“Fresh2U” Nutrition Program for Kids and Parents
Cucumber
Cucumbers were used as foods in ancient Egypt and were also a popular food with the Greeks and Romans. Columbus brought cucumbers to the New World where Indians shared the seeds with others. A hundred years later colonists found the vegetable when they settled in Virginia.
Florida cucumbers are available from October through June.
Cucumbers are waxed to improve appearance and freshness and to reduce shriveling due to water loss. When buying them for slicing, choose those that are firm, bright, fresh, well shaped, and a good green color. When refrigerated and kept moist, they typically last 10 to 14 days.
When using cucumbers, use older ones before using newer ones, and cut only the amount you’ll need for one day. Wash in cold water before preparing, but don’t soak them. The skin holds in moisture, so leave it on.
A refreshing touch in salads, cucumbers are very low in calories and are a good source of vitamin E and potassium.
