1. Melon and Cucumber Salad
Cucumber and melon go together like PB&J, but this combination is extremely refreshing. Try watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew or even a combination of melons with your cucumbers, and mix in mint, goat cheese or feta and a balsamic vinegar glaze to make it a more robust, flavorful meal.
2. Cucumber Juice
Love green juices? Skip the celery and kale and make your next juice with your abundance of cucumbers. This cucumber juice recipe is delicious on its own or mix it with sparkling water for extra hydration. You can even use it as a mixer for unique, summery cocktails.
3. Cucumber Sandwiches
Take a tea break and enjoy some mini (or full-sized) cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches. No recipe needed — just slather your favorite bread, sans crust, in cream cheese (try a flavored variety for a twist) and thinly sliced cucumbers, then pair with a nice cup of tea.
4. Gazpacho
While summer is winding down, there are still some hot temperatures on the forecast. Stay cool with a chilled cucumber soup, or gazpacho. This recipe delivers a cool, creamy cucumber gazpacho with no cooking required, or try a gazpacho with a twist with this recipe for a spicy tomatillo-cucumber gazpacho.
5. Cucumber-Yogurt Salad
When you want something delicious but light, turn to this recipe for creamy cucumber-yogurt salad. The Greek yogurt base is not only great for adding creaminess and tanginess to the salad, but it’s also a great source of protein. Enjoy this salad on its own or as a side to your favorite Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
6. Smashed Cucumber Salad
If you haven’t tried this viral recipe, now’s your time to do so. This recipe walks you through how to turn all those cucumbers from your garden (or the grocery store!) into a flavorful yet refreshing dish that you’ll want to eat long after summer’s gone.
7. Cucumber Kimchi
Kimchi can be made with many ingredients, including your surplus of cucumbers. This recipe combines cucumbers and carrots into a crunchy, spicy snack, side dish or garnish. Best of all, this kimchi only needs to sit and ferment for about 12 to 18 hours before it’s ready.
8. Cucumber Canapés
Looking to impress a crowd or treat yourself to a fancy dinner? First, start with this recipe for elegant cucumber canapés, complete with a smoked salmon mousse for extra flair. Don’t forget to grab some dill, chives or parsley from the garden, too, for the mousse and as garnish.