Cucumber

Get to know cucumbers!

When is it seasonal? Summer to fall 

Varieties: 

  • Slicing Cucumbers: tend to be more crisp and refreshing, making them a good additive for a salad or snack option 

  • Pickling Cucumbers:tend to be smaller and more firm than slicing cucumbers, making them good for pickling

  • Specialty Cucumbers: usually seen at farmers markets instead of supermarkets; visually more unusual and considered a “novelty”

Nutrition: Being a good source of water and high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, cucumbers are naturally nutritious and provide a number of great health benefits. This makes them a versatile option for those looking to improve immune system function and hydration.

Culinary Basics: Slice them raw for salads and dips. Grate them and add them to yogurt sauces like tzatziki. You can also blend them to make a chilled soup. For a quick pickle, soak sliced cucumbers in vinegar for at least 20 minutes. You can even grill cucumbers and top with salt and spices!