Now that you know the 6 main cucumber juice benefits, we can look at how to choose a cucumber and get down to preparing a delicious cucumber juice recipe. Are cucumbers good for you? By now you know the answer to that! The health benefits are indisputable.
Before reading about cucumbers, you may have been thinking that they don't have much value in terms of nutrients, as they consist mainly of water. You may also have been thinking that they taste very bland. However, it is the 'bland' taste that makes it ideal to use in combination with other fruits and veggies!
By the way, did you know that scientifically speaking, a cucumber is actually a fruit? It belongs to the same family as yummy watermelon! When it comes to cooking however, we tend to view it as a vegetable.
1. How Do I Choose A Cucumber?
Try to buy cucumbers that are not waxed. If they are waxed, you will probably have to peel them, losing the valuable nutrients in the skin.
Buy smooth, firm and dark green cucumbers that are not wrinkly. A yellow tinge means that the cucumber is too old. Soft, squishy spots mean that they have been bruised.
Size doesn't matter. Freshness is more important.
2. What Is The Best Way To Store Cucumbers?
Keep in the refrigerator in a plastic bag, wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container.
If you have some left-over sliced cucumber, you can store it in an airtight container for a few days.
3. What Nutrients Are Found In Cucumbers?
Vitamin C
Vitamin A
Molybdenum (a mineral that has to do with the nervous system and energy production)
Potassium
Manganese
Folate
Trytophan
Magnesium
Silica
4. Cucumber Juice Recipe Prep Work
A good wash is all that is needed. To be on the safe side, you can scrub the cucumber gently with a soft brush.
If it has been waxed, it is safer to peel the cucumber.
5. Ready To Experience The Health Benefits Of A Cucumber Juice Recipe?
Healthy Skin Cocktail
3 Medium Carrots (greens discarded)
1 Red Apple
6cm Cucumber
1,5cm Slice Of Pineapple
Half of a ripe, juicy tomato
Scrub the carrots
Wash the apple and remove the pits
Wash the cucumber. Peel if it has been waxed
Peel the pineapple
Wash the tomato
Run the produce through your vegetable juicer - the recipe should give you 1 large glass of juice or two smaller glasses
You can add some shredded coconut for sweetness, if you wish
Enjoy!
Are you often experiencing a mid-afternoon energy slump? Don't try to perk yourself up with sugary snacks. Why not try a refreshing few slices of cucumber? It is good for you, won't add many calories and is bound to pick you up in no time. Cucumber slices can also be used to freshen your mouth after a meal if you can't get to a toothbrush right away!
So, there you have it. All the health benefits of cucumber juice recipes and fresh cucumber slices. Enjoy the good stuff!
