Vegetable (culinary), Fruit (botanical) | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Carb Keto

Cucumber

Cucumis sativus Allergens: Oral allergy syndrome (rare, pollen-related)
cucumber

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Cucurbitaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Summer, Year-Round (greenhouse)
  • Source Cucumber plant

The Forktionary Angle

"A hydration powerhouse and crisp texture provider, essential for cooling down palates and adding freshness."

Definition

A long, green, watery fruit botanically, but culinarily used as a vegetable, known for its crisp texture and refreshing, mild taste.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Refreshing, Slightly Grassy, Subtly Sweet
TextureCrisp, Crunchy, Hydrating, Juicy
AromaFresh, Green, Mild
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Key Micronutrient

Vitamin K, Molybdenum

Shelf Life (Whole, Refrigerated)

7-10 days

Water Content

~95%

Nutrition Facts

Per 1/2 cup sliced (52g)
Calories15 kcal
Total Fat0.1g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0.7g
Total Carbohydrate3.6g
Dietary Fiber1.5g
Total Sugars1.7g
Calcium16mg
Iron0.3mg
Potassium147mg

Chef’s Secret

For extra crispness and to reduce bitterness, salt sliced cucumbers and let them sit for 15-30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry before use.

Substitutions

Best Match

Zucchini

1:1

Similar texture when raw, milder flavor when cooked. Good for salads or sautéing.

Celery

1:1

Provides crunch and freshness, but with a more distinct savory flavor. Good for salads.

Iceberg Lettuce

1:1

Offers crunch and high water content, but lacks the body and subtle flavor of cucumber.

Green Bell Pepper

1:1 (chopped)

Adds crunch and a fresh, slightly bitter flavor. Good in salads or stir-fries.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, dark green cucumbers without soft spots. Store away from ethylene-producing fruits.

Flavor Pairings

Dill Mint Yogurt Tomatoes Feta Cheese Vinegar Sesame Oil Salmon.

Recipes Using Cucumber

Easy Easy Low Saturated Fat Time To Make

15 Minute Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad

This vibrant Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad is packed with protein and fresh flavors! Ready in just 15 minutes, it's the perfect healthy and delicious weeknight meal or potluck side dish. Bursting with fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta, this salad is surprisingly light yet satisfying. The simple, healthy dressing allows the fresh ingredients to shine. Get ready for a taste of the Mediterranean, without the long prep time!

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Cuisine Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less Appetizers

7 Layer Dip Greek Style

This vibrant 7-layer dip puts a delicious Mediterranean spin on the classic Mexican favorite! Creamy hummus, savory lamb (or easily adaptable vegetarian!), crisp vegetables, and zesty tzatziki create a flavor explosion. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight meal, served with warm pita chips. Get ready for this crowd-pleasing recipe to disappear in minutes!

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European Low Cholesterol Low Calorie Scandinavian

Agurkesalat Cucumbers In Vinegar

Experience the vibrant flavors of Denmark with this incredibly easy Agurkesalat recipe! This sweet and sour cucumber salad is the perfect refreshing side dish, ready in minutes. Its simple ingredients combine to create a delicious and tangy treat that's even better after a few hours of brining. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch.

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Time To Make For 1 Or 2 Vegetarian Dietary

Algerian Cucumber Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Algerian cucumber salad bursting with fresh herbs and a zesty vinaigrette! Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer. This quick and easy recipe comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Experience the authentic flavors of Algeria with this delicious and healthy salad.

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Salads Course 15 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient

Arroz Con Pollo Salad

This vibrant and flavorful Arroz Con Pollo Salad is a healthy and delicious meal perfect for lunch or dinner! Inspired by Women's Health and Fitness magazine, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with protein and fresh ingredients. Get ready to enjoy a refreshing twist on a classic!

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Dietary Course Pasta Salads

Asian Cucumbers And Pasta

Spice up your weeknight dinner with this vibrant Asian Peanut Noodle recipe! Warm cucumbers, tossed in a creamy peanut butter sauce with zesty ginger and savory soy, create a surprisingly delicious and refreshing twist on traditional pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

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Appetizers Appetizers Preparation Beef

Asian Wraps

Transform leftover flank or brisket into delicious Asian wraps! This 5-minute recipe features crisp lettuce, refreshing cucumbers, crunchy bean sprouts, and savory scallions, all nestled in soft wraps and drizzled with a delectable peanut sauce (recipe #63211 or your favorite!). Perfect as a satisfying lunch or cut into 1-inch rounds for impressive appetizers. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Rice 60 Minutes Or Less Pasta Rice And Grains Free Of Something

Avocado Vegetable Sushi Gluten Free Vegan

Craving delicious, authentic avocado sushi but worried about hidden ingredients and complicated techniques? This easy, gluten-free, and vegan recipe lets you recreate your favorite Japanese takeout at home! I perfected this simple method after just TWO rolls – trust me, it's easier than you think! Make a mix of avocado and vegetable rolls to suit your family's preferences. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to mastering the art of sushi rolling, ensuring a fun and rewarding culinary experience for everyone (bamboo mat required).

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Low Protein Healthy 2 30 Minutes Or Less Low Carb

Avocado Ahdi

Escape the heat with this vibrant Avocado Ahdi salad! Inspired by Moosewood Restaurant's Sunday specials, this no-cook recipe is bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or summer appetizer, the creamy avocado complements the crisp vegetables and zesty lime dressing beautifully. Get ready for a taste of sunshine!

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Low Sodium Low Calorie Meat Poultry

Baked Greek Chicken Salad

A vibrant and flavorful Baked Greek Chicken Salad recipe! Juicy baked chicken breasts seasoned with a zesty spice blend are paired with a refreshing mix of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, salty feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and spinach. Drizzled with a light lemon-oil dressing (or creamy Greek dressing – recipe included!), this complete meal is perfect for a healthy and satisfying lunch or dinner. Get the recipe now!

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Poultry Time To Make Grilling Salads

Barbecue Chicken Cobb Salad

Fire up your taste buds with this mouthwatering Barbecue Chicken Cobb Salad! Juicy grilled chicken, marinated in smoky barbecue sauce, is the star of this vibrant salad. Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, crunchy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese create a symphony of textures and flavors. This elevated Cobb salad is perfect for a summer BBQ, a light weeknight dinner, or a satisfying lunch. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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Oven Chicken To Go Oven

Barbecued Garlic Chicken

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this mouthwatering Barbecued Garlic Chicken recipe! Inspired by the classic Gai Yang, this versatile dish is perfect for a picnic, barbecue, or a crowd-pleasing dinner. Enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with crispy skin, infused with aromatic garlic, zesty lime, and fragrant coriander. This recipe is easily adaptable for whole chickens or individual pieces.

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Main Ingredient Main Ingredient Easy Time To Make

Barley Tabbouleh

This vibrant Barley Tabbouleh recipe, inspired by Out of Self magazine, offers a satisfying twist on the classic. Hearty barley replaces traditional bulgur for a more substantial and flavorful salad. Bursting with fresh herbs, juicy vegetables, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing, this dish is perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant side, or a unique dinner option. Prepare to be amazed by this healthy and delicious recipe!

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Cuisine Low In Something Course Main Ingredient

Basic Fried Rice With Variations

Master the art of fried rice with this versatile recipe! Learned from a Chinese cooking class, this fundamental fried rice provides a base for endless customization. Choose your favorite protein and veggies to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Explore exciting flavor combinations – from classic beef and peppers to unique chicken and bamboo shoot creations. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy-to-follow recipe.

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Healthy 2 Low Fat Pasta Rice And Grains Low Saturated Fat

Bean And Rice Patties In Pita With Yogurt Tahini Dressing

Craving a healthier, flavorful twist on falafel? These hearty bean and rice patties, inspired by Moosewood's low-fat favorites, are packed with spices and nestled in warm pita bread with a creamy yogurt-tahini dressing. A fantastic vegetarian meal that's quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! Customize the spice level to your liking – more cumin and cayenne are always welcome! Prep time excludes brown rice cooking.

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Cuisine Main Dish Dietary Asian

Bi Bim Bap Korean

Recreate the legendary Bi Bim Bap from that tiny Ann Arbor Korean restaurant! This recipe, perfected after countless attempts, captures the magic of their Tuesday-only special. Get ready for a flavor explosion with tender marinated chicken, vibrant vegetables, perfectly cooked eggs, and a rich, homemade Kochujang sauce. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience!

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15 Minutes Or Less Preparation Salad Dressings 15 Minutes Or Less

Biggest Loser White House Salad

Recreate the healthy and delicious salad enjoyed by the cast of NBC's Biggest Loser at the White House! On November 3rd, 2009, contestants harvested fresh veggies from the White House Kitchen Garden alongside Sam Kass and Executive Chef Cris Comerford. This vibrant salad is quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavors – perfect for a light lunch or side dish. Get your taste of healthy White House living!

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3 Steps Or Less Lunch Course 3 Steps Or Less

Greek Feta Burger

Experience the taste of Greece with this mouthwatering Greek Feta Burger recipe! Juicy beef patties infused with salty feta cheese and fresh zucchini are grilled to perfection and topped with a cool, refreshing cucumber-yogurt sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe from Epicurious is perfect for a summer BBQ or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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