Cucumbers
Spring, Summer, Fall
Health Benefits
Consuming cucumbers improves memory and protects nerve cells from age-related decline. They also contain an anti-inflammatory property called fisetin that plays an important role in brain health. Cucumbers reduce your risk of cancer, fights inflammation, helps manage stress, freshens breath, supports a healthy digestive track, supports heart health, is high in vitamins, and contains several antioxidant properties.
History
Cucumbers originated from ancient India, where it grew wild. Around 3 millennia BC, early Indians managed to domesticate cucumber and started infusing it with their rich cuisine. Roman Empire used cucumbers as a source of medical remedies; everything from bad eyesight to curing scorpion bites. In 1494, Christopher Columbus brought cucumbers to Haiti, where Spanish settlers distributed them across the New World. Native Americans in the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains were introduced to cucumbers by European trappers in North America.
Recipes to Try
How to Store
Wash cucumbers thoroughly before storing. Cucumbers do best inside the refrigerator, set at a relatively high humidity. If this is not an option, store at room temperature. Cucumbers will keep for 4 to 7 days.
How to Prepare
Scrub and rinse cucumber under cold running water to remove any dirt. Remove stems and slice off blossom ends. Cut lengthwise into long strips or cut into quarter-inch rounds across the width of the cucumber. Sprinkle a small amount of sea salt onto the slice and let sit for 30 minutes in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor.
Ways to Enjoy
Try marinating cucumber slices with vinegar, pickling, or making a relish with other veggies. Blend peeled cucumbers for a refreshing agua fresca drink. Top cucumber slices with cream cheese and assorted toppers for an easy appetizer. Mix chopped and seeded cucumber with orzo or couscous. Make a cucumber pasta, slaw, salsa, sauce, soup, or salad. Cucumbers are also great in stir-fry and on sandwiches.
Health Benefits
Consuming cucumbers improves memory and protects nerve cells from age-related decline. They also contain an anti-inflammatory property called fisetin that plays an important role in brain health. Cucumbers reduce your risk of cancer, fights inflammation, helps manage stress, freshens breath, supports a healthy digestive track, supports heart health, is high in vitamins, and contains several antioxidant properties.