Name: Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 3 large cucumbers; 3 Bananas; ½ cup confectioners' sugar; ½ cup lemon juice

Indulge in a refreshing and unique treat with this cucumber ice cream sorbet. Combining the crisp, cool flavor of cucumbers with the natural sweetness of bananas, this recipe offers a delightful balance of taste and texture. Perfect for a warm day, this sorbet is a simple and enjoyable way to cool down.

Photos of Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in your home, you might need to ensure you have enough confectioners' sugar and lemon juice. Fresh cucumbers are readily available in the produce section, and bananas are a staple in most supermarkets. Make sure to select ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.

Ingredients for Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet

cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing, these will form the base of the sorbet, providing a cool, watery texture.

bananas: These add natural sweetness and a creamy texture to the sorbet, eliminating the need for additional dairy.

confectioners' sugar: This finely powdered sugar dissolves quickly and evenly, sweetening the sorbet without any graininess.

lemon juice: Adds a tangy brightness that complements the cool flavor of the cucumbers and balances the sweetness of the bananas.

One reader, La Verne Grayson says:

This cucumber ice cream sorbet is a refreshing delight! The blend of cucumbers and bananas creates a unique, creamy texture, and the hint of lemon adds a perfect zing. It's a guilt-free treat that's perfect for hot days. Highly recommend!

La Verne Grayson

Key Techniques for Making Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet

How to blend ingredients: Use a food processor to combine cucumbers, bananas, confectioners' sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. How to freeze: Transfer the blended mixture to a container and place it in the freezer for at least 3 hours.

How To Make Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet

Enjoy a guilt-free and refreshing dessert with this cucumber ice cream sorbet made healthier with fresh bananas and cucumber blended together.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Freeze Time: 3 hours

Total: 3 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3large cucumbers
3bananas
½cupconfectioners’ sugar
½cuplemon juice

Instructions

Blend the cucumbers, bananas, confectioners’ sugar, and lemon juice in a food processor until smooth.
Transfer to a container and freeze for at least 3 hours.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 88.08kcal
Fat: 0.30g
Saturated Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.07g
Carbohydrates: 22.54g
Fiber: 1.74g
Sugar: 14.91g
Protein: 1.26g
Sodium: 2.99mg
Calcium: 21.22mg
Potassium: 337.11mg
Iron: 0.45mg
Vitamin A: 6.95µg
Vitamin C: 12.84mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet

For a smoother texture, peel the cucumbers before blending. This will help eliminate any potential bitterness from the skin and ensure a more refined sorbet.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Wash, peel, and chop the cucumbers and bananas ahead of time to streamline the blending process.

Use a high-speed blender: A powerful blender will ensure a smoother texture and reduce blending time.

Chill the mixture: Place the blended mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes before freezing to speed up the freezing process.

Freeze in shallow containers: Use shallow containers to freeze the sorbet more quickly and evenly.

Pre-freeze serving bowls: Chill your serving bowls in the freezer to keep the sorbet from melting too quickly when served.

Substitute Ingredients For Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet Recipe

cucumbers - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative for the refreshing quality of cucumbers.
bananas - Substitute with avocado: Avocado provides a creamy texture similar to bananas and adds a subtle richness to the sorbet.
confectioners' sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note, which complements the other ingredients well.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar tartness and acidity, providing the necessary balance to the sweetness of the sorbet.

How to Beautifully Present Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet

Use a chilled plate: Ensure the plate is well-chilled to keep the cucumber ice cream sorbet at the perfect temperature.
Create a quenelle: Use two spoons to form a smooth, oval-shaped quenelle of the sorbet for an elegant presentation.
Add a citrus twist: Garnish with a thin slice of lemon or a twist of lemon zest to enhance the lemon juice flavor in the sorbet.
Incorporate texture: Sprinkle a few crushed pistachios or toasted coconut flakes around the sorbet for added texture and visual appeal.
Drizzle with honey: Lightly drizzle some honey over the sorbet to add a touch of sweetness and a glossy finish.
Add fresh herbs: Place a small sprig of mint or basil next to the sorbet for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve with a side: Pair the sorbet with a delicate shortbread cookie or a tuile for a delightful contrast in texture.
Use a decorative bowl: Present the sorbet in a beautiful, small glass bowl or a porcelain dish to elevate the overall presentation.
Add a fruit garnish: Place a few thin slices of cucumber or banana around the sorbet to highlight the main ingredients.
Finish with a dusting: Lightly dust the plate with confectioners' sugar for a final touch of elegance and sweetness.

Essential Tools for Making Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet

Food processor: Essential for blending the cucumbers, bananas, confectioners' sugar, and lemon juice into a smooth mixture.
Container: Used to transfer the blended mixture into for freezing.
Freezer: Necessary for freezing the mixture for at least 3 hours to achieve the sorbet texture.
Spatula: Helpful for scraping down the sides of the food processor to ensure all ingredients are well blended.
Knife: Needed to peel and chop the cucumbers and bananas before blending.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the cucumbers and bananas.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the confectioners' sugar and lemon juice accurately.
Serving spoon: Useful for scooping and serving the sorbet once it's ready.

Storing and Freezing Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet

Once the cucumber ice cream sorbet is fully frozen, scoop it into an airtight container or freezer-safe bowl. Make sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sorbet to prevent ice crystals from forming.
For longer storage, you can also transfer the sorbet into individual serving containers or freezer-safe bags. This allows you to thaw only the amount you need and keeps the rest of the sorbet fresh.
Label the container or bags with the date you made the sorbet, so you can keep track of how long it's been in the freezer.
The cucumber ice cream sorbet will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. After that, it may start to lose its flavor and texture.
When you're ready to serve, remove the sorbet from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to scoop and give it a creamier texture.
If the sorbet becomes too hard after prolonged freezing, you can let it thaw in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before serving. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short 10-second intervals until it reaches the desired consistency.
Avoid refreezing the sorbet multiple times, as this can cause ice crystals to form and affect the texture. If you have leftovers, it's best to scoop them into a separate container and consume them within a few days.

Interesting Trivia About Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet

A fun fact about this cucumber ice cream sorbet recipe is that cucumbers are composed of about 95% water, making this dessert incredibly hydrating and refreshing, especially on hot summer days.

Is Making Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet at Home Cost-Effective?

This cucumber ice cream sorbet is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, cucumbers, bananas, confectioners' sugar, and lemon juice, are relatively inexpensive and widely available. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $8-$10 USD. Considering the refreshing and unique flavor profile, the overall verdict for this recipe would be a solid 8 out of 10.

Is Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet Healthy or Unhealthy?

This cucumber ice cream sorbet recipe is a refreshing and relatively healthy treat, thanks to its main ingredients: cucumbers and bananas. Here's a breakdown of the health aspects:

Positives:

Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them a hydrating and refreshing choice
Bananas provide natural sweetness and are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber
The recipe does not include any added dairy or heavy cream, which reduces the overall fat and calorie content

Negatives:

The recipe calls for confectioners' sugar, which is a refined sugar that adds empty calories without any nutritional value
Lemon juice, while adding tanginess, does not significantly contribute to the nutritional profile of the sorbet

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of confectioners' sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. This will help decrease the refined sugar content while still providing sweetness.
Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the blender for an extra burst of flavor and a subtle cooling effect. Mint also has potential digestive benefits.
Experiment with adding other healthy ingredients, such as:
- A handful of spinach for an extra nutrient boost (the flavor will be masked by the cucumbers and bananas)
- Chia seeds or ground flaxseed for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids
- A scoop of plain Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and a protein boost

Remember, moderation is key, even with healthier treats. Enjoy this cucumber ice cream sorbet as an occasional indulgence within a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet

This cucumber ice cream sorbet recipe is a refreshing and innovative twist on traditional sorbets. The combination of cucumbers and bananas provides a unique, creamy texture, while the lemon juice adds a zesty brightness. The confectioners' sugar ensures a smooth sweetness that balances the flavors well. However, consider straining the cucumber puree to remove excess water for a more concentrated flavor. Additionally, adding a touch of mint or basil could elevate the dish with a hint of herbal freshness. Overall, it's a delightful and healthy treat perfect for hot summer days.

Enhance Your Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Imagine the smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple skewers, their caramelized edges providing a delightful contrast to the refreshing cucumber ice cream sorbet. The tropical notes will dance on your palate, creating a symphony of flavors.

Minted Pea Salad: A minted pea salad would be an exquisite companion. The crispness of fresh peas and the aromatic burst of mint will elevate the cooling sensation of the sorbet, making each bite a refreshing escape.

Lemon Basil Chicken: For a savory twist, consider lemon basil chicken. The zesty lemon and fragrant basil will harmonize beautifully with the citrusy notes of the sorbet, creating a balanced and delightful meal.

Watermelon Feta Salad: A watermelon feta salad would be a vibrant addition. The juicy watermelon and tangy feta cheese will complement the cool, creamy texture of the cucumber ice cream sorbet, making for a refreshing and satisfying experience.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Envision prosciutto-wrapped melon, where the salty prosciutto meets the sweet, juicy melon. This elegant appetizer will add a touch of sophistication and a burst of flavor to your dessert spread.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like This One

Mango Basil Sorbet: Dive into a tropical paradise with this refreshing dessert. The sweetness of mangoes paired with the aromatic hint of basil will transport your taste buds to an exotic getaway. Perfect for a hot summer day!

Avocado Lime Ice Cream: Indulge in the creamy, rich texture of avocado combined with the zesty kick of lime. This unique dessert is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats. A guilt-free treat that feels luxurious!

Strawberry Mint Granita: Experience the delightful crunch of this icy dessert. Fresh strawberries and cool mint come together to create a refreshing and invigorating treat. It's like a burst of summer in every bite!

Pineapple Coconut Sorbet: Transport yourself to a tropical island with this luscious dessert. The sweet and tangy pineapple combined with creamy coconut makes for a heavenly combination. A perfect way to end any meal!

Watermelon Mint Sorbet: Cool down with this ultra-refreshing dessert. Juicy watermelon and fresh mint create a light and invigorating treat that's perfect for summer. It's a crowd-pleaser for all ages!

Recommended Appetizers and Main Courses to Accompany Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked to perfection, creating a warm, creamy filling that contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a lovely, crispy finish. Serve these bite-sized delights hot, and watch them disappear in no time.

Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers offer a fresh and vibrant start to any dining experience. Picture cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves threaded onto skewers, drizzled with a balsamic reduction. The tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness, while the mozzarella adds a creamy texture. The basil brings a fragrant, herbal note that ties everything together. These skewers are not only visually appealing but also a refreshing and light way to begin your meal.

Main Courses:

Grilled Herb-Crusted Salmon: Grilled Herb-Crusted Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of fresh salmon with a fragrant herb crust. The salmon fillet is marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon zest, and a mix of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and thyme. After marinating, the fillet is grilled to perfection, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Pair this with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad to complete the meal. The combination of the herbaceous crust and the smoky flavor from the grill makes this dish a standout choice for any dinner.**

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a versatile and colorful main course that can be customized to suit any palate. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat (such as beef, turkey, or chicken), rice, tomatoes, and spices. The filling is cooked until the flavors meld together, then stuffed into the peppers and baked until the peppers are tender and the tops are slightly caramelized. This dish can be served with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. The vibrant colors and hearty filling make these stuffed peppers a visually appealing and satisfying meal.**

Why trust this Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet Recipe:

This cucumber ice cream sorbet recipe is a refreshing and healthy treat perfect for hot days. The combination of cucumbers and bananas creates a smooth, creamy texture without the need for dairy. The confectioners' sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness, while the lemon juice provides a tangy kick. This recipe is simple to make and uses natural ingredients, ensuring a delicious and guilt-free dessert. Trust in the freshness and simplicity of this recipe for a delightful and cooling experience.

Share your thoughts on this refreshing Cucumber Ice Cream Sorbet recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to try!

FAQ:

How do I choose the best cucumbers for this recipe?

I recommend using fresh, firm cucumbers with a bright green color. Avoid any that are soft or have blemishes.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of confectioners' sugar?

Yes, you can substitute confectioners' sugar with honey, agave syrup, or even a sugar substitute if you prefer.

How long does the sorbet need to freeze before it's ready to eat?

The sorbet needs to freeze for at least 3 hours, but I find that leaving it overnight gives the best texture.

Can I add other fruits to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment by adding fruits like mint, lime, or even a bit of ginger for an extra kick.

Do I need an ice cream maker for this recipe?

Nope, you don't need an ice cream maker. Just blend everything in a food processor and freeze it in a container.