go to freshfarmmarkets.org Cucumbers To be "cool as a cucumber" add them to your menus during the warm summer months when they are in season. Although cucumbers are available year round, they are at their best from May through July. Cucumbers are scientifically known as Cucumis sativus and belong to the same family as watermelon, zucchini, pumpkin and other types of squash. Varieties of cucumber are grown either to be eaten fresh or to be pickled. Those that are to be eaten fresh are commonly called slicing cucumbers. Cucumbers such as gherkins that are specially cultivated to make pickles are oftentimes much smaller than slicing cucumbers. Cucumber and Mint Salad Choose fresh market cucumbers and mint to make this refreshing summer salad and taste the difference yourself. Serves 5 4 to 6 (about 1 1/4 pounds) cucumber(s), peeled, seeded and cut into half-rounds 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely minced 1/4 red onion(s), or 2 scallions or chives, finely chopped 1/2 cup plain yogurt, use non-fat, if you wish 2 teaspoons good quality cider vinegar 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon water, or white wine salt and pepper, to taste mint, for garnish Put the cucumbers in a serving bowl and add the mint. Pour in the remaining ingredients and toss. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again. Garnish with fresh mint and serve chilled.