As a semi-mindless eater, cucumber slices are one of my favorite go-to snacks while I’m studying, or bored, or both. Rather than reach for the plain ol' slices, (with salt or no salt, you decide), spice up your life with these 5 ways to use cucumbers this Summer.
1. Eye Mask
Place sliced cucumbers on your eyelids to reduce dark circles and restore tired and puffy eyes. Due to their high water content, cucumbers help hydrate your skin and maintain its elasticity. Cucumbers also build collagen, tightening the skin. If you want to get a little more crafty than just cutting up some cucumbers, here is a video for DIY eye masks.
2. Face Mask
If you are looking for a skin routine that does not break your bank, here is a recipe for a refreshing, stimulating, and pore tightening DIY cucumber face mask. Don't worry, this recipe is not one of those horrifying peel-off masks that look like they practically tear your face off.
3. Detox: Infused Water
Maybe it is just me, but I do not think there is anything better than a boujee glass of cucumber water on a sweltering day, not only to hydrate you, but to make you feel like a member of high society. I have tried many versions of infused water, but my favorite is by far lemon and cucumber infused water.
4. Retox: Sangria
Another ideal way to quench your thirst on a hot summer day is with alcohol, especially sangria. Although this recipe does not include strawberries, my go-to sangria ingredient, here is a recipe for a refreshing Cucumber Melon Sangria.
5. Thai Cucumber Salad
Another way to jazz up your cucumber snack is to make it into a salad. Here is a simple Thai Cucumber Salad Recipe that I love to make as a refreshing spicy snack.
#SpoonTip: experiment with this recipe and make it more substantial by adding things such as shredded carrots, rice noodles, or brown rice and garnish with some sesame seeds.
This Summer, stay cool as a cucumber and try these 5 unique ways to use the versatile veggie.