You will see a clear line of seeds running along the center in a cross-section. They lose their flavor when left on the plant for too long. You can eat them raw when they are still green. Many think zucchini is a vegetable because we treat it as one. Cucumbers belong to the gourd family Cucurbitaceae (Cucumis Sativus). Zucchini are squashes, and they belong to the cucurbit family. Zucchini has a smoother surface than cucumber. 5 Secondly, they differ in plant families 6 Thirdly, they differ in appearance, including colors 7 Some use raw zucchini as a 7.1 Related Posts: Most Cucurbita varieties grow like small bushes, but there are also a few vining types like Raven and Thunderbird. Lastly, zucchini flowers are edible, and there are many ways to cook them in a dish. The first two leaves of zucchini and cucumber seedlings are oval and virtually indistinguishable. Even with these similarities, they are actually very different and each has its own use in the kitchen. But if youve ever tried cooking with these gourds, youd realize that it is not easy to tell them apart. Cost per serving. - AllDifferences Food What's the Difference between Cucumber and Zucchini? Some types of cucumber will feel a little bumpy, cool, and waxy when you run your hands through them. They are 95% water. The flesh is darker when its raw. What are Other Differences Between Cucumber and Zucchini? You will alsolessen food waste,while being economical. Meanwhile, zucchini has a milder, almost bland taste, with a slightly bitter tang. Cucumbers are famous for their cool, sweet crunch thanks to their crispy outer skin and juicy interior. To eat them though, you have to peel them first to remove the prickly hairs. You can also cook them to enhance the flavors of other foods. They have several varieties of zucchini (including striped and yellow) and more than 20 cucumber varieties in different shapes and sizes. Related Reading: 15 Cucumbers that Climb While Growing. Pull out your spiralizer and turn it into another exciting culinary creation. Zucchini is relatively soft, while cucumber is crisper and even a bit crunchy. The zucchini is tender and completely edible! They are smaller and blends in the flesh. They contain less amount of Vitamin A and C than zucchini. Know just by touching it: When you touch a cucumber, it is relatively softer as compared to a zucchini. A cucumber is generally softer than a zucchini. The young tender squash sometimes gets added raw to fresh salads. If you insist on keeping your cukes in the refrigerator, limit it to no more than three days and eat them as soon as possible. Cucumbers have a slight green tinge and juicy flesh with high water content. Although they have a lot in common, zucchinis and cucumbers are somewhat different foods. Zucchini are squashes, and they belong to the cucurbit family. For one thing, MasterClass explains that the zucchini has a thick, wood stem on one end, while the cucumber does not. Mature cucumbers are less tasty and may have a bitter taste. A zucchini feels soft to cut and has a dry, soft, and spongy flesh. The next time you see these fruits in your local market, pick both, and enjoy the unique benefits they give. While cucumbers and zucchini resemble each other on the outside, they look entirely different on the inside. Hence, this vegetable is widely used for cooking. The skin contains the most antioxidants and so shouldnt be discarded. 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. Try substituting your usual carb-loaded dish with healthy zucchini noodles. Its a traditional Korean side dish that only takes 15 minutes to whip up. The last key difference between zucchini and cucumber is found in their plants and how they grow. Zucchini flowers are edible, while cucumber flowers are not. A cucumber has a thicker skin and a white colored crisp, juicy inside. How can two products look so much alike but generate such disparate reactions from America's taste buds? Cucumber is also popular to have fermented, pickled, or canned. They belong to different plant families. 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. However, these plants reached the United States in the 1900s. All rights reserved. Externally, these green, cylindrical fruits have such striking resemblances that its hard to tell them apart. You can also bake zucchini in sweet treats, such as quick breads and cakes. You may use apple cider vinegar, malt vinegar, and even rice wine. Cucumber is long and cylindrical, with bumpy dark green skin (and sometimes faint green striping). Nutrient-dense 2. The English cucumber has a cold, smooth surface without bumps, unlike pickled ones like Gerkhin and Kirby cucumbers which are rough. She likes how sharing a tiny bit of her life and her journey can help others in return. Popular cucumber varieties include English cucumbers, which typically come wrapped in plastic at the grocery store; the stout, bumpy skinned Kirbys which are great for pickling; the even smaller Gherkins which are most commonly pickled and served on a relish tray or skewered and served in a Bloody Mary; and the Garden cucumber, the standard grocery store variety. Mix it in your raw vegetable salads, with tomatoes and avocados. Some types of cucumbers have smooth skin, while some types of zucchini have yellow, orange, or mottled skin. Spread the reserved pasta sauce evenly over the bottom of a large baking dish. Other ones that you may be familiar with are Armenian, Gherkin, and Kirby cucumbers. They have a distinct bite and are refreshingly cool. Both plants have big leaves that resemble hearts, but the cucumbers (pictured left) dangle from their plant. If you want to get creative, try ano-noodle zucchini lasagnaor asweet zucchini bread. 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. They grow a flower, have seeds, and have fleshy insides. However, with a single touch, Meanwhile, the flesh of cucumber has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that suits refreshing recipes like this, . Set several zucchini slices in the dish, either overlapping or side-by-side, depending on your preference. The taste of zucchini is usually mild and ranges from slightly sweet to a little bitter, depending on how long it stays on the plant. Meanwhile, cucumbers belong to the gourd family. Most are green, but there are yellow zucchini varieties, too. Cooking zucchini will bring out its sweetness, while pickling will take away its bitter flavor. Peel cucumber, and cut into large chunks. The texture of raw zucchini isnt pleasant unless sliced very thinly. Repeat the lasagna layers a second time. Cucumber can be eaten raw or cooked. You can also infuse a pitcher of water with sliced cucumber for a cool, summertime beverage. Zucchini has a pale yellow or white-colored flesh, with small seeds that blend in. Both veggies are low in carbohydrates, calories, and cholesterol because of their high water content. Ready to continue discovering these funky fresh vegetables? What Is The Difference Between Field Corn And Sweet Corn? Zucchinis (Cucurbita pepo) and cucumbers (Cucumis sativus) are both members of the Cucurbit family, so it's no wonder people confuse these two long, slender green vegetables. Advertisement Strictly speaking about taste, cucumbers are fresh, mild in flavor, and sweet due to their high water content. Geylang Road is in Singapore's red light district. When placed side by side, sometimes it is hard to tell them apart. Meal kit vs. grocery store. Contents hide 1 What are Other Differences Between Cucumber and Zucchini? You can eat them raw. EveryPlate (meals for 2) EveryPlate (meals for 4) Groceries bought at the store. They belong to the same group as watermelons and snake gourds. When eating cucumbers or zucchini raw, . Here's how to tell the difference between the green genies. Cucumbers and zucchinis have a lot in common at first glance, which probably made you ask this question. 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. No spam! She contributed to articles about food, gardening, and pets. The peels contain good amounts of fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Tastewise, cucumbers have a fresh taste and are juicy due to high water content. Mostly it smells earthy. Zucchini, like cucumbers, contain about 95% water, fiber, and a traceamount of vitaminslike B6, C, and K. Zucchini thrives in warmer regions and is best planted in the spring or fall, to become available in summer. However, the creamy flesh of zucchini absorbs flavors well. $6.50. Although the difference in appearance is sometimes subtle, there are several ways to tell zucchini vs. cucumber apart. They are about as different as Croatian cucumber salad and zucchini bread muffins. 5 Key differences you must know Cucumber vs. Zucchini Similarities Cucumber vs. Zucchini: Pros and Cons Cucumber Pros 1. Taste In terms of taste, raw zucchini is slightly bitter, but it takes on a sweet flavor when it is cooked. The fat content is almost negligible and amounts to 0.1 grams. Zucchini is a type of summer squash. This where much of the nutritional content is found; the skin also adds color and texture to the dish. And they are both fruits. This refreshing fruit complements drinks like lemonades. While zucchini can be eaten raw, it is usually cooked, which brings out the sweet, mild flavor of the vegetable. It has a similar consistency and a relatively neutral flavor that absorbs the aroma of the rest of the dish. The first aspect in the zucchini vs. cucumber weigh-in is this: Are they fruits, or are they vegetables? Meanwhile, cucumbers have dark green skin and green stripes. However, with a single touch, youd be able to tell the difference instantly from the texture of their skin. Required fields are marked *. Zucchini is a popular ingredient for ratatouille. English Cucumber: Everything You Need to Know. Meanwhile, zucchinis may be solid green or with yellowish or light green stripes. Some varieties are ideal for pickling, but cucumbers are rarely cooked, except in some Asian stir-fries. These flowers are edible. Since they rest on the dirt, they tend to emanate that aroma. While they look similar, they are from very different plant species. Cucumbers may feel a little bumpy to touch while zucchinis are typically smoother. Zucchini and cucumber are both low in fat and calories, making them healthy options for eating and cooking. Jillian is a freelance writer, editor and fact-checker with 10 years of editorial experience in the lifestyle genre. Zsalay, J., Cucumbers: Health Benefits & Nutrition Facts, Live Science, March 12, 2017; Rainey, A., The Nutritional Values of Zucchinis & Cucumbers, Livestrong, September 17, 2011; Young, J., Nutritional Facts of Raw Zucchini Vs. Cooked Zucchini, Livestrong,September 23, 2015; FoodsForBetterHealth. Zucchini is also used for baking and making zucchini pasta. Zucchinis have a tougher flesh that can be eaten raw, but is much improved by cooking until tender. Stir fry for about one minute, taking care not to overcook them. When it comes to taste, cucumbers are so juicy and crispy that you can even eat them raw. Check out this video Cucumbers are a crisp, juicy vegetable that can be eaten raw, skin and all. All rights reserved. Golden zucchinis are deep yellow or sometimes orange. 0.0. Theyre both types of gourds that are part of the cucurbit family, which also includes watermelons, pumpkins, and cantaloupes. Once you open them, you will also discover that zucchini have drier flesh and tiny seeds compared to the juicy flesh and larger seeds you get with cucumbers. Both cucumbers and zucchini are members of the gourd family, whereas zucchini is a member of the Cucurbita family. Even better, this shows. The interior color is mostly white for both vegetables, but cucumbers have a slight tint of green. Both are juicy vegetables with high moisture content. Antioxidants like beta-carotene, vitamin C, and lutein play a critical role in combating oxidative stress from the accumulation of harmful free radicals in the body. We may know cucumbers as a great salad topping, but they work great as a standalone dish too. Cucumbers were first reported to be growing in India and China. They have different appearances, especially on the inside, they grow differently, and they have different nutritional qualities. Versus Versus Zucchini Vs Cucumber - What's The Difference? They are usually added to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes where they are used raw. On the other hand, cucumber provides less than five percent of the RDA of vitamin C. Vitamin C helps lower blood pressure and provides protection against inflammation and clogged arteries. Zucchini is slightly sweet and a bit bitter. 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. Press or squeeze them to extract the remaining moisture. Like zucchini, cucumber also belongs to the squash and melon family called cucurbitae. Some varieties also have green stripes on them. But, of course, they have glaring differences. If youre looking to grow one of these plants yourself, consider these seeds sold by one of our favorite seed retailers, Hoss Tools. The name zucchini also has an Italian link. Both vegetables have a high moisture content. 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. Its one of the best vegetables that works with a spiralizer. Bake your zucchini lasagna for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown. Cucumbers hang off their vines just like grapes hang off. Anushree R. leads a team of enthusiast cooks who are crazy about cooking and all things kitchen. Cucumbers and zucchini seem similar when viewed from a distance, but you'll find a few pronounced distinctions up close. The biggest external difference is the skin. When present, the fruit is usually harvested with the flower and sold together. These are usually smaller than those produced by zucchini plants. Other members of this family include pumpkins and summer squashes. Fresh cucumbers are crisp, cool, and juicy. Thus, summer is the time when you can get zucchinis cheap and fresh. 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. The Best Sides For Burgers To Serve At Your Next Cookout, 70 Easy Summer Salad Recipes For Hot Days, Greenhouse Cucumber Production--Florida Greenhouse Vegetable Production Handbook, Vol. It contains 1.4 grams of proteins, 0.4 grams of fats, and one gram of dietary fiber. Zucchini doesn't even make the list. When cut into thin strips, it can be made into raw zucchini sushi rolls as a healthy alternative to the original version. Slicing cucumbers like Dasher, Slicemaster, and Comet are thick-skinned. In addition, the skin of the zucchini plant has fewer bumps on it compared to the skin of the cucumber plants. All of these distinctions are explained in more detail below. Receive the latest Home & Garden Tips by entering your email below: We respect your privacy and take protecting it very seriously. Then serve with your grilled meat or other dishes whenever you like. Plus, the seeds of the cucumber are larger and more obvious. Feel the two in your hand and you'll notice cucumbers have a waxy skin, while zucchini skins are dull. They also aid in staying hydrated, which is essential for our overall well-being. You can only use cucumber if the recipe calls for raw zucchini. Lets take a closer look at them to understand the differences between them. Zucchini also mixes well with other roasted, baked, sauted, stir-fried, or steamed vegetables. Meanwhile, cucumbers have a smooth rounded appearance on both sides. While it's more obvious when you're harvesting the annual vegetables, the young plants look similar to the untrained eye. The seed sometimes remains attached to the leaflets when the seedlings pop through the ground. The most notable differences are how they taste and how theyre prepared because zucchini has a sweeter taste, while cucumber is more watery and bitter. Medium-sized cucumbers are almost 97 percent water. Cucumber contains 3.8 times more vitamin K. 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? Use 2 parts water and 1 part vinegar. Planting zucchini seeds is just as easy as using seedlings. Cucumbers are a rich source of fiber and roughage. Due to its high water content, the flesh is also juicy which makes a thirst-quenching cucumber lemonade or a garnish for drinks and, When cut into thin strips, it can be made into. While they look similar, they have different characteristics and uses. Zucchini is classified as a vegetable and cucumber is classified as both a fruit and a vegetable. At a stretch you could argue that they both have very mild, almost bland flavor profiles. With both of these vegetables it is usually best to keep the skin on. Once a thick syrup forms, remove the saucepan from the flame and set it aside. Zucchinis have a light green to very dark greencolor. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. The biggest difference between zucchini and cucumber is their taste. On the other hand, Zucchini belongs to the family Cucurbita (Cucurbita Pepo). Or make it more sour as you wish. Serve these crispy baked zucchini fries to kick off a meal or as part of an appetizer spread, or saute them for a quick, healthy side dish. Cucumber and zucchini are alike in many ways. Zucchini vs Cucumber: Differences Explained! When the weather gets warm, the plants begin to sprout abundantly. You can also add it to your chicken soup or bake it as healthy fries! Upon closer inspection, though, youll find that zucchini squash is mostly cylindrical from end to end. Zucchini has more Vitamin A (10.0), Vitamin C (17.9), and dietary fiber (0.5) than cucumbers. Cucumbers and zucchini belong to different plant families. 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. Fresh cucumbers are crisp, cool, and juicy. Heat a large frying pan on high. The first is by looking at the shape. Cucumbers have a waxy and bumpy exterior and feel cold to touch. Yes, they share both a common hue and shape, but there are a few obvious differences between the look of a cucumber (pictured on the left) and a zucchini (on the right). A study published in thePakistan Journal of Nutritionstates that cucumber seeds are a good source of minerals, and also contain calcium. Its rarely eaten by itself. Its plant grows abundantly around mid-summer, and its harvested when the fruit is not yet fully matured. 0.0. Nonetheless, we still eat cucumbers and zucchinis with salad greens, and not with fruit salads. Meanwhile, the flesh of cucumber has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that suits refreshing recipes like this cucumber corn black bean salad. Additionally, even green zucchinis can vary in their appearance on the outside. Its extremely versatile and can be steamed, grilled, roasted, and fried, just to name a few popular options. Technically speaking, though, both cucumber plants, and zucchini plants as well, are classified as bearingfruits! These two plants are frequently confused with each other, especially when they are placed side by side in the vegetable bins at the grocery store, but they both have distinctive characteristics and uses. Cucumbers and zucchini seem similar when viewed from a distance, but youll find a few pronounced distinctions up close. The shape of the leaves of both plants is heart-shaped. Add cucumber and salt, and cook, tossing occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes. Towards the center the flesh becomes soft and there are larger seeds. Zucchinis have woody stems at the end while cucumbers have small circular scars. No, you cant really substitute cucumber for zucchini. Fifthly, Zucchini comes out from the plant stems. You will find that the surface of a zucchini is grainy. They're cucumber and zucchini, two plants that are frequently confused for each other but that each have a character all of their own, with uses ranging from raita to pickles and cake to courgetti. Their seeds are more prominent and typically run down the middle of the fruit. They are also longer and narrower than regular cucumbers. They are also called courgettes in some places. The initial flavors are followed up with a soft bitter taste that isnt overpowering. Use them together, though, and you can create very delectable culinary creations. They are types of berries. Cucumbers and zucchini have markedly distinct flavor profiles. Your email address will not be published. Cooking zucchini will bring out its natural sweetness balancing the more pronounced bitter taste. Southern Living is committed to using high-quality, reputable sources to support the facts in our articles. Cucumbers are also used to make pickles and relish. Spoon University describes a cucumber as "crisp and juicy" and zucchini as "heartier" and slightly bitter. There are, (12 without its skin). Generally, zucchinis grow up to 8 inches long. Both vegetables have creamy white flesh. To compare, a medium-sized cucumber has the same calories as one cube of sugar or half an apple. These two veggies have very distinctive flavors and textures and are used differently in the kitchen. Well, this does happen sometimes. Secondly, they differ in plant families. Instead of perfectly smooth skin as you would find on zucchini, cucumbers are covered in tiny nubs that can even prick you before you gently rub them off with your thumbs. You certainly couldnt substitute one for the other, like you might consider doing with hoisin and oyster sauce or camembert and brie. At this stage, it is easy to tell them apart. Both zucchinis and cucumbers grow on vines. 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. We should mention that a zucchini with its flowers attached means its fresh, young, and sweeter in flavor. Cucumber leaves and seeds are larger than others in the whole family, while pumpkin leaves and seeds are smaller. 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. There are differences in their cross-section. There are over 100 varieties of cucumbers. Cucumber and zucchini are both consumed raw and have different . Immediately, you'll notice the softness of the zucchini as your knife glides through the flesh when compared to the "snap" in the crunchy cucumber. Read on as we put the longstanding debate between. There are also stuffed zucchini flower recipes you can try using meat, cheese, and other vegetables as stuffing. To compare, a medium-sized cucumber has the same calories as one cube of sugar or half an apple. After a few seconds, incorporate the cucumbers. They also grow differently. There are a number of key differences between zucchini and cucumber. What's the difference between a cucumber and a zucchini? Unless, of course, you can master Martha Stewart's sauted cucumber recipe or Julia Child's baked cucumbers at Food. We share useful tips and guides on everything about kitchen appliances, utensils, and cooking. Cut and blanch the zucchinis you want to freeze for about three minutes, then dunk them in ice water and drain them. The zucchini plant doesnt trail on the ground but grows upright. They are cut into strips or spiraled then cooked. But cucumber flowers are not edible. The most straightforward way to tell the difference between cucumber and zucchini is by feeling them. I love experiencing new cultures through foods and it shows in my travels. 8 Simple Tips to Store Cut Cucumber Properly. When comparing zucchini vs cucumber, youd notice that both fruits have a long cylindrical shape and green skin at first glance. A cucumber contains 95% water. Treated as a vegetable even though technically a fruit. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on cucumber slices, and you already have a side dish to pair with your meat.
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