If you’re trying to add more vegetables to your diet, cucumbers are a favorite and fresh addition to any dish. Their peak season is May through August, but you can find them in most grocery stores year-round. Here are 4 big reasons why we love cucumbers:
- Cucumbers are high in water content. Staying hydrated is important. Ever hear someone say ‘Eat your water’? That’s exactly the idea with cucumbers, they’re over 90% water. Tip within a tip: Add a few slices to your water to give it a refreshing, crisp flavor. Double good.
- They’re good for us. Cucumbers are nutrient-packed despite being low in calories. They contain nutrients like potassium, fiber, vitamin K, antioxidants plus lignans and phytonutrients, which research shows lowers your risk of cancer.
- They keep us regular. Since cucumbers are excellent sources of fiber and water, they can prevent or alleviate constipation.
- They’re good for our teeth too. Again, fiber and water are important to good oral health. Self-conscious about your breath? Snack on cucumbers to increase the water content in your mouth and wash away germs.
Ready to add cucumbers to your menu this week? Try this super simple salad to get started.
What you’ll need:
- 2 fresh avocados, cubed
- 1 medium English cucumber, sliced
- 2 tablespoons dill, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1/4 small onion, chopped*
What to do:
- For the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the avocado, tomatoes, fresh dill and fresh parsley.
- On a plate, set cucumbers and place mixture on top.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Serve immediately.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices like chili powder for a kick or cilantro for a tang.*
Helping you keep life healthy and delicious.
Trust the experts at Augusta University Health with all of your health and wellness needs. For recipes and more healthy eating tips, browse our healthy recipes.
Sources:
Original recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association. Per serving: 150 calories, 2g of protein, 5g of fiber. *These substitutions or additions have been included from Augusta University Health staff. Any additions may affect nutritional information provided by the American Heart Association.
US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health-
