Here’s everything you need to know about the most popular types of cucumbers. We’ll cover the most common questions about cucumbers and discover how to use them delicious recipes!
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Cucumbers are one of the most versatile and refreshing vegetables found in kitchens around the world.
While most of us are familiar with the traditional garden cucumber, did you know that there are various other intriguing cucumber varieties to explore?
From the crisp and crunchy to the small and pickling-ready, cucumbers come in a diverse range of shapes, sizes, and flavors. So, next time you’re at the grocery store or planning your garden, consider experimenting with different cucumber varieties.
In this post, we’ll cover the different types of cucumbers along with their unique characteristics and how to best use them in recipes.
Types of Cucumbers
English Cucumbers
Often referred to as “burpless” or “seedless” cucumbers, English cucumbers are known for their long and slender shape. These cucumbers have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a thin, tender skin that doesn’t require peeling. They are perfect for adding a refreshing crunch to salads, sandwiches, or even as an accompaniment to dips and hummus. Try them in this Tomato Cucumber Salad.
Persian Cucumbers
Persian cucumbers are small, thin-skinned cucumbers that are usually around 5-6 inches in length. They have a crisp texture and a refreshing taste. Persian cucumbers are ideal for slicing and adding to salads, or for snacking on their own. Due to their small size, they are also great for pickling or making refrigerator dill pickles. Try them in this Simple Shirazi Salad.
Kirby Cucumbers
Kirby cucumbers, also known as pickling cucumbers, are shorter and thicker than English cucumbers. They have a bumpy skin and a firm texture, which makes them perfect for pickling. Kirby cucumbers retain their crunch even after the pickling process, making them a popular choice for homemade pickles, relishes, and even fermented cucumber recipes. Try them in this Quick Pickled Cucumbers recipe.
Lemon Cucumbers
Lemon cucumbers, as their name suggests, resemble small, round lemons. They have a vibrant yellow color and a mild, slightly citrusy flavor. With their thin skin and tender flesh, lemon cucumbers are a delightful addition to salads, salsas, and chilled soups. They can also be eaten as a refreshing snack, much like their larger cucumber counterparts.
Armenian Cucumbers
Also known as snake cucumbers or snake melons, Armenian cucumbers have a unique appearance and taste. These cucumbers are long and slender, with a pale green, ridged skin. Their flavor is often described as a cross between a cucumber and a melon, offering a subtly sweet and refreshing taste. Armenian cucumbers can be used in salads, gazpachos, or even sliced and enjoyed with a sprinkle of salt as a healthy snack.
Japanese Cucumbers
Japanese cucumbers are slender and typically have a dark green, thin skin. They have a crisp texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. These cucumbers are often used in Japanese cuisine for salads, sushi rolls, or thinly sliced as a garnish for various dishes. Try them in this Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad.
Beit Alpha Cucumbers
Beit Alpha cucumbers originate from the Middle East and are gaining popularity worldwide. They have a small to medium size and a smooth, tender skin. These cucumbers are known for their sweet and crunchy taste, making them a delightful addition to salads or for snacking. They are also suitable for pickling.
Slicing Cucumbers
Slicing cucumbers encompass various cucumber cultivars specifically bred for slicing and consuming fresh. These cucumbers are typically larger and have a thick, dark green skin. They are perfect for making cucumber sandwiches, adding to summer drinks, or using as a base for chilled cucumber soups. Try them in this Cold Cucumber Soup.
White Wonder Cucumbers
White Wonder cucumbers stand out from the rest due to their unique ivory or pale green skin color. These heirloom cucumbers have a crisp texture and a mild, delicate flavor. They are an excellent choice for salads, slicing, or adding an interesting visual element to your culinary creations.
Gherkin Cucumbers
Gherkin cucumbers are small, crunchy cucumbers specifically used for pickling. They have a slightly bumpy or warty skin and are typically harvested when they are 1 to 3 inches long. Gherkins are perfect for making tangy, sour pickles or for adding a zesty bite to relishes and chutneys.
FAQs About Cucumbers
Yes, cucumbers are good for you! They are low in calories and high in water content, making them a hydrating and refreshing snack. Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. They also contain antioxidants and fiber, which can contribute to overall health and digestion.
Cucumbers can be beneficial for weight loss due to their low calorie and high water content. They can help you feel full without adding many calories to your diet. Additionally, cucumbers are a good source of fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote feelings of satiety.
Yes, the skin of cucumbers is edible and contains additional fiber and nutrients. However, it’s essential to wash cucumbers thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticide residue before eating the skin. If you prefer, you can also peel the cucumbers before consuming them.
No, not all cucumbers are green. While the majority of cucumbers are green, there are also other colored varieties available, such as white, yellow, or even striped cucumbers. The color of the cucumber can vary depending on the specific variety.
Cucumbers are most commonly consumed raw, but they can also be cooked in certain dishes. However, when cooked, cucumbers tend to become softer and lose some of their crunch. They are often used in stir-fries, soups, or even lightly sautéed as a part of a warm dish.
Botanically speaking, cucumbers are classified as fruits because they develop from the flower and contain seeds. However, in culinary terms, cucumbers are often considered vegetables due to their common usage in savory dishes.
How to Store Cucumbers
Cucumbers are best stored in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crispness. It’s best to place them in a plastic bag or wrap them in a paper towel to help prevent moisture loss. Whole cucumbers can generally be stored for up to a week, while cut cucumbers should be consumed within a few days.
Cucumber Recipes to Explore
- Quick Pickled Cucumbers
- Tomato Cucumber Salad
- Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
- Cold Cucumber Soup
- Thai Cucumber Salad with Peanuts
- Simple Shirazi Salad (Persian Cucumber Tomato Salad)
- Easy Raita Recipe (Creamy Cucumber Sauce)
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15+ Different Types of Cucumbers
Ingredients
- 1 english cucumber
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 red onion (sliced in half-rounds)
- 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Dressing:
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic (finely grated or minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Halve the cucumber and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Slice the cucumber into ¼ inch thick half moons.
- Place the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion and parsley in a large bowl.
- For the vinaigrette, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, mustard, salt and pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables. Set aside for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serve at room temperature.
Equipment
