Cucumber

Cucumis sativus Vegetable, Fruit (botanically)

Cucumber Vegetable, Fruit (botanically)

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable, Fruit (botanically)

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

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

Key Micronutrient Vitamin K, Molybdenum
Shelf Life (Whole, Refrigerated) 7-10 days
Water Content ~95%

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cucumber are:

Mild fresh watery slightly bitter (skin)

Chef’s Secret

To reduce bitterness and excess water, slice cucumbers, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing and patting dry.

Best Substitutes

Zucchini

in cooked dishes
Ratio 1:1

Celery

for crunch
Ratio 1:1

Jicama

for crunch and mild flavor
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose firm, dark green cucumbers without soft spots or blemishes. Smaller cucumbers are often less watery and have fewer seeds.

Recipes Using Cucumber

Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Vegetarian Easy

Armenian Tossed Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Armenian Tossed Salad recipe, inspired by a classic from Good Food Magazine (October 1986). This recipe features crisp romaine and chicory tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or starter for your next Armenian-inspired feast! Get ready to experience the taste of an Armenian evening!

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5 Minute Salad

Ready in just 5 minutes, this vibrant salad is the perfect healthy and delicious lunch or light dinner when you're short on time. Packed with fresh veggies and a zesty lemon-balsamic dressing, it's a quick and satisfying meal. Add your favorite protein like grilled chicken or fish, some cheese, and crusty bread for a complete and customizable meal! Looking for more healthy, gluten-free, low-GI, and pescatarian recipes? Visit www.Innerharmonynutrition.com

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Soy Tofu Soy Tofu Main Dish Occasion

Asian Style Tofu And Cucumber Noodles

A vibrant and refreshing vegetarian noodle dish inspired by BBC Good Food! This quick and easy recipe combines crispy pan-fried tofu with cool cucumber and a zesty soy-ginger-lime dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful weeknight dinner. Get ready to savor the delicious combination of textures and tastes!

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Course Dietary Low Fat Low Saturated Fat

Basil Cucumber Salad

This vibrant Indonesian salad is quick, easy, and incredibly refreshing! Made with crisp cucumbers, fragrant basil, and a zesty vinegar dressing, it's the perfect side dish for any meal. Prepare it in minutes and let it marinate for a burst of flavor that complements everything from grilled meats to noodle dishes. Get ready for a taste of Indonesia!

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Dinner Party 60 Minutes Or Less Chick Peas Garbanzos Free Of Something

Aquagrill's Falafel Crusted Salmon

Recreate the iconic Aquagrill NYC dining experience with this show-stopping recipe! Flaky salmon is encrusted in a vibrant falafel crust, then broiled to perfection. Served with homemade hummus and a refreshing lemon-coriander salad – this kosher and gluten-free masterpiece is a culinary adventure you won't forget. Leftover falafel crust freezes beautifully for future use!

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Salads Occasion 30 Minutes Or Less European

Albanian Tossed Salad

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Albanian Tossed Salad! A popular Albanian twist on a Greek classic, this refreshing salad combines crisp romaine and red leaf lettuce with creamy feta, briny olives, juicy tomatoes, and earthy mushrooms. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, it's the perfect side dish or light meal. Get ready to be amazed!

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60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Barefoot Contessa's Greek Panzanella

Ina Garten's vibrant Greek Panzanella bursts with fresh flavors! This easy, crowd-pleasing salad features crusty bread, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette. Perfect for a summer lunch or light dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed hit! Inspired by her 'What Are Friends For?' episode.

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Dietary Cuisine Low Carb Preparation

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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Preparation 1 Day Or More Course Pasta

Red Macaroni Salad

Say goodbye to boring macaroni salad! This vibrant recipe ditches the mayonnaise for a surprisingly delicious and refreshing twist. Intrigued by its unique color? Don't be! One taste and you'll be hooked. This make-ahead salad is perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or any summer gathering. Best made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld, it's a crowd-pleaser that's both tasty and visually stunning.

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Lunch Cheese Preparation Main Ingredient

Bacon Tomato Sandwich With Cheddar

Elevate your lunchtime classic with this irresistible Bacon Tomato Cheddar Melt! Crispy bacon, juicy tomato, and sharp cheddar cheese are perfectly complemented by a zesty mayonnaise and mustard spread, all nestled between toasted onion buns. Quick, easy, and satisfying, this recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a casual dinner paired with fries and a salad. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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North American Refrigerator Equipment Time To Make

7 Cup Salad

This incredibly easy 7-Cup Salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser! With just 7 ingredients (one cup of each!), it's ready in minutes and perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a light weeknight meal. Get ready for a burst of fresh flavors!

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Fish Course Shellfish Crab

Antipasto Seafood Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Antipasto Seafood Salad perfect for a light lunch or elegant appetizer! This recipe combines succulent crab meat with crisp cucumbers, marinated artichoke hearts, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette. Easy to prepare ahead, it's the perfect make-ahead dish for parties or a special occasion.

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Healthy Chicken 60 Minutes Or Less Low Saturated Fat

Asian Chicken Salad With Glass Noodles

Craving a vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired meal? This spicy chicken salad with glass noodles is the perfect recipe! Tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and delicate glass noodles tossed in a zesty chili-lime dressing create an unforgettable culinary experience. Customize the spice level to your liking – substitute sweet chili sauce or mix with the hot chili sauce for a milder kick. Best of all, the flavors deepen over time, so it's even better after a few hours in the fridge! Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

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To Go Spring Salads Side Dishes

April's Favorite Pasta Salad

This 7-year family favorite pasta salad recipe features a homemade dressing inspired by Heinz Gourmet Salad Vinegar. Forget bottled Italian dressing! This vibrant salad is bursting with fresh veggies (easily customizable to your preferences – add cauliflower, cannellini beans, or anything you crave!), and it's the perfect side dish for everything from strombolis to grilled chicken. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you saying 'looooove it!'

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation Salads

Asian Tofu Salad

Experience a flavor explosion with this vibrant Asian Tofu Salad! Crispy pan-fried tofu, tossed with a zesty sesame ginger dressing and crunchy fresh vegetables, makes this a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal. Perfect for a light lunch or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. Serve warm with crunchy breadsticks and a refreshing glass of iced jasmine tea for a complete culinary experience.

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Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less 3 Steps Or Less Easy

Quinoa Spring Summer Salad Gluten Free

This vibrant Quinoa Spring Summer Salad is a refreshing and healthy recipe perfect for showcasing the best of summer produce! Inspired by Alive Magazine's July 2010 issue, this salad bursts with flavor from fresh cucumbers, peas, bell peppers, and red onions. Using red quinoa adds a beautiful pop of color and a slightly nutty flavor (watch it closely to avoid overcooking!). Easily customizable, this recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple vinaigrette (try recipe #431876 for inspiration). Makes a generous serving, perfect as a side dish for 8. For best results, toss with dressing just before serving to maintain the vibrant flavors.

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less

Avocado Chicken Melt

This creamy Avocado Chicken Melt recipe elevates the classic chicken melt to new heights! Inspired by a Tyson recipe, we've tweaked it for maximum flavor. Juicy chicken breasts are perfectly coated in crispy panko, then topped with creamy avocado and melted cheese. Served on toasted bread with a vibrant yogurt and red bell pepper sauce (or your favorite ranch!), it's a satisfying and easy weeknight meal. Optional additions like sliced green onions and cucumber add extra freshness and crunch!

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Healthy 2 Low Saturated Fat For 1 Or 2 Vegetables

Best Darn Cucumber Sandwich Out There

This simple recipe for the BEST cucumber sandwich will change your life! My mom's secret? Perfectly toasted bagels, creamy mayo, and thinly sliced cucumbers. It's quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious – the perfect light lunch or snack. Get ready to be hooked!

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