Cucumbers
- Cucumbers are scientifically known as Cucumis sativus and belong to the same family as watermelon, zucchini, pumpkin, and other types of squash
- Cucumbers originated in India where they have been grown for 3,000 years.
- Cucumbers are available year-round.
- Cucumbers are long and cylindrical with a green skin and crisp white inside.
- Cucumbers grow on a vine. They prefer sandy soil because it warms up faster in the spring.
- Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need every day, just one cucumber contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc.
- Cucumbers are a good source of B Vitamins and Carbohydrates that can provide that quick pick-me-up that can last for hours.
- Cucumbers' hard skin is rich in fiber and contains a variety of beneficial minerals including silica, potassium and magnesium.
- The flesh of cucumbers is primarily composed of water but also contains ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and caffeic acid, both of which help soothe skin irritations and reduce swelling.
- Cucumbers are 95% water!
- Varieties of cucumber are grown either to be eaten fresh or to be pickled.