Did you know ?
- Cucumbers are over 95% water, making them incredibly hydrating.
- Applying cucumber slices to the eyes can help reduce puffiness.
- Some varieties of cucumbers can grow to be over two feet long!
Cucumber
The cucumber is a refreshing, hydrating member of the gourd family. Though botanically a fruit, it’s often used culinarily as a vegetable. Known for its mild flavor and high water content, it’s a versatile addition to salads, snacks, and drinks.
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Detailed nutritional values
Section titled “ Detailed nutritional values”Values of one medium cucumber (~300g) :
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Proteins | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
| of which sugars | 5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Fats | 0g |
Vitamins and minerals
Main vitamins
Main minerals and trace elements
Nutritional values may vary depending on variety, ripeness, and growing conditions.
How to know if a cucumber is ripe
Section titled “ How to know if is ripe”
Perfectly ripe
Firm, dark green, and crisp with a refreshing and slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is firm, and the seeds are small and tender.
How to recognize this state :
- Firm but yielding texture
- Dark green color
- Smooth skin, without blemishes
- Slightly sweet flavor
- Hydrating and crisp
- Shape is smooth and rounded
- Seeds are small and tender
- Weighty for it's size
Advice for ripe products
Enjoy raw in salads, sandwiches, or as a snack. Store in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.
Varieties examples
Section titled “ Varieties examples”English Cucumber (hothouse)
Long, thin-skinned with small seeds and mild flavor, often sold wrapped in plastic.
Slicing Cucumber (American)
Thick skin, larger seeds, and a slightly bitter taste; commonly found in supermarkets.
Persian Cucumber
Small, crisp, and nearly seedless; similar to English cucumbers but shorter.
Lemon Cucumber
Round, yellow cucumber with a slightly sweet and mild flavor.
How to choose a cucumber
Section titled “ How to choose ”To choose a quality cucumber at the supermarket or market :
- Select cucumbers that are firm, heavy for their size, and free from blemishes.
- Choose cucumbers with smooth, dark green skin.
- Avoid cucumbers that are overly large or have yellow spots, as they may be overripe.
- Look for cucumbers with a slight firmness when gently squeezed.
How to store a cucumber
Section titled “ How to store ”Store unwashed cucumbers in the refrigerator's crisper drawer.
Wrap cucumbers in plastic wrap to help retain moisture.
Use within one week for best quality.
Avoid storing cucumbers near ethylene-producing fruits, such as bananas or tomatoes.
How to ripen a cucumber
Section titled “ How to ripen ”Cucumbers don't typically 'ripen' after harvest, but here's how to prevent spoilage :
- Cucumbers are best when harvested at peak ripeness.
- To maintain freshness, store them properly in the refrigerator.
Health benefits of a cucumber
Section titled “ Health benefits of ”- High in water content, promoting hydration
- Low in calories, making it a good choice for weight management
- Good source of vitamin K for bone health
- Contains antioxidants that may protect against cell damage
- Promotes healthy digestion due to fiber content
Origin of a cucumber
Section titled “ Origin of ”Cucumbers originated in India and have been cultivated for over 3,000 years. From there, they spread to Greece and Rome and, later, to the Americas with European colonization. Today, cucumbers are enjoyed worldwide.
Regions of origin
- India (Origin)
- Middle East
- Greece and Rome
- The Americas
Cook a cucumber according to its ripeness
Section titled “ Cook according to its ripeness”Unripe
- Cucumber and mint cooler
- Cucumber infused water
- Cucumber ice cubes
Perfectly ripe
- Cucumber salad with dill and yogurt
- Tzatziki sauce
- Cucumber raita
Too ripe
- Cucumber relish
- Sweet cucumber pickles
- Cucumber chutney
Frequently asked questions
Section titled “ Frequently asked questions”Warnings and precautions for a cucumber
Section titled “ Warnings and precautions for ”- Some people may be allergic to cucumbers.
- Bitter cucumbers should be avoided due to high cucurbitacin content.
- Wash cucumbers thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides.
- Excessive consumption may lead to mild digestive issues in some individuals.
Do not confuse with
Has a similar shape and texture, but zucchini is typically darker green and has a different flavor profile.
Are cucumbers that have been preserved in brine or vinegar.