The cucumber is a vegetable which originated in the tropical regions of South Asia, but now cucumber is widely grown in Europe and North America, and ranks fourth in world vegetable production, after tomatoes, cabbage and onions.
When buying cucumbers, we recommend choosing those with dark green skin, without yellow spots or defects that are firm and well developed without being too wide.
Once home, cucumbers can be stored in the refrigerator for a period of three to five days. If you want to preserve them once they have been cut, the cucumber should be wrapped in transparent film because it can easily absorb odours. They are vegetables that do not tolerate extreme temperatures well, so freezing cucumbers is not advised, as it softens their pulp.
Tomato
The tomato is the fruit of the tomato plant, originally from the Americas. It was introduced in Europe from Mexico.
If you prefer ripe fruits, choose those of a bright red colour with smooth skin. They should feel soft to the touch. If, on the other hand, you prefer a less mature tomato, choose those that are firmer and more pink-red in colour.
If the tomato needs to ripen, it should be kept in a cool place, while avoiding direct sunlight. Unless the tomatoes are fully ripe, they should not be placed in the refrigerator, as the cold temperature prevents them from ripening and affects their flavour. It is preferable to buy a few greener tomatoes to be consumed when they ripen.
Pepper
The pepper plant is native to Mexico, Bolivia and Peru. Peppers were brought to Europe from the first trip made by Columbus to America.
When buying peppers it is recommended to select those which are thick, heavy in proportion to their size, very firm, and bright in colour, with smooth and glossy skin free from marks or bruises.
Aubergine
The aubergine is considered native to India. Its introduction in Europe dates back to the Middle Ages.
The quality of the aubergine is based on its uniformity, firmness, skin colour and size. In general, the tastiest aubergines are the most tender and firm , with smooth, shiny dark purple skin, that are heavier in proportion to their size.
Melon
The origin of the melon is unclear; some authors claim that the melon is native to Central Asia, while others place its origin on the African continent.
The average weight of these fruits ranges between 850 and 1.500 grams.
