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

Low In Something Preparation Healthy 2 1 Day Or More

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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Healthy Healthy 2 Healthy Salads

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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Low In Something Preparation Low Sodium Time To Make

African Chopped Salad With Yogurt And Brown Butter

A vibrant and flavorful African-inspired chopped salad! This recipe combines fresh, crisp vegetables with a creamy yogurt dressing and nutty brown butter for an unforgettable taste sensation. Served with warm pita bread for dipping, it's a perfect light lunch or side dish. Get ready for a burst of fresh flavors!

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Low In Something Low Fat Low Cholesterol Low Calorie

Agua De Lima Lime Water

Beat the heat with this vibrant and refreshing Agua de Lima! This zesty Mexican limeade is the perfect complement to spicy food, offering a cool and invigorating counterpoint. But here's a twist: adding cucumber juice elevates this classic beverage to a whole new level of deliciousness. Easy to make and bursting with fresh lime flavor, this Agua de Lima recipe is your new go-to summer drink!

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Low Sodium Salads Low In Something Vegan

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 Curries Vegetarian Cuisine

American Kitchen Classic Basic Thai Curry

Unlock the secrets of authentic Thai curry in just 35 minutes! This easy recipe guides you through creating a vibrant and flavorful curry, customizable to your taste. Choose your favorite protein (chicken, tofu, shrimp—the possibilities are endless!), and load it with your preferred vegetables. From the aromatic simmering sauce to the perfectly tender-crisp vegetables, this recipe is your passport to a delicious Thai culinary adventure. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests!

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Course Main Ingredient 15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

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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15 Minutes Or Less Asian Number Of Servings Preparation

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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Technique Low Protein Low Cholesterol Preparation

Aunt Edna's Dill Pickles

These dill pickles, a family favorite, are incredibly crisp and bursting with flavor! Aunt Edna's secret recipe ensures perfectly tangy pickles every time. Get ready to devour jar after jar – but be patient! Allow at least one week, preferably two, for optimal flavor development.

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Brunch Dietary Main Ingredient To Go

Authentic Bavarian Potato Salad

Experience the true taste of Bavaria with this authentic potato salad recipe! This slightly sweet and sour salad features perfectly boiled potatoes tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, then enriched with melted butter for an unforgettable flavor. Feel free to add a refreshing crunch with cucumbers, field salad, or endive for a lighter twist. Serve warm or at room temperature – either way, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This recipe is adapted from a Bavarian family tradition.

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Preparation Salads Preparation Vegetarian

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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Salads Easy Course Preparation

Bacon Tomato Macaroni Salad

This vibrant Bacon Tomato Macaroni Salad is a twist on a classic! Inspired by a family favorite and perfected with a touch of balsamic vinegar, this recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy celery combine for a delightful summer salad that's perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a light weeknight meal. Get ready to impress!

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Chinese Course Chinese 60 Minutes Or Less

Bang Bang Chicken

Experience the explosive flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this Bang Bang Chicken recipe! Tender, bite-sized chicken is tossed in a creamy, spicy, and tangy sauce, then topped with crunchy veggies for a perfect balance of textures. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under an hour. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra touch of nutty aroma and flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Chicken Poultry

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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From Scratch Time To Make Tomatoes Occasion

Beef Lok Lak Cambodian Recipe

Experience the explosive flavors of authentic Cambodian Beef Lok Lak! This sizzling stir-fry, similar to Vietnamese shaking beef (but with a uniquely Cambodian twist!), features tender beef slices marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fragrant spices. Enjoy it the traditional way – wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves with fresh cucumber, tomato, and onion, and dipped in the irresistible, homemade dipping sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve with fluffy rice or crispy fries, and don't forget the fried egg for an extra touch of decadence! Learn the secret to perfectly cooked, flavorful Beef Lok Lak and impress your family and friends with this unforgettable Cambodian dish.

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Summer Summer Time To Make Occasion

Best Macaroni Salad

This easy macaroni salad recipe elevates classic Kraft Mac & Cheese to picnic and potluck perfection! Creamy, dreamy, and bursting with flavor, this crowd-pleasing dish is ready in under 30 minutes. Get ready for rave reviews!

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