5 refreshing cucumber dishes to beat the summer heat
What's the story
Cucumbers are the most versatile, hydrating ingredient to whip up refreshing dishes in the hot summer months.
Famous for their high water content, cucumbers can keep you cool and hydrated.
They are also low in calories, making them an amazing choice for light meals or snacks.
Here are five cucumber-based dishes that can keep you refreshed and energized when the mercury soars.
Simple salad
Classic cucumber salad
A classic cucumber salad is another quick and easy dish that needs few ingredients.
Thinly slice cucumbers and toss them with vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add some chopped dill or mint for an extra kick.
Not only is this salad refreshing, it also gives a crisp texture to any meal.
Creamy dip
Cucumber yogurt dip
Cucumber yogurt dip is a creamy accompaniment that is perfect for dipping vegetables, or even spreading on bread.
All you need to do is grate some cucumbers and mix them with plain yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
This dip gives you a cooling effect, thanks to yogurt's creaminess and cucumber's freshness.
Cold soup
Chilled cucumber soup
For a light yet satisfying starter on sweltering hot days, chilled cucumber soup is perfect.
Just blend cucumbers with Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and dill until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Best served cold, it offers a soothing experience while you benefit from its nutritious ingredients.
This dish combines hydration with flavor, making it an ideal choice for summer dining.
Zesty noodles
Spicy cucumber noodles
Spicy cucumber noodles are a light alternative to pasta.
Use a spiralizer to create cucumber strips, which look like noodles.
These are then tossed with soy sauce, chili flakes, or sriracha for heat.
This dish balances the coolness of cucumbers with spicy flavors, providing a unique twist on pasta that's perfect for summer meals.
Tangy pickles
Pickled cucumbers
Pickled cucumbers provide tangy flavors that can enhance sandwiches or serve as standalone snacks during summer picnics or barbecues.
Slice cucumbers into rounds before submerging them in vinegar mixed with sugar (or honey), a saltwater solution along with spices like mustard seeds, if desired; let sit overnight before enjoying their tangy goodness!