Sometimes, you just need to eat a whole cucumber. And there are so many delicious ways to do it. Here are 10 of our fave cucumber recipes, from refreshing cucumber salads to zesty cucumber juice boosters, and everything in between.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Say hello to summer flavor! This medley of cucumbers, tomatoes and red onions is one of the tastiest ways to use up your tomato harvest. It’s loaded with textures, from juicy tomatoes to crunchy cucumber, and features an easy garlicky dressing that lets the veggies’ flavors take center stage. Serve it topped with feta, parm or fresh mozzarella for an easy and delicious side.
Zesty Corn and Cucumber Salad
Add this one to your summer salad list, too: This vibrant cucumber-studded salad is sure to be a favorite all summer long. Inspired by elotes, or Mexican street corn, it features a tangy mayo and lime dressing, infused with paprika for a hint of smokiness. Make this one with fresh summer corn in the warmer months, and frozen corn all year long.
Spiced Cucumber and Apple Morning Boost
Meet your new favorite way to start the day. This homemade juice booster is both sweet and tart, thanks to clementines and Granny Smith apples, refreshing, thanks to cucumber, and just a little spicy, thanks to a pinch of cayenne pepper. Best of all, there’s no juicer required — simply blend the ingredients and you’re ready to go.
Greek Vegetable Salad with Herb Vinaigrette
Nothing beats a classic Greek salad — and this tasty option deserves a spot on your lunch menu. It’s packed with classic Greek flavors you love — creamy, briny feta, sweet tomatoes and, of course, refreshing cucumber — drizzled with a herb and white wine vinaigrette.
Cool Cucumber Salad
Sometimes, the best salads are the simplest ones. And this simple-yet-delicious recipe lets the cucumber take center stage. A homemade dill vinaigrette complements the sweet, earthy flavors of the cucumber — and adds subtle dill pickle vibes to the dish — while sliced onions add satisfying crunch. Save time on meal prep by using a mandolin to slice the cucumber thinly, then enjoy.
Cucumber Herb Gazpacho with Watermelon Croutons
Speaking of refreshing, this gazpacho is a must-serve on sizzling summer days. Our recipe trades traditional tomatoes for cucumbers, and uses Japanese and Thai pantry staples, like mirin and fish sauce, to amp up the flavor. Watermelon “croutons” add pops of sweetness and crunch, contrasting the savory notes in the soup.
Ground Turkey Cucumber Sushi Roll
Whether you need a crowd-pleasing app or just want a refreshing light dinner, these cucumber “sushi” rolls are just what you need. The filling is rich and satisfying — creamy avocado, savory turkey and a lemony garlic aioli — while the cucumber keeps these from feeling too heavy.
Smoky Sweet Pickles with Strawberries
Craving pickles? It’s easier than you think to make your own. This easy pickle recipe leans on staple seasonings, like mustard seed and pickling spices, as well as a dash of curry powder adds earthiness and just a hint of heat.
East African Fresh Tomato and Cucumber Salad
Warm, refreshing and vibrant, this East African-inspired recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It pairs cucumbers with crunchy carrots and sweet tomatoes for a medley of flavors and textures, then adds freshness with a herbed honey-lime dressing.
Apple Cucumber Chilled Green Tea
We saved the most refreshing for last! This cucumber apple iced green tea has serious spa vibes, and it’ll become one of your favorite ways to hydrate. It works equally well as an everyday treat or a crowd-pleasing mocktail, and you can adapt the recipe for happy hour by adding 4 ounces of vodka to the batch.
