When you take a closer look at all the in-season fruits and vegetables currently found at The Shed you’ll notice a common element: Broccoli: 92% water; Cantaloupe: 90% water; Kale: 90% water; Lettuce – Iceberg: 96% water;  Lettuce – Romaine: 94% water; Okra: 93% water; Spinach 91% water; Strawberries: 92% water; Tomatoes: 95% water; Watermelon: 92% water; Zucchini: 94% water (UT Southwestern Medical Center).

It’s almost like nature knows exactly what we need and when we need it.

While all of the above options are excellent and easy ways to help fulfill your daily fluid intake requirements during our Texas heat, the star of this hydrating show is the cool cucumber, coming in at an awesome 96% water.

Though commonly categorized as a vegetable, the cucumber is actually a fruit (hello, tomato) that is high in beneficial nutrients, as well as certain plant compounds and antioxidants, including flavonoids and tannins. These compounds help prevent the accumulation of harmful free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Cucumber skin is rich in beta-carotene, giving it its vibrant green color. Beta-carotene is part of a group of pigments known as provitamins, which your body can convert into Vitamin A, playing a crucial role in maintaining healthy eyes and skin.

Enjoy your cucumbers with a little sprinkle of salt, throw a few slices in your water and salad, add a bit of crunch to your sandwich, toss them in your smoothies, and find inspirational recipes from the DFM here.

One large (roughly 300 grams) unpeeled, raw cucumber contains approximately:

  • Calories: 45
  • Total fat: 0 grams
  • Carbs: 11 grams
  • Protein: 2 grams
  • Fiber: 2 grams
  • Vitamin C: 14% of Recommended Daily Intake (RDI)
  • Vitamin K: 62% RDI
  • Magnesium: 10% RDI
  • Potassium: 13% RDI
  • Manganese: 12% RDI

Now that you know how beneficial they are, head to The Shed this weekend and grab all things cucumber!

  • Pickling Cucumbers: available from Heddin Family Farms, Kelley Produce, and Williams Garden
  • Slicing Cucumbers: available from Heddin Family Farms, Kelley Produce, and Williams Garden
  • Cucumber Agua Fresca: available from Cheros Latin Kitchen, Pika Fruta
  • Cucumber Dog Bandanas: available from Lula Pup Shop
  • Cucumber Fruit Bowl: available from Pika Fruta
  • Cucumber Margaritas, Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca, Cucumber Shots: available from La Ventana Taqueria
  • Cucumber Sushi Rolls: available from Ginzaro Sushi
  • Dilly Cucumbers: available from K-Mama
  • Pickles (Bread-n-Butter, Dill, Spicy): available from T-Rex Pickles
  • Tzatziki: available from Brothers Products

Join us as we celebrate summer’s crunchiest crop with a weekend full of summer fun at the Dallas Farmers Market. Bring the whole family to enjoy sweet cucumber activities, tasty bites, and live music that’ll keep you groovin’ through the weekend.