Cucumber (quarter) Calories

A fresh cucumber feels firm and has taut, evenly coloured skin. Avoid cucumbers with soft spots, wrinkles, yellowing, or a shrivelled stem end. A cucumber that feels unusually light for its size may have dried out.

Cucumbers can taste bitter because they contain natural cucurbitacin compounds, which may be more noticeable near the ends. If only an end tastes mildly bitter, trim it; discard a cucumber that tastes strongly bitter throughout.

No, peeling a cucumber is not necessary; the skin is edible. Rinse it under running water and rub the surface before eating. Peel it if the skin is tough or you prefer a softer texture.

Yes, the soft seeds in an ordinary cucumber are edible and usually do not need to be removed. In an overripe cucumber they may be larger and tougher, so scoop out the centre if you want a crisper texture.

Store unwashed cucumbers dry in the refrigerator, ideally in the crisper drawer. Wrapping them loosely in a paper towel can help absorb excess moisture. Refrigerate cut cucumber in a covered container and use it soon.

Yes, but thawed cucumber becomes soft and watery, so it will not work well in a fresh salad. Freeze slices or chunks for use in smoothies, chilled drinks, or recipes where a crisp texture is not important.

Yes, dogs can eat plain cucumber in small, bite-sized pieces. Remove any seasoning, and offer only a little at first; large pieces can be a choking risk, especially for small dogs.

Cucumber can turn slimy when moisture collects on its surface and it begins to spoil. Discard pieces that feel slick, smell unpleasant, or show mould; keeping unwashed cucumbers dry helps them stay fresh longer.

Cucumber water is made by adding rinsed cucumber slices to a jug of cold water. Chill it so the flavour infuses, then remove the slices if you prefer; adding mint or citrus is optional.