This in from www.allrecipes.com, food researcher and author, Samantha Dillard: “FINALLY, a way to ripen an avocado that actually works!”

Just before it reaches its ideal state, the fruit is hard and bland. And all the determined mashing in the world won’t bring it to the silky texture and unbeatable taste of one that’s in its prime. At its peak, it should be soft, buttery, and easily smashed to form guacamole or a sandwich spread.

Of course, microwaving speeds up the process, but you still won’t achieve optimal texture and flavor. And while storing it in a paper bag for a day or two certainly works, that won't help get dinner on the table tonight.

“Fortunately, there's a new 10-minute method sweeping the internet. This quick fix seemed too good to be true, so we put it to the test,” Samantha said. All Recipe testers first wrapped the underripe avocado tightly in aluminum foil. They then placed it in a large bowl and covered in in boiling water and waited 10 minutes. (They suggest that if your avocado is already a little soft, consider reducing this time by half.) By the way, some social media users have had success in as little as three minutes.

When the time is up, you’ll notice that the avocado is no longer dark green and has likely developed light patches. Once you slice it open, the previously firm center should now be softened to perfection, ready to use in salad, sauces, and dips.

The testers said they could see where this technique would indeed soften the avocado, but they were initially skeptical that it would actually ripen. But after trying this unusual method, all skepticism faded. They found that it wasn’t quite as buttery as one that’s naturally ripened, but this approach definitely got the job done. You could go ahead and use it in a recipe and feel confident your end result would be just fine.

The folks at All Recipes had a suggestion if the avocado's flavor isn’t quite as pronounced as you’d like: Boost its flavor with salt and a pinch of bold spices such as garlic or chili powder. And also, a splash of lime or lemon juice will instantly brighten it up.

So, the next time you find yourself with an underripe avocado, give this quick fix a try and see for yourself if it's worth the hype.