As you might have noticed from previous posts, in the food world, things aren’t always what they seem. For example, can you answer with total certainty the question “Are cucumbers Berries?” Read on to discover the answer!
Are Cucumbers Berries?
Yes! Cucumbers are berries. While you probably associate the word “berry”’ with raspberries or blackberries, the term berry is used for any pulpy, often edible fruit.
We talked about the differences between fruits and vegetables in a previous post, but here’s a quick refresher to remind you the two main characteristics of fruits:
- They grow from flowers
- They contain seeds
Since cucumbers meet both requirements, they are technically fruits, although most people think of them and use them as vegetables. Plus, cucumbers grow from flowers containing one ovary, which is one of the botanical requirements to classify a fruit as berry.
In addition to cucumbers, the list of products that you wouldn’t expect to see classified as berries also includes eggplants, tomatoes, and avocados.
Oh, and by the way, believe it or not, strawberries are NOT berries. The more you know, right?
Are Cucumbers Good for You?
Yes, cucumbers are good for you; like most fruits, they are a smart addition to your diet.
Cucumbers are a good source of vitamin C and vitamin K, as well as minerals such as potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese.
Here’s the breakdown of some of the nutrients you get with a 52-gram ration of raw, sliced cucumbers with peel:
- Vitamin C: 1.5 mg, 2% of DV
- Vitamin K: 8.5 mcg, 11% of DV
- Potassium: 76.4 mg, 2% of DV
- Magnesium: 6.8 mg, 2% of DV
- Phosphorus: 12.5 mg, 1% of DV
- Manganese: 0.0 mg, 2% of DV
Plus, cucumbers are naturally low in potentially harmful compounds such as saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium.
Looking for more interesting food facts? Then check out our previous blogs, “Are Bell Peppers Nightshades?” and “Plantains vs Bananas: Are They the Same?”
Chef Gourmet: We Know Good Food
If you love good food, then we have something in common! At Chef Gourmet, we use only fresh ingredients to create delicious dishes inspired by culinary traditions from around the world.
We are located in Ontario, California, with deliveries available for the Greater Los Angeles Area. Get in touch by phone (1-888-536-5269), email (info@6v2.b95.mytemp.website.com), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
