How to Pick, Store and Keep Cucumbers Fresh Longer
Fresh, crisp cucumbers are a lovely addition to summer salads, sandwiches and cool drinks. Whether you grow your own or buy them at the local market, getting the knack of picking cucumbers makes a big difference to flavour and texture. Here is some simple, general advice to help you enjoy them at their best.
How to Pick the Best Cucumbers
When picking cucumbers at the shop or farmers’ market, look for firm ones with a deep, even green colour. Gently squeeze along the length. It should feel solid, with no soft spots or wrinkled patches. Avoid any that look yellow, as this often means they are overripe and may taste bitter. Small- to medium-sized cucumbers usually have fewer seeds and a sweeter taste. If you are picking cucumbers from your own vege patch, harvest in the morning while it is cool, and snip the stem with secateurs rather than pulling, which can damage the plant.
How to Store Cucumbers
Cucumbers are sensitive to cold, so storage matters. Keep whole, unwashed cucumbers in the crisper drawer, loosely wrapped in a clean tea towel or paper towel to absorb extra moisture. Avoid the coldest back wall of the fridge, as too much chill can leave the skin pitted and watery. If you have cut one, cover the exposed end with beeswax wrap or pop it in an airtight container, and use it within a few days.
Tips to Keep Cucumbers Fresh Longer
Keep cucumbers away from bananas, apples and tomatoes. These fruits release ethylene gas, which makes cucumbers soften and yellow more quickly. Wash them only just before eating, since extra moisture encourages mould. Check the drawer every couple of days and remove anything turning soft so it does not spoil the rest. Stored well, a whole cucumber should stay crisp for about a week.
Simple Ways to Enjoy Cucumbers
Cucumbers have a high water content, which makes them a refreshing snack on a warm day. Slice them into salads, serve with cream cheese on crackers, or add a few slices and some mint to a jug of cold water. Any leftovers can be pickled in vinegar for a tasty relish.
With a little care when picking cucumbers and a few good storage habits, you can enjoy crisp, flavoursome cucumbers all season long.
