History
One of the signs of summer is when gardens begin to produce delicious, crisp cucumbers. History tells us that people have been enjoying cucumbers since ancient Egyptian times. Cucumbers actually helped keep those traveling across dry Egyptian deserts hydrated. Egyptian travelers would eat the cucumber flesh but keep the skin intact so it could be used as a canteen to keep water cool. After voyages to eastern lands, Alexander the Great brought cucumbers back to Europe and Julius Caesar brought them to Rome . Christopher Columbus brought the vegetable with him on his journey to the Americas , and by 1494, the cucumber was flourishing in the lands of Haiti . From there, the cucumber found its way all over South and North American lands. The cucumber became very popular in North America after the European settlers brought more along with them.
Adapted from: Cornell Cooperative Extension/Yates County
Availability / Selection / Storage
Availability – The best season for cucumbers is during the summer months of May through July. However, cucumbers can now be found at the grocery stores year round.
Selection – Make sure to select cucumbers that have been stored at cool temperatures, as they are susceptible to heat damage. The skin should be deep green in color and free of yellow spots and wrinkles at the tips. When pressing the cucumber with your thumb, the flesh should be firm, not soft.
Storage – Cucumbers should always be refrigerated and can usually be stored for 4-5 days. If you only use a portion of the cucumber, tightly wrap the remainder of the cucumber in a plastic bag.
Nutrition
Cucumbers not only contain a lot of water but they also contain vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and magnesium. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help fight heart disease, inflammation, and certain forms of cancer. Fiber helps with regularity and can help decrease cholesterol in the blood. Potassium and magnesium both play a role in regulating blood pressure. Besides being nutritious, cucumbers are very refreshing and can make a great addition to any summertime meal!
Adapted from: The World's Healthiest Foods
Nutrient analysis of one cup sliced cucumber with seeds & skin: calories: 14, fat: <0g, cholesterol: 0mg, protein: 1g, carbohydrate: 3g, sodium: 2mg, potassium: 150mg, vitamin A: 224 IU, vitamin C: 6mg, fiber: 1g, folate: 14mcg