Grown in the UK generally from late spring through to October if it’s warm. Ever wondered where the term ‘cool as a cucumber’ comes from? It’s probably because the inside of a cucumber can be over 10 degrees cooler than its skin, even in hot weather!
How to store Cucumbers
They can last for a week or more in the salad drawer of your fridge.
How to prepare Cucumbers
Nothing to do here! Just rinse. You can chop the ends if you prefer. There’s no need to peel either. If you are using a cucumber where you don’t want too much water from it then halve it lengthways and scoop out the seedy section.
How to cook Cucumbers
Raw
Probably the only way you’re used to eating a cucumber! However, they are really good cooked too.
Fry
Cut into batons and fry in a little coconut oil and garlic until crisp.
Steam
Peel and deseed the cucumber and chop into chunks and steam for a few minutes. Goes great with mint or dill.
Grill
Cut any way you like, batons, wedges, rings and rub with a little oil and place under a hot grill for around 5 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
Bake
Peel and deseed the cucumber and chop into chunks. Spread into a roasting tin with some oil and bake for 30 minutes at 200’C or until tender and slightly browned.
Ingredients that work well with Cucumbers
- Feta cheese
- Basil
- Chervil
- Chives
- Dill
- Mint
- Melon
- Watermelon
- Salmon
- Mackerel
- Prawns
- Tomatoes
- Walnuts
- Hummus
- Yoghurt