Cool As A Cucumber

Refresh yourself with these hydrating, low-cal, high-fibre treats – cucumbers are a nutrient-rich food that can help control blood sugar and strengthen bones

CUCUMBER LEMONADE

Serves 6

170g golden granulated sugar
6 large unwaxed lemons
2 medium cucumbers, chopped into cubes
Soda water, for topping up

Mix the sugar with 180ml hot water in a heatproof bowl until the sugar has dissolved. Leave to cool completely. Stir in the juice of the lemons. Cube the cucumbers and tip them into a blender with a splash of water and blitz until liquified. Tip some ice, the sugar-and-lemon mix and the puréed cucumbers into a large pitcher and stir well.

Top up the pitcher with soda water and stir well again, then drop in a few sprigs of rosemary and slices of lemon and cucumber just before serving.

CUCUMBER, PEA & RADISH SALAD

Serves 8

500g frozen peas
1 large cucumber
300g radish
1 bunch chives
2tbsp mint sauce, from a jar
2tbsp white wine vinegar
2tbsp olive oil

Tip the peas into a bowl, pour over a kettleful of hot water and set aside for 10 minutes. Check the peas are tender, then drain really well and set aside to cool. Halve the cucumber and radish lengthways, then slice.

Just before you are ready to eat, mix in the chopped chives, mint sauce, vinegar and olive oil. Season well and garnish with arugula to serve.