Cucumber is a culinary vegetable that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family and is closely related to squash and different kinds of melon. Cucumber has been used in Indian cooking for their refreshing taste and health benefits for centuries. Now, cucumber is a widely cultivated vegetable that is part of many cuisines, especially the Mediterranean diet.
Cucumber has high water content and is low in calories. It also has very little fat, protein, fibre, and carbohydrates. However, it is a treasure trove of many essential nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, lignans, beta carotene, folate, vitamins A, B, C, and K, phosphorous, potassium, lutein, zeaxanthin, and sodium.
Health Benefits of Cucumber
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Studies indicate that the nutrients present in cucumber have several benefits for the skin which include anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. By applying sliced cucumber directly to the skin, we can reduce swelling, irritation, sun damage, and morning puffiness.
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Cucumber’s high potassium and low sodium quantity help prevent high blood pressure. Its fiber content also helps people manage their cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular problems.
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Cucumber is a rich source of vitamin K and calcium. Vitamin K aids with blood clotting and supports bone health by improving calcium absorption.
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A cup of cucumber has 137 grams of water. Cucumber also contains electrolytes that prevent dehydration from sweating in hot weather or after a workout. Being hydrated is essential for preventing constipation, avoiding kidney stones, and maintaining a healthy gut.
Fun Cucumber Recipes
Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita- The tomato onion cucumber raita is a delicious yogurt and refreshing dish. Made with green chilies, cumin powder, tomato, onion, and yogurt. It is a great accompaniment to rice and paranthas.
Cucumber peanut salad- Made with fresh cucumbers, salted peanuts, and fresh coriander, the cucumber peanut salad is a refreshing salad that mixes the goodness of cucumber with the crunchiness of salted peanuts and coriander leaves.
Kheere ka raita- Kheere ka raita is a great summertime accompaniment to meals. Made with grated cucumber, plain yogurt, cumin powder, and black salt, this raita is a must-have during scorching heat as it cools down the whole body.
Scrambled egg sandwich with cucumber slices- Eggs are a powerhouse of essential nutrients and along with cucumber on a slice of bread, it makes the perfect wholesome breakfast. All you’ll need is scrambled eggs (any way you like it), cucumber slices, and well-toasted slices of bread.
Stir-Fried Cucumber- Stir-fried cucumber is the perfect healthy twist on the Indo-Chinese stir-fry. For this dish, all you’ll need is chopped garlic, ginger, spring onions, sliced cucumbers, soy sauce, and hot chili sauce. On a medium to high flame, toss the ingredients for 2 to 3 minutes and serve them as a side dish.
Smashed Cucumbers with Sesame Oil and Garlic- Smashed cucumbers with sesame oil and garlic is another Indo-Chinese classic. This fresh side dish/salad is made by roughly smashing cucumbers and tossing them in some crushed garlic, chili sauce, and sesame oil.
Kheere ke Pakode- While it might seem counterintuitive to fry cucumber, a nutrient-dense vegetable, however, everybody deserves a treat sometimes. Kheere ke pakode is a fantastic evening snack, especially during monsoons.
Cucumber Ginger Lemonade- While cucumber juice is devoid of fibre, it still contains all of the nutrients. Cucumber ginger lemonade is the perfect refreshing drink to satiate your taste buds and keep you hydrated during the summer. Plus, both ginger and lemon are also nutrient dense and are good for clearing the toxins from our bodies and keeping our gut happy.
