How to Select and Store Cucumbers

Did you know that cucumber is one of the widely cultivated vegetables in the world? It figures next to tomatoes, cabbage and the onions. Though it looks cool, the healing properties of cucumber are quite amazing. Lignans, present in cucumbers show reduced risk in developing cardiovascular diseases and cancers. The phytonutrients in cucumber play a key role in providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Here are tips on how to select and store this commonly found vegetable at the grocery stores.

Selection

• Cucumbers should be firm and rounded at the edges.
• Look for cucumbers that are bright medium to dark green in color.
• Avoid those that are yellow, wrinkled or have puffy or sunken areas.
• They should look relatively heavy for the size.
• Watch out for cuts, spots and check if you can easily bend the cucumber.

Storage

• You can keep them fresh if you store them in the refrigerator. However, remember to use it up before 3 days from the date of purchase up to a maximum of 6-7 days.
• Store them unpeeled to retain its nutrients. If you need to store an unpeeled cucumber, then remember to put it a plastic bag. If you do not using plastic bags, you may also wrap them in paper towels.
• Do not wash it before putting it away in the refrigerator. This may cause the formation of white slimy surface and can make a cucumber rot.
• Never keep them outside the refrigerator since cucumbers are sensitive to heat.