on cutting board](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/TOdUqyYViutKuyVQOP0o861T6zA=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/how-to-cut-a-tomato-lead-getty-0223-2000-940891c1519a4df0892f5bbd78a64cb0.jpg) ![Sliced Tomatoes on cutting board](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/TOdUqyYViutKuyVQOP0o861T6zA=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/how-to-cut-a-tomato-lead-getty-0223-2000-940891c1519a4df0892f5bbd78a64cb0.jpg) The Easiest Way to Slice, Dice, or Cut a Tomato](https://www.marthastewart.com/8372937/how-to-cut-a-tomato) [![Garlic on cutting board](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/db2jJJ61QwqBcd56om9RkFjeMVE=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/ms-garlic-getty-726d67ec92b644f0a68edec04dd750ea.jpg) ![Garlic on cutting board](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/db2jJJ61QwqBcd56om9RkFjeMVE=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/ms-garlic-getty-726d67ec92b644f0a68edec04dd750ea.jpg) 5 Ways to Remove the Garlic Smell From Your Hands—Including Martha's Method](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-get-garlic-smell-off-hands-8608896) [![oils in small round dishes](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/_Pb00Aov1xrTGfawXAp63wz_U5A=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/oils-glossary-01-7002583-1-e365c6c54a194a84b3c626123a91cd29.jpg) ![oils in small round dishes](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/_Pb00Aov1xrTGfawXAp63wz_U5A=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/oils-glossary-01-7002583-1-e365c6c54a194a84b3c626123a91cd29.jpg) Our 9 Favorite Cooking Oils—and the Best Ways to Use Each](https://www.marthastewart.com/1536407/best-cooking-oils-flavors-uses) [Martha Stewart](https://www.marthastewart.com/) [Newsletters](https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730) ## Follow Us - [Food](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509043/food-cooking) - [Holidays](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505740/holiday-planning-and-ideas) - [Entertaining](https://www.marthastewart.com/1505862/entertaining) - [Home](https://www.marthastewart.com/1509047/home) - [Gardening](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504574/gardening) - [Cleaning & Organizing](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502090/cleaning) - [Weddings](https://www.marthastewart.com/6417/weddings) - [DIY](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502461/diy-projects-crafts) - [Beauty & Wellness](https://www.marthastewart.com/1504587/beauty) - [Living](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537291/life) - [News](https://www.marthastewart.com/1543773/news) - [Shopping](https://www.marthastewart.com/8372965/shopping) - [About Us](https://www.marthastewart.com/about-marthastewart-com-7104054) - [Editorial Guidelines](https://www.marthastewart.com/about-marthastewart-com-7104054#toc-editorial-guidelines) - [Contact Us](https://www.marthastewart.com/about-marthastewart-com-7104054#toc-contact-us) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.people.inc/brands-privacy) - [Careers](https://www.people.inc/careers) - [Terms of Service](https://www.people.inc/brands-termsofservice) - [Advertise](https://www.people.inc/advertising) Martha Stewart is part of the [People Inc.](https://www.people.inc/) publishing family. Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up
Readable Markdown	Credit: Alexander Spatari / GETTY IMAGES Given how often we all like to enjoy avocados, knowing how to cut an avocado, as well as how to peel and pit it, is almost as important as learning how to properly slice an onion. This ever-popular ingredient is a crucial part of so many of our favorite [soups](https://www.marthastewart.com/1050317/chilled-avocado-cucumber-soup), [salads](https://www.marthastewart.com/1047456/grapefruit-salmon-and-avocado-salad), and [dips](https://www.marthastewart.com/1157614/avocado-ranch-dip). Not to mention that [avocado toast](https://www.marthastewart.com/1526382/mashed-avocado-and-egg-toast) has become a cult classic. So, what makes avocados so popular? They are one of the healthiest fats to be found. They have a rich, buttery texture and mild but distinct flavor. Avocados are the main ingredient in many of our favorite recipes—[guacamole](https://www.marthastewart.com/872700/classic-guacamole), anyone? They can also be used as a garnish, turning even the most drab soups and salads into something special. Their fatty texture even lends itself well to dessert, bringing richness and added health benefits to baked goods like [muffins](https://www.marthastewart.com/1555140/double-chocolate-muffins) and brownies. No matter how you slice them (or dice or mash them!), avocados are a tasty way to add flavor, texture, and essential nutrients to your everyday diet. Here, we'll explain how to cut an avocado safely and efficiently. ## How to Cut an Avocado When you break it down, an avocado has three parts: the skin, the flesh, and the pit (or seed). The meaty flesh is the only edible part of the avocado, so before you can enjoy it, you have to remove the skin and pit. So first, we’ll explain how to halve, peel, and pit an avocado, plus what tools you need to do so safely and efficiently. Before you start, remember to wash your avocado first! It may seem odd since you won't be eating the peel, but the FDA advises washing avocados in water and scrubbing them with a clean produce brush, then drying them with a clean cloth towel.1 ### Tools for the Task - Cutting board: First things first, you need to have a secure cutting board to work on. If you have a non-slip mat to rest your cutting board on, we definitely recommend using it. If you don’t, a couple of layers of dampened paper towels will also work to keep the cutting board from slipping and sliding around the surface as you work. - Sharp chef's knife: Dull knives are actually more dangerous than sharp ones! When your knife is sharp, it will glide easily over whatever you are cutting, lessening the chance of slippage. We like to use a good, solid chef’s knife when cutting avocados—this kind of knife will easily slice through the meat of the avocado, but you can also use the end close to the handle to pop out the pit. ## Prepping an Avocado Before you cut avocado slices or dice the fruit, you'll need to halve it, remove the pit, and peel the avocado. ### Cut the Avocado in Half 1. Starting at the stem-end of the avocado, slice down until you reach the pit. 2. From there, simply glide your knife along the outside of the pit, slicing through the flesh of the avocado until you reach the stem-end again. (You want to cut lengthwise down the avocado instead of slicing it along the equator. Not only will this leave you with more options when you decide how you want to chop up the avocado, but it also makes it a lot easier to remove the pit.) 3. Once the avocado is sliced all the way through, twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them. ### Remove the Pit Once you have your two sections of avocado, one of these halves will contain the entire pit. Use the following technique to remove the pit. Again, use caution here—as is always recommended when using sharp knives and awkward foods. Securely grip the skin-side of the avocado (keeping your fingers curled under) and, using one quick motion, launch the blade of the knife into the pit. You want to try to get the very bottom inch of the knife’s blade (the part nearest to the handle) into the pit of the avocado. That way, you can simply use the handle to twist the knife and pop the pit right out of the avocado. (If you have a sturdy trash can, you can bang the handle of the knife against the side of the can to release the pit from the knife blade. If it’s being stubborn, use a hand towel to grasp the pit and pull it off of the blade.) ![Video placeholder image](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/p0CGeSFd/poster.jpg?width=720) When your avocado is perfectly ripe: Sometimes you can forgo the knife altogether when removing the pit if your avocado is ripe. Pinch the seed between your middle and pointer fingers and squeeze down gently against the flesh of the avocado. The pit should pop right out. If it doesn’t work perfectly, at least you’ve loosened it so there’s less knifework to be done. ### Peel There are two ways to peel an avocado, and they both depend on how ripe the fruit is. - If your avocado is a bit on the over-ripe side, hold the avocado, cut-side up, in the palm of your non-dominant hand. Then, run a spoon between the skin and flesh of the avocado. - If you have a firmer avocado, you can use your fingers to gently peel back the skin, leaving you with a perfectly smooth avocado half. ## Safety First As mentioned above, using a secured cutting board and a sharp knife are the main ways to keep yourself safe when cutting an avocado. In addition, make sure you use a knife that you feel comfortable holding. It shouldn't feel too large or heavy in your hands. Rather, the knife should feel more like an extension of your hand. When it comes time to slice into the avocado, make sure the outer layer of skin is free of any moisture. Water can cause your hand to slip, but if the avocado's skin is dry, you'll be able to get a better grip. If you're still worried about slipping up, drape a clean kitchen towel over your hand and use that to grasp the avocado. That way, if you do have any mishaps with a sharp knife, your hand will be protected by the towel. ## 4 Ways to Cut an Avocado No matter how you choose to cut up your avocado, you want to start out by placing each peeled and pitted half cut-side down on the cutting board. ### Slices To slice the avocado into long, thin pieces: Use a chef's knife or paring knife to cut vertically down the length of the avocado. (Alternatively, cut crosswise to create half-moon shapes. ) ### Dice To dice an avocado into bite-sized chunks: 1. Cut the avocado lengthwise into approximately ½-inch planks 2. Rotate the avocado and slice the other way to create perfect little cubes. ### Wedges Some people like to cut their avocado into wedges, which are perfect for eating as a snack with a knife and fork, drizzled with some lemon juice and sprinkled with salt and pepper. To create wedges, cut each avocado half lengthwise into three or four pieces, with your knife meeting back in the center where the pit used to be. ### Mash An honorable mention goes to mashing—you don't even need a knife for this technique. Use a fork to mash the avocado directly onto toasted bread or right on the cutting board.
Shard	37 (laksa)
Root Hash	16724559291028802437
Unparsed URL	com,marthastewart!www,/how-to-cut-an-avocado-8362730 s443