Although technically a fruit, most people think of and prepare avocados as a vegetable.

To test an avocado for ripeness, gently squeeze it. It should yield slightly to gentle pressure.

Use a small sharp knife to score the avocado from top to bottom. Gently pull apart the two halves and pop out the plum-sized pit with a spoon.

Rub the cut surface with lemon or lime juice to prevent discoloration.

Scrape out the flesh with a metal spoon -- a serrated-edge grapefruit spoon works well.