Mostly eaten raw, cucumbers can also be puréed in soups, stuffed and baked, or stir-fried. In classic French cooking the skin is always removed, and the flesh salted (dégorged).
For a decorative effect, pare evenly spaced narrow strips of skin lengthwise with a canelle knife. Slice cucumber crosswise, dégorge and drain before serving.
© 1996 All rights reserved. Published by Le Cordon Bleu.