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  5. Cucumbers

Cucumbers

Cucumbers
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sliced cucumber on cutting board

Cucumbers originated in India thousands of years ago. Cucumbers come in several varieties which can be used for different purposes. Some varieties are usually pickled while others are eaten raw.

Nutrition and Health Benefits of Cucumbers

Cucumbers contain water to help keep you hydrated. Cucumbers also have fiber, which helps maintain bowel function. Potassium is a mineral found in cucumbers which helps regulate fluid balance and muscle contractions. Vitamin C is in cucumbers, which helps heal cuts and wounds.

How to Select Cucumbers

Choose firm cucumbers with a dark green color. Avoid if there is a bulge in the middle of the cucumber or if there are soft spots.

How to Store Cucumbers

Store unwashed cucumbers in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to one week.

How to Prepare Cucumbers

  • Add to a sandwich or whole wheat wrap
  • Try cucumbers on a salad
  • Use cucumbers in a gazpacho
  • Add cucumbers to a coleslaw
  • Make your own tzatziki dip
  • Add to a quinoa, brown rice or whole grain pasta salad
  • Cut into slices or sticks and dip into hummus

Seasonal Availability of Cucumbers in Nebraska

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Harvest x x x
Market x x x

Featured Recipes

Turkey and Cucumber Sandwich Turkey and Cucumber Sandwich
Tomato and cucumber salad Tomato and Cucumber Salad
cucumber bites on a gray plate Cucumber Bites
Tzatziki Dip Tzatziki Dip

Materials to Print

The Seasonal Produce Handouts page includes a variety of handouts, recipes, and recipe cards that are available as downloadable PDFs. You can use these resources in your educational programs.

View Seasonal Produce Handouts

Source:

  • Seasonal Produce Guide - Cucumbers, SNAP-Ed Connection
  • Nebraska Harvest Schedule, Buy Fresh Buy Local Nebraska

Tags:

cucumber nutrition seasonal produce vegetables

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