The cucumber belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It originates from humid and warm regions, particularly India. In the past, however, cucumbers are said to have had a bitter taste. Today’s cucumbers, as we know them, have spread throughout the temperate zone. The cucumber is the dark green fruit of the cucumber plant; the two main types are the field cucumber and the salad cucumber.
The cucumber is a favourite summer vegetable. It contains a high water content, which is why it is often eaten as a refreshment on hot days. Cucumber goes well with plain yoghurt or the flavour of lime – try using cucumber to decorate a lime cake, or blend a salad cucumber with lime juice and sugar and freeze it – you’ll end up with a delicious frozen treat.
