I have a scar on my left palm from an avocado. 2018. I was making guacamole for a Super Bowl party, trying to look cool in front of new friends, and I did that thing where you whack the pit with a knife. The pit spun. The knife went into my hand. Four stitches and one very embarrassing ER story later, I decided there had to be a better way.

There is. Several, actually. I have tried them all. Here is what works—and what I wish someone had told me before I became a cautionary tale.

The Spoon Method (Zero Risk)

Cut the avocado in half lengthwise around the pit. Twist to separate. Now—do not touch a knife. Slide a regular spoon between the pit and the flesh, following the curve of the pit. Pop it out. That is it. No sharp objects near your hand.

This works on ripe avocados. If your avocado is underripe, the pit will fight you. In that case, let it sit on the counter for another day. Avocado impatience causes more injuries than any technique.

The Pinch Method (One Hand Only)

Hold the avocado half with the pit facing your palm. Position your thumb and index finger on either side of the pit. Pinch and push from the skin side. The pit pops out backward. This feels weird the first time but becomes second nature.

I learned this from a line cook who processed two cases of avocados every morning. If it is good enough for a professional kitchen, it is good enough for my Tuesday taco night.

If You Must Use a Knife: The Safe Way

Some people insist on the knife method. Fine. But do not hold the avocado in your hand. Set the half on a cutting board, pit side up. Gently tap the heel of the knife into the pit—just enough for the blade to catch—then twist. The pit comes out on the knife. Your hand stays nowhere near the blade path.

I still have the scar. It reminds me that showing off in the kitchen is never worth it. My guacamole was good, though.