Cool Cucumbers

Cucumbers may appear to be a bland, watery vegetable yet their crisp cool taste and surprising health benefits make them a valuable addition to your diet. They're perfect for hot summer days when you crave foods that are light and easy to prepare. There are many ways to prepare cucumbers beyond slicing them for salads. Here are some ideas to help you incorporate this inexpensive and healthy vegetable into your meals.

Cucumbers contain essential vitamin C and dietary fiber, as well as being very low in calories. A cup of cucumber only has 13 calories because of its high water content. They can help with hydration, they're good for your skin, and fill you up without packing on a lot of calories. They also contain minerals that contribute to healthy connective tissue, and when applied topically they can reduce swelling, inflammation, and improve your complexion.

If you want to soothe a sunburn and don't have any aloe on hand, try using a cucumber. Slice it in half vertically and place it in the freezer for 10-20 minutes. Rub the cut side of the cucumber over your skin for a soothing, healing effect. You can put them back in the freezer and use several times. Place frozen cucumber slices over swollen, puffy eyes or facial skin, or use for superficial burns in the kitchen. You can make your own facial mask by peeling, seeding and pureeing cucumbers with some honey, yogurt, and oatmeal. Spread over your face and neck for a rejuvenating skin treatment.

Cucumbers are wonderful in summer salads but they have other uses also. You don't have to peel them if you like the texture and color of their skin, but make sure that you wash them thoroughly to remove the waxy layer, or buy organic. English cucumbers are longer and thinner and have less seeds so some people prefer these. One way to serve them as an appetizer is to peel, slice in half vertically, and remove the seeds with a spoon. Mix together herbed goat cheese, light cream cheese, chopped smoked salmon, a minced shallot or garlic clove, chopped chives, and a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Fill the cucumber cavities with this mixture and slice into thick, bite sized pieces. Use your favorite thick dip or filling in the same manner for a unique presentation.

One of my favorite ways to eat cucumbers is inspired by Japanese flavors, and it's very simple. Peel and seed cucumbers, slice very thinly and place in a medium sized bowl. In a small mixing bowl mix together seasoned rice wine vinegar, a teaspoon of sugar or honey, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Pour this over the cucumbers and refrigerate for at least a half hour. Make an extra large batch to keep on hand in the fridge for snacking. They're tangy, sweet, spicy and refreshing.

Peel cucumbers, cut out the center of seeds, and fill each one with a medium sized shrimp either boiled with Old Bay seasoning or steamed. Top with a dollop of cocktail sauce. You can buy prepared cocktail sauce or make your own by simply mixing together ketchup, horseradish (prepared not creamy) and fresh lemon juice.

No matter how you use them cucumbers are a wonderful summer ingredient. Try a few of these tips and you'll enjoy the benefits and refreshing crispness of cucumbers on hot summer days and nights.