Cucumber
Cucumbers form part of the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae. There are four main markets for cucumber in Australia: continental, Lebanese, slicing and snacking. Native to South Asia but is now grown and consumed around the world.
Cucumbers are ideally grown during the late spring, summer and autumn seasons and winter in tropical places. They are an excellent source of plant nutrients, such as lignans and triterpenes, that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and are a great source of vitamins K, C, and potassium.
Cucumbers are typically eaten raw and have a mild, refreshing taste and a crisp texture. They can be served in many ways, such as in salads, sandwiches, or as garnish. They can also be pickled, which is a common way of preserving them for longer-term storage.
