Neither cucumbers or zucchini are incredibly nutritious, but they do have a small amount of several vitamins and minerals, which can help round out a healthy diet. Its easy to make your own cucumber pickles. Cucumbers are typically longer and more cylindrical in shape, while zucchinis are shorter and have a more oval shape. Hence, this vegetable is widely used for cooking. Cucumbers internal temperature is often 20 degrees cooler than its exterior. Depending on the variety, cucumbers may have smooth or bumpy skin. Cucumbers can be a source of foodborne illness. Zucchinis are commonly used in casseroles, curries, and other recipes, where they are cooked in sauce or gravy. Although zucchini is technically a fruit, it is often prepared like a vegetable. Another factor that will help you identify whether a vegetable is a zucchini or a cucumber is the positioning of the seeds. Leaves are supported by thick, hollow stalks that are covered with stiff, prickly hairs. Home > Food Facts > Vegetables > Zucchini Vs. Cucumber: Nutrition, Appearance & Taste Compared. Zucchini plants tend to grow into bushes. 4. A cucumbers flesh always has a green tinge. Zucchinis have a tougher flesh that can be eaten raw, but is much improved by cooking until tender. However, with a single touch, Meanwhile, the flesh of cucumber has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that suits refreshing recipes like this, . Can You Substitute Cucumber for Zucchini in Recipes? According to an article in the journal Filoterapia, cucumbersprevent wrinkles and aging. The zucchini plant is also a type of gourd, but of the species cucurbita pepothe same as pumpkins and squashes. Cucumbers are almost always eaten raw, in dishes such as salads, sandwiches, or on a crudit tray with a dip and other cut, fresh vegetables. PixaHub & akepong srichaichana/Shutterstock. Zucchinis have a dry and rough exterior. Some varieties also have green stripes on them. The cucumber is a member of the gourd family and is believed to have been cultivated in India over 3000 years ago. Thus, summer is the time when you can get zucchinis cheap and fresh. Most types of zucchini plants have zucchini with a large, woody stem at one end, while cucumbers have a small stem that may or may not still be attached. Likewise, the second and subsequent sets of leaves are both heart-shaped with wavy edges. Keep in mind that you will lose the bitter flavor zucchinis bring into a dish. The zucchini is a variety of squash which originated from the Americas. Zucchini is one of the many fruits masquerading as a vegetable. They are also longer and narrower than regular cucumbers. Its plant grows abundantly around mid-summer, and its harvested when the fruit is not yet fully matured. 5 Key differences you must know Cucumber vs. Zucchini Similarities Cucumber vs. Zucchini: Pros and Cons Cucumber Pros 1. Because of zucchinis mild, almost bland, flavor, it often blends in with the other foods its prepared with. You can also add it to your chicken soup or bake it as healthy fries! To compare, a medium-sized cucumber has the same calories as one cube of sugar or half an apple. The infamous zucchini pasta is also enjoyed by people who want to eat less carbs. The taste of cucumber is a bit sweet, and it is mild to the tongue. How can two products look so much alike but generate such disparate reactions from America's taste buds? While you can choose to have them raw, they taste best when heated, boiled, or cooked in some form. Both zucchini and cucumber plants belong to the Cucurbitaceae or gourd family and when to plant zucchini seeds is the same as for cucumbers. However, cucumbers are cool and crunchy. Cooking zucchini will bring out its natural sweetness balancing the more pronounced bitter taste. Plus, the seeds of the cucumber are larger and more obvious. Both zucchini and cucumbers are low in calories. The nutritional value of cucumbers and zucchini is roughly the same. Cucumber vs Zucchini: Difference + Nutrition Comparison - VegFaqs She contributed to articles about food, gardening, and pets. In this article, find out how to tell the difference between cucumber and zucchini, and well settle the zucchini vs cucumber debate. You can also use mature zucchini to bake sweet breads and cakes. Springtime is the best season for harvesting them, which makes them available inthe summer. Meanwhile, cucumbers belong to the gourd family. If you notice the zucchini wilting, use it immediately. The exception might be fresh zucchini in a salad. Getty Images How Are Cucumbers and Zucchini Different? You may also use cucumber as a substitute for zucchini in soups and stews. But cucumbers hang from stems. The most famous sorts are slicing, pickling, and English cucumbers. $6.50. Did You Know? Zucchini doesn't even make the list. Depending on the variety, some cucumbers can have rough or smooth skin. At this stage, zucchini squash has a tender, edible core. Let's get the technical stuff out of the way first: The cucumber, cultivated in many parts of the world and eaten as a vegetable, has a cylindrical shape with dark green skin and pale flesh. Keep that in mind the next time you need to tell the difference between zucchini vs. cucumber! Although, because they are harvested prematurely, fresh zucchinis are usually less than 6 inches long. Layer a slice of pancetta, a mozzarella ball, a cherry tomato half, and basil leaf on each cucumber slice and secure them with a toothpick. Treated as a vegetable even though technically a fruit. These two veggies have very distinctive flavors and textures and are used differently in the kitchen. Both are very low in sugar (less than 3g per 100 grams) and carbs (4 grams per 100 grams) due to their high water content. Your email address will not be published. Zucchini is a type of summer squash. What is the Difference Between Cucumber and Zucchini? (Difference Cucumbers and zucchini belong to different plant families. They are usually added to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes where they are used raw. The flowers of both the cucumber and zucchini are edible. Meanwhile, cucumbers belong to the gourd family. Aside from its nutrient-dense and hydrating content, its thought to help reduce food cravings. Cucumbers may take a bush form or a vining form. Do not wash the zucchini until just before you are ready to use it. The initial flavors are followed up with a soft bitter taste that isnt overpowering. as a healthy alternative to the original version. Zucchini are squashes, and they belong to the cucurbit family. The flesh is darker when its raw. On the other hand, cucumber has flesh seedy appearance from the inside with a green tinge, and the seed are visible. However, cucumbers are very seedy. The zucchinis (on the right) grow off the stem as if they were a part of the plant. They are cut into strips or spiraled then cooked. There are some similarities: if harvested at the right time they can look a similar size; theyre also a similar shape and color. You can throw it in with other veggies, meat, or fish dishes to make a delicious and healthy mix, or deep fry some zucchini fritters to get a healthier substitute to French fries. Cucumber is an annual plant that grows on a vine. Related Reading: 15 Cucumbers that Climb While Growing. Wed often see themin salads or other recipes for low cholesterol diets. Its important to harvest zucchini at the right stage. You can also differentiate them by looking at their end; zucchinis have a woody stem, while cucumbers have a small, scarred end. If you have extra cucumbers on hand, try turning them into pickles with thisclassic dill pickle recipe. The skins can be smooth or rough. The final layer consists of zucchini slices covered with a half-cup of mozzarella and the rest of the chopped herbs. 3 The zucchini is fleshy and has a soft rind. Zucchini is also used for baking and making zucchini pasta. There are a number of key differences between zucchini and cucumber. Cucumber is used in cosmetic industry to prepare lotions, soaps, and other beauty products. The flowers are edible, and they taste delicious when dipped in batter and deep fried. Everything about a cucumber the seed, peel, and flesh is packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Its so versatile that it can be used for almost any type of cooking anything that you can think of. Theyre commonly served raw in salads, used for drinks, and made into pickles. They dont have any raised areas. Zucchini is richer in most vitamins. One bite of these perfectly fried Zucchini Straws and we guarantee that you'll be hooked. If you are on a strict diet, then youre probably familiar with zucchinis and cucumbers. Zucchinis, also known as courgettes, are virtually flavorless although there is a mild hint of earthy, bitter flavor. When cut into thin strips, it can be made into raw zucchini sushi rolls as a healthy alternative to the original version. Externally, these green, cylindrical fruits have such striking resemblances that its hard to tell them apart. Its rarely eaten by itself. We consider and cook them as veggies. The zucchini is tender and completely edible! Vertical cucumber growing is perfect if you have limited outdoor space for a garden. Read on to learn what they are, along with a few creative and delicious uses for these summer veggies. They also aid in staying hydrated, which is essential for our overall well-being. Both zucchinis and cucumbers grow on vines. Who knew? Flavor is a dead giveaway for distinguishing zucchinis and cucumbers, but you can tell the difference in the interior flesh without taking a single bite. While zucchini can be eaten raw, it is usually cooked, which brings out the sweet, mild flavor of the vegetable. Cucumber is best eaten raw, while zucchini is best eaten when cooked. Now you know the difference between zucchini vs. cucumber, make both a part of your diet to reap their benefits and stay healthy. Both sides of the cucumbers look the same. Read our. On the other hand, Zucchini belongs to the family Cucurbita (Cucurbita Pepo). At first glance, cucumbers and zucchinis bear a striking resemblance, particularly if zucchinis are picked when small and closer in size to cucumbers. The raw cucumber has soft, juicy flesh encased in a crispy skin; the seeds are usually larger than the zucchinis although they are fine to eat. Some cucumbers are oval, short, and round in shape. Cucumbers and zucchini belong to different plant families. Zucchini tastes best when cooked. Ensure that they are washed in running water and scrubbed to remove the dirt and residue. Zucchini seeds contain phytonutrients that help fight against inflammation and oxidative stress. Summary Zucchini vs Cucumber The difference between Zucchini and Cucumber is that zucchini cannot be consumed without cooking, and the skin should be peeled properly before you start cooking. Ready to continue discovering these funky fresh vegetables? Hails from the gourd family. The most straightforward way to tell the difference between cucumber and zucchini is by feeling them. Zucchini feel more supple and slightly rough and are covered with tiny, prickly trichomes or plant hairs. Still, dont regret that mistaken zucchini stash just yet. So, there you have it. Zucchinis are harvested with the stem while cucumbers arent. Thats right! Zucchini vs. Cucumber: What's the Difference? - Minneopa Orchards Nutrition Facts and Benefits of Corn, Apricot: Nutrition Facts, Health Benefits, and Recipe, 12 Filling Foods That Are Also Good for You, Flat Tummy Water: Benefits, Side Effects & Nutrition Facts, Plantain vs. Banana: Difference in Nutrition and Health Benefits, Is it Wise to Drink Lemon Water before Bed? Zucchini and cucumber vary in many ways. Zucchinis are bland, so kids can get their share of healthy goodness without even noticing. Mix it in your raw vegetable salads, with tomatoes and avocados. Useful Tips To Make Your Everyday Life Just A Bit Better. Some types of cucumbers have smooth skin, while some types of zucchini have yellow, orange, or mottled skin. Cucumbers were first reported to be growing in India and China. It may or may not have a yellow flower on the other side. Zucchini, like cucumbers, contain about 95% water, fiber, and a trace amount of vitamins like B6, C, and K. How to Select and Store Zucchini. Place your cucumber slices in a colander and lightly salt them. https://www.foodsforbetterhealth.com/zucchini-vs-cucumber-35357, Zucchini Vs. Cucumber: Nutrition, Appearance & Taste Compared, https://www.foodsforbetterhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Zucchini-VS.-Cucumber-150x100.png. The fat content is almost negligible and amounts to 0.1 grams. Long and green. More About Me, COPYRIGHT 2020 The Daring Kitchen, All Rights Reserved. Prefer to watch rather than read? The most notable differences are how they taste and how they're prepared because zucchini has a sweeter taste, while cucumber is more watery and bitter. Read on to learn everything regarding this topic. Cucumbers are more watery than zucchini. Theyre delightful baked or sauted. Nonetheless, we still eat cucumbers and zucchinis with salad greens, and not with fruit salads. Many describe the taste as cool and refreshing, mainly because of their high water content and other chemical compounds that are present. Contents hide 1 What are Other Differences Between Cucumber and Zucchini? They are 95% water and dont contain more than 2% of any vitamins or minerals. Nevertheless, it will still be greener than a zucchini. Overall, theyre both healthy fruits that will make a great addition to many different dishes! Their seeds are more prominent and typically run down the middle of the fruit. Once a thick syrup forms, remove the saucepan from the flame and set it aside. Also, zucchini becomes more sweet as you heat or cook it. Use more or fewer onions according to your taste. Slice some pickling cucumbers and onions. Theyre warm-season crops that grow best in an area that gets full sun and has moist, nutrient-rich soil. How about some low-carbzoodles? Cucumbers are sensitive to temperatures below 50F and should be stored at room temperature not in the refrigerator. Zucchini has a heartier taste and a mild, sweet flavor. There isnt much difference in cucumber and zucchinis caloric value. Zucchini contains 6.4 times more vitamin C, four times more vitamins E and B6, 3.4 times more folate or vitamin B9, almost three times more vitamin B3. The differences between zucchini and cucumber plants become more apparent as the plants mature. Unrefrigerated, zucchinis can last from 2 to 4 days in a well-ventilated room. Similarities and differences. You will see a clear line of seeds running along the center in a cross-section. Thenlearn more about cucumbersby checking out my planting guides, recipe tips, brand suggestions, and more! Cucumbers have cylindrical shapes and are round in shape, with a dark green color. However, the flowers of cucumbers are inedible. Odette is a content writer and proofreader by day, and living her inner artist as a poet and singer by night. May improve digestion 5. Similar to the eggplant, its spongy texture has a tendency to absorb oil and other liquids it's in so using dry cooking methods for the zucchini is best. While both are gourds, MasterClass explains that the zucchini plant, unlike the cucumber, is part of thecucurbita pepofamily, like pumpkins and squashes. Lastly, zucchini flowers are edible, and there are many ways to cook them in a dish. Like zucchini, cucumber also belongs to the squash and melon family called cucurbitae. The Main Difference Between Zucchini and Cucumbers - Wide Open Eats When eaten raw, cucumbers taste crunchy, juicy, and cool. Even when simply cooked with butter, the zucchini will soak up this flavor making a potentially delicious side dish. Other members of this family include pumpkins and summer squashes. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Small varieties of cucumber are pickled while zucchini can be stir-fried, roasted, steamed, or used to prepare soups. Zucchini, however, can live in your fridge's crisper drawer for up to four or five days, providing that you don't wash it until you're ready to use it. While they look similar, they have different characteristics and uses. Once its more mature, zucchini becomes more astringent, and the rind begins to harden. Their small white seeds are usually visible in the center of the fruit. Botanically speaking though, zucchini is a fruit because it has seeds and grows from them. We may know cucumbers as a great salad topping, but they work great as a standalone dish too. Start by cutting through the zucchini and cucumber. There's no contest between zucchini vs. cucumber in terms of nutritional value. As soon as the balsamic vinegar reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Zucchini flesh is usually a creamy white color and has a spongy, somewhat dry consistency. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Join UsSign up for all the latest garden and orchard tips! Zucchini is often cooked and used in various recipes, while cucumber is typically eaten raw or pickled. Remove the pan from the heat and toss in the scallion, sesame oil, and sesame seeds. Other ones that you may be familiar with are Armenian, Gherkin, and Kirby cucumbers. But this doesnt mean there arent plenty of ways to prepare them! All rights reserved. What Is The Difference Between A Cucumber And A Zucchini? Both are very low in sugar (less than 3g per 100 grams) and carbs (4 grams per 100 grams) due to their high water content. They are both gourds with dark green colors, pale flesh, and a cylindrical shape. Whats the difference between cucumber and zucchini? You can saut it to make an excellent side dish. Cucumbers have bumpier and generally smaller skins, whereas zucchinis have more smooth skins that can grow larger. Zucchini is generally used for cooking. The first aspect in the zucchini vs. cucumber weigh-in is this: Are they fruits, or are they vegetables? Is Cucumber a Good Substitute for Zucchini? Some varieties of cucumbers and zucchini look very similar. Nonetheless, all cucumbers are gourds, while zucchini are squashes. Zucchini will stay fresh for four or five days if you store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator crisper drawer. There are other differences between cucumber and zucchini. Folate, or vitamin B9, assists red blood cell formation and robust cell growth. However, zucchinis and cucumbers have more differences than you may think. Both are juicy vegetables with high moisture content. Zucchini also softens when cooked and will take on a slightly sweet taste as well as absorbing the flavors of other dominant ingredients it is cooked with. Posted on Last updated: February 10, 2023. Both are technically fruits, but most people group them with vegetables because theyre often prepared in savory dishes. They contain less amount of Vitamin A and C than zucchini. What's the Difference Between Cucumbers and Zucchini? Although they have a lot in common, zucchinis and cucumbers are somewhat different foods. Yes, but not much. The main difference between zucchini and cucumber is their texture; zucchinis have a smoother texture and are warmer to the touch, while cucumbers have a bumpier texture and are cold to the touch. Feel free to adjust the recipes measurements for your desired quantity. Another way to use cucumber is in cucumber water which is widely used as a detox drink. Your email address will not be published. Zucchinis vs. cucumber: there are several differences between them. As a cucumber matures on the vine the seeds grow larger. There are also stuffed zucchini flower recipes you can try using meat, cheese, and other vegetables as stuffing. Then serve with your grilled meat or other dishes whenever you like. Although the difference in appearance is sometimes subtle, there are several ways to tell zucchini vs. cucumber apart. At this stage, it is easy to tell them apart. Zucchinis need to be cooked. Tastewise, cucumbers have a fresh taste and are juicy due to high water content. You can also infuse a pitcher of water with sliced cucumber for a cool, summertime beverage. She likes how sharing a tiny bit of her life and her journey can help others in return. A zucchini feels soft to cut and has a dry, soft, and spongy flesh. In both cucumbers and zucchinis, the main edible part is the fruit. 5 Differences Between Zucchini and Cucumber | Organic Facts You can only use cucumber if the recipe calls for raw zucchini. They are about as different as Croatian cucumber salad and zucchini bread muffins. Zucchini vs Cucumber Also know the Differences - Healthy Life Human To eat them though, you have to peel them first to remove the prickly hairs. The bottom line. They're both long and green with whitish innards, they both hang out in your supermarket's produce section, andMasterClass reveals that they are both gourds. These foods feel different when youre eating them, too. Zucchini vs Cucumber: Differences Explained! Zucchini and cucumber are quite similar in a lot of aspects as they are both members of the gourd family. On the outside, zucchini has a grainy appearance, whereas the exterior of a cucumber looks more waxy and shiny. Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container and consume them within a week. Advertisement Strictly speaking about taste, cucumbers are fresh, mild in flavor, and sweet due to their high water content. These are usually smaller than those produced by zucchini plants. Since they rest on the dirt, they tend to emanate that aroma. Use them to make fritters; stuff them with a mixture of ground beef, onions and chili; in salads or simply as a garnish. } However, zucchinis and cucumbers have more differences than you may think. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about zucchini vs. cucumber. Know just by touching it: When you touch a cucumber, it is relatively softer as compared to a zucchini. The seeds of a cucumber are narrow, long, and smooth. http://www.livescience.com/51000-cucumber-nutrition.html, http://www.livestrong.com/article/528126-nutritional-facts-for-raw-zucchini-vs-cooked-zucchini/, Miso: Nutrition Facts, Health Benefits, and Recipe, The Candida Diet: What to Eat & How It May Work, Is Corn Healthy? Are Zucchini And Cucumber Interchangeable? - Sweetish Hill Stir well, then remove the pan from the heat. The seeds and peels of cucumbers contain beta-carotene and fiber. Zucchini Vs Cucumber - What's The Difference? - Tastylicious Additionally, the skin has a more earthy flavor than the flesh, and this contributes to the gourds overall flavor profile, too. This type is usually coated in a layer of wax to prevent bruising and loss of moisture, so be sure to either scrub or peel before eating. Also present in zucchini and cucumber are minerals like calcium, magnesium, manganese, and potassium. Greenhouse Cucumber Production--Florida Greenhouse Vegetable Production Handbook, Vol. Try these tasty Cucumber Caprese Bites for a creative cucumber side dish. While both cucumber and zucchini are low calorie foods, zucchini is sometimes used as a substitute in desserts variations, such as zucchini banana bread and zucchini brownies. Food Lab The Difference Between Zucchini And Cucumber Updated on February 13, 2022 Cucumbers and zucchinis are green gourds, and they're both technically fruitsalbeit we consume them as vegetables. Now you have a supply to last you until the next harvest season! Even better, this showswhy zucchinis and cucumbers should be your top picks if youre looking to lose weight effectively or simply looking to eat clean. The flowers of zucchini are a delicacy. Cucumber seeds are narrow, long and smooth, while zucchini seeds are short, wide, and have a small ridge around the perimeter. Yes, but not much. And, both are long and cylindrical in shape. Cucumbers are available in grocery stores all year round, but its peak season is in the summer, and thats the time when it tastes great, when you can notice the hint of its sweetness. If you're interested in learning more about cucumber preparation then check out our beginners cutting technique video here. Zsalay, J., Cucumbers: Health Benefits & Nutrition Facts, Live Science, March 12, 2017;http://www.livescience.com/51000-cucumber-nutrition.html. We share useful tips and guides on everything about kitchen appliances, utensils, and cooking. In this case, the vegetables look like they are growing out of the stems. Difference Between Zucchini and Cucumber Zucchini is mostly white, while cucumber is light green with a few crunchy seeds. A Savory Stroll Under the Neon Lights of Singapore Once you slice them open, the contrast is even more apparent. With its bland taste, zucchini, much like yellow squash, can complement most vegetables when cooking. Zucchini will never overpower a dish, instead taking on the role of reliable sidekick. Long story short, both are extremely healthy. Sprinkle a half-cup of the mozzarella over the top along with a pinch of your chopped herbs. When comparing zucchini vs cucumber, youd notice that both fruits have a long cylindrical shape and green skin at first glance. Combine the ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper in a medium-sized mixing bowl. The same serving of unpeeled and sliced zucchini contains 19 calories.Nutrition and Taste Compared. Lets look more closely at zucchini vs. cucumber. Fresh Spinach vs. Anushree R. leads a team of enthusiast cooks who are crazy about cooking and all things kitchen. Zucchini are squashes, and they belong to the cucurbit family. They belong to the same group as watermelons and snake gourds. Even bush-type cucumber plants tend to spread vines along the ground, while some cucumber vines grow over 12 feet long and require a trellis. In fact, it reproduces from the flowering part of a zucchini plant. Zucchini (also called courgette and baby marrow) is a type of vining herbaceous summer squash from the Cucurbitaceae or Cucurbits family along with cucumber, gourd, squash, melons, and pumpkins. On the other hand, zucchinis have a heartier flavor and may even tend to be slightly bitter. What's the Difference between Cucumber and Zucchini? Cucumber leaves are four to five inches in diameter while zucchini leaves are 12 inches or more. 8 Simple Tips to Store Cut Cucumber Properly. Affiliate Disclaimer: Tipsbulletin.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, How to Tell the Difference between Cucumber and Zucchini, Taste Difference between Cucumber and Zucchini. They are also called courgettes in some places. Cucumbers also have phytonutrients such as flavonoids, lignans, and triterpenes. Zucchini flowers (also known as zucchini blossoms) are edible and delicious! Few recipes call for them to be cooked as they soften and lose their biggest strength crispness. Can You Substitute Zucchini for Cucumber in Salad There are, (12 without its skin). Just dont let them grow any larger than nine inches. Cucumbers are moist inside, with firm flesh. Sometimes, they are called gherkins in stores. Zucchini and cucumber both contain some other essential vitamins and minerals such as manganese, riboflavin, potassium, folate, and vitamin K. Potassium reduces the risk of strokes and is a natural way to lower the blood pressure.
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