Monday, July 25, 2016
This veggie is not only a spa day accessory, but can also be the perfect ingredient to a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Cucumber's mild flavor also makes it a great addition to all kinds of dishes, so it's easy to stay "as cool as a cucumber" all summer long.
You've probably seen pictures of people relaxing at a spa with giant slices of cucumbers over their eyes. This is because cucumbers have the ability to help reduce swelling, irritation and inflammation when used topically.
If the summer heat has you feeling sluggish, cucumbers are a snack that can double as a quick pick me-up. Since they're over 90% water and contain most of the vitamins the body needs in a day, cucumbers can help keep your body stay hydrated. In addition to being low in calories, their high water content also makes cucumbers an ideal snack for those looking to lose weight.
While cucumbers are available year round, they are best during their peak in the summer. When selecting cucumbers, look for the ones that are firm and rounded at their edges. Cucumbers are the perfect refreshing ingredient in salads, sandwiches and an array of appetizers. Give one of these easy and delicious recipes a try this summer!
Nutritional Information
0.5 cup slices
Calories: 8
Fat: 0.1 g (0%)
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 1 mg
Potassium: 76 mg (2%)
Total Carbohydrates: 1.9 g (0%)
Dietary fiber: 0.3 g
Sugar: 0.9 g
Protein: 0.3 g (0%)
Vitamin A: 1%
Vitamin C: 2%
Calcium: 0%
Magnesium: 1%
Iron: 0%
Vitamin B-6: 0%
Vitamin D: 0%
Vitamin B-12: 0%
Recipes
Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers, or 1 large English cucumber
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
Directions:
- Peel cucumbers to leave alternating green stripes. Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise; scrape the seeds out with a spoon. Using a food processor or sharp knife, cut into very thin slices. Place in a double layer of paper towel and squeeze gently to remove any excess moisture.
- Combine vinegar, sugar and salt in a medium bowl, stirring to dissolve. Add the cucumbers and sesame seeds; toss well to combine. Serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 1 medium avocado, cut into chunks
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 clove garlic, coarsely chopped
- 2 tsp. fresh lime juice
- Sea salt (or Himalayan salt) and ground black pepper (to taste; optional)
- 2 large cucumbers
- Toothpicks
- Ground paprika (for garnish; optional)
Directions:
- Place avocado, basil, garlic, and lime juice in a food processor (or blender). Season with salt and pepper if desired; pulse until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Use a vegetable peeler to peel off long, thin slices of cucumbers.
- Spread avocado mixture evenly on each cucumber slice.
- Pick up one end of the cucumber slice and roll cucumber loosely around the filling. End with the seam on bottom and secure with a toothpick.
- Garnish with paprika if desired.