Anyone who gardens in the summer in Phoenix knows that regular cucumbers fry in our triple digit temperatures. But Armenian Cucumbers, which by the way are actually melons, thrive. Plant them in the late spring or early summer and you will have cucumbers all summer long. Just be careful, they grow fast. If you miss spotting one for a few days you are sure to pull out a monster. Their size can give zucchinis a run for their money.
That’s another great thing about Armenian Cucumbers! It doesn’t matter how big they get, they are always good. I think the best size to use them, however, is about a foot long. Their perfect scalloped edges are so pretty when sliced.
Armenian cucumbers have a lower water content than regular cucumbers, so while they are crisp, they are a bit less juicy. Try it in all kinds of recipes. They also make fantastic pickles…but then, what doesn’t? You can get Armenian Cucumber seeds from Baker Creek here: Rare Seeds.
Try this quick and simple recipe that is perfect for Armenian Cukes!
Spicy Armenian Cucumber Salad
Its crunchy, sweet, sour, salty, and spicy! My whole family loves this dish.
Here is all you need to make it.
Slice up your Armenian Cucumber, add it to a bowl with the chili oil, vinegar, soy sauce, salt, and spicy peanuts. Toss, and its done! Cilantro would be nice, but it isn’t in season in the Phoenix summer, so try some Thai basil, which is. Mmm…
I use these amazing Hot and Spicy Peanuts from Kroger, but if you don’t want it too spicy, just use regular peanuts.
Spicy Armenian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 1 Medium Armenian Cucumber
- 1/3 cup Seasoned Rice Vinegar
- 2 Tbls Soy Sauce
- 1-2 tsp sesame chili oil
- Pinch of salt
- Chopped Hot & Spicy Peanuts
- Thai Basil (optional)
Directions
- Slice cucumber into thin or thick slices (whichever you like)
- Mix all ingredients except peanuts together in a bowl and toss
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top
That’s it. Super quick and easy, unlike the Phoenix summer!
