Cucumbers and melons are actually in the same family -- the Cucurbitaceae
-- which has 825 species including squashes and gourds. And like
watermelons, cucumbers are going to offer a lot of water in every bite.
"When it's hot and dry, there is something so refreshing about eating a vegetable that is filled with water," says Heryer.
In addition to being refreshing, cucumbers are used in spa treatments because of the vegetable's silica content which helps keep skin healthy. When you're not putting slices on your eyes, there are lots of options for bringing cucumbers to your dinner table.
If a cucumber has a waxy surface, you should always peel it. If not,
you just have to wash the exterior thoroughly.
Cucumber gazpacho is a simple cold soup that doesn't require you to turn on the oven. Cucumber yogurt sauce, also known as Tzatziki, goes well with grilled chicken. Need a summer drink? A cucumber cocktail, made with vodka and gin, is a beautiful green color.
[Image via Flickr: vizzzual]