Cool as a Cucumber: 10 Recipes to Beat the Heat (Pt 1)

May 30, 2011

Cucumber

On a hot day, sometimes there's nothing better than a cool, refreshing cucumber salad. In my mind, cucumbers are summer's secret weapon to stay cool on even the hottest days! And stay tuned for future articles on the coolness of cucumbers!

Start With The Basics
Pickles: A Primer
 With excellent step-by-step instructions, homemade pickles go from out-of-your-league to chillin-in-the-fridge.

Tzatziki - Greek Cucumber & Yogurt Sauce
Right after pickles, this is quintessential cucumber recipe!

Raita
This traditional side is tzatziki's Indian cousin with cilantro, spicy peppers and fresh tomatoes - yum.

Cucumber Tea Sandwiches with Minted Cream Cheese
Cool and refreshing, these easy crustless canapes are a classic.

Simple Soups and Salads

Greek Salad in Bell Pepper Bowls
Crunchy cukes, salty Feta cheese, kalamata olives and tzatziki served up in a bright bell pepper - edible eatery at its most sustainable.

Chilled Cucumber, Lemon and Fresh Pea Soup
Like a gazpacho verde, this soup is the best remedy for a hot summer's day.

Marinated Cucumber Salad
Quick and easy, a great throw-together choice for a surprise picnic!

Cucumber Zucchini Carpaccio
Thinly sliced and simply dressed, this gorgeous salad is finished with mint, dill and walnuts.

Cucumber Ribbon Salad
With dill, white wine vinegar and a hint of honey, this salad looks way more difficult than it actually is - an impressive BBQ presentation!

Cucumber and Roasted Beet Salad with Cumin Dressing
Cold, bold and insanely delicious.

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