3 Ways Cucumbers Can Keep You Healthy

 It was hard to pick a favorite way to use this versatile veggie. So we’re giving you a few ideas on ways to use them and we think you’ll love them all.

1. Add color and nutrients to everyday recipes.

Cucumbers—big on nutrients, but low in calories—are made up of roughly 96% water, and provide our bodies with vitamins C and K, magnesium, potassium, and manganese. Because they’re a great source of water and fiber, they aid with weight loss and digestion.  

The cucumber can be eaten alone, with hummus, added to salads or a sandwich, or if you’re really feeling zesty, you could pickle them. One way you may not have used them before? In salsa. Try this Avocado Cucumber Salsa Verde recipe for a citrus-infused, crunchy addition to chicken, fish, tacos, salads—you name it!

Related: Eat Healthier Using Color

Avocado Cucumber Salsa Verde

½ English cucumber, diced small

1 medium avocado, diced small

1 large green onion, diced small

1 lime, juiced

1 small handful mint, minced

1 small handful cilantro

Salt and pepper

½ tsp. granulated garlic

Honey (optional, to taste)

Minced jalapeńo (optional, to taste)

Directions

Combine cucumber, avocado, green onion, lime juice, mint, and cilantro in a medium bowl. Mix to combine, taking care to not break up the avocado too much.

Season with salt and pepper and granulated garlic, and mix to combine. Taste, and add a small drizzle of honey, if needed. You can also add some minced fresh or pickled jalapeño if you want to make this a spicier salsa. Serve immediately.

2. Suddenly, drinking water isn’t so boring.

I know you’ve heard the old adage to drink eight glasses of water a day. Sounds like a lot, right? Staying hydrated becomes much easier, thanks to the cucumber and a couple of tasty pairings: lemon and mint. Not only does adding a splash of these flavors help you stay hydrated, it can help clear your skin and improve digestion.  

Cucumber, Lemon, and Mint Infused Water

12 cups water

1 medium cucumber

2-3 small lemons

10-12 mint leaves

Just wash and thinly slice the cucumbers and lemons, add them to the water with the               mint leaves, and voila! You’ve got a refreshing way to drink yourself to hydrated, healthier skin.

Refrigerate the infused water 1-2 hours before drinking. Leftover water will keep in the fridge for 24-48 hours (or until fruit tastes bitter).

Related: How Infused Water Can Help You Stay Hydrated

3. Make a relaxing eye mask in one simple step.

All you have to do is cut two slices of cucumber, lie down on the sofa, and relax. The antioxidants and other nutrients in the cucumbers can decrease puffiness around the eyes.

We can’t think of a simpler, cheaper way to start your day or destress after a long day. Because staying healthy includes finding ways to decompress and keep your mental health in check. And this de-stressor can be done in less than five minutes.

So, there you have it! Eat, drink, and destress with the ever-so-cool cucumber. Do you love cucumbers as much as we do? Tell us your favorite recipe using cucumbers in the comments.

Be sure to check out our other healthy living articles.

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