How many calories are in 1 bowl of cucumber?

November 21, 2025 •

3 min read

Comprised of about 96% water, cucumbers are one of the most hydrating foods you can consume, a fact that directly contributes to their low-calorie density. Understanding exactly how many calories are in 1 bowl of cucumber is key for anyone monitoring their intake, offering a refreshing and healthy option for salads, snacks, and meals without adding significant calories.

Quick Summary

A bowl of cucumber is a low-calorie, hydrating food ideal for weight management. The exact calorie count depends on the bowl's size and preparation method, such as peeling or adding dressings. Cucumber provides essential vitamins and fiber, making it a healthy and filling addition to any meal.

Key Points

Low Calorie Count: A standard bowl of chopped cucumber is very low in calories, typically ranging from 30 to 50 kcal, depending on the bowl's size.
High in Water: Composed of up to 96% water, cucumber is an excellent food for hydration, which can support weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness.
Nutrient-Rich Peel: Leaving the peel on the cucumber maximizes its nutritional value, providing more fiber, Vitamin K, and antioxidants like beta-carotene.
Versatile Ingredient: Cucumber can be enjoyed in various ways, from a simple, plain snack to a more complex salad, adapting easily to different dietary preferences.
Smart for Weight Management: Due to its high volume and low-calorie density, cucumber is an ideal food for creating a calorie deficit and reducing overall calorie intake.
Consider Add-ons: Calorie count increases with added ingredients like dressings and oils; a plain bowl offers the lowest calorie option.

Understanding Cucumber Calories per Bowl

Determining the calorie count for a "bowl" of cucumber is not an exact science, as bowl sizes vary dramatically. A standard reference for measuring vegetables is a cup, and most nutritional data indicates that one cup of chopped or sliced cucumber contains between 15 and 17 calories. Therefore, a typical serving bowl, which might hold two to three cups of cucumber, would contain approximately 30 to 50 calories. This figure can change based on a few key factors, including the presence of the peel and any added ingredients.

Factors Influencing Calorie Count

Peeled vs. Unpeeled: When you peel a cucumber, you remove a small amount of fiber and other nutrients, which slightly lowers the calorie count. However, the difference is minimal and often outweighed by the nutritional benefits of keeping the peel on, which contains beneficial beta-carotene and vitamin K. For example, one source suggests a cup of cucumber with peel has 16 calories, while without the peel it has 15 calories.
Added Ingredients: The calorie count for a bowl of cucumber can quickly increase if you add other ingredients. A plain bowl is extremely low-calorie, but adding dressings, oils, or other vegetables like onions or tomatoes can change the nutritional profile significantly. For example, a simple cucumber salad with a vinaigrette can have a much higher calorie count due to the oil and sugar in the dressing.
Portion Size: While a standard measuring cup is a reliable way to gauge calories, the volume of a “bowl” can be subjective. It's always best to use a measuring cup for accurate tracking if you are strictly monitoring your intake. A small cereal bowl holds a different volume than a large salad bowl, so adjusting your calculation is necessary.

Comparison Table: Cucumber vs. Other Salad Vegetables


Vegetable (per 1 cup)	Preparation	Calories (Approx.)	Net Carbs (Approx.)	Primary Benefit
Cucumber	Sliced, with peel	16	3g	High Water Content, Hydration
Celery	Chopped	16	1g	High Fiber, Vitamin K
Bell Pepper	Chopped	30	5g	High Vitamin C
Spinach	Raw	7	1g	Vitamins A, K, Folate
Tomato	Chopped	32	5g	Vitamin C, Potassium, Antioxidants

The Health Benefits of a Low-Calorie Cucumber Bowl

Beyond just being a low-calorie food, cucumbers offer several health advantages. Their high water content is crucial for maintaining hydration, regulating body temperature, and supporting organ function. The small amount of fiber in cucumbers promotes healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation. Furthermore, cucumbers contain various antioxidants, including flavonoids and tannins, which combat inflammation and may reduce the risk of chronic disease. For those managing weight, a bowl of cucumber can be a perfect snack to create a feeling of fullness for very few calories, helping to curb overall intake.

How to Create a Healthy Cucumber Bowl

Making a delicious and healthy cucumber bowl is simple. Here are some ideas:

Simple Cucumber Bowl: Chop one or two cucumbers into slices or cubes. Add a pinch of sea salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This is the ultimate low-calorie snack, maximizing hydration and refreshing flavor.
Greek-Inspired Cucumber Bowl: Combine chopped cucumber with diced tomatoes, red onion, a few Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. Dress with a light vinaigrette made from lemon juice and a touch of olive oil.
Spicy Cucumber Bowl: Toss chopped cucumbers with rice vinegar, a teaspoon of sesame oil, some minced garlic, and a dash of chili flakes for a zesty, flavorful side.
Protein-Packed Bowl: Add shredded chicken, chickpeas, or a scoop of cottage cheese to your cucumber bowl for a more satisfying meal that incorporates protein for sustained fullness.

Conclusion: A Smart, Hydrating Choice

For those watching their calorie intake, a bowl of cucumber is an excellent dietary choice. Its low calorie density and high water content make it a filling, hydrating, and nutritious addition to any meal or snack. By being mindful of the portion size and any extra ingredients added, you can enjoy a refreshing bowl of cucumber while effectively managing your weight and boosting your nutrient intake. The versatility of cucumber means it can be prepared in numerous healthy ways, ensuring it remains a staple in a balanced diet.

For further reading on nutrient density and managing calorie intake, see this guide from Noom.

Frequently Asked Questions

One cup of chopped cucumber, with its peel, contains approximately 16 calories.

It is generally better to eat cucumber with the peel, as it contains more fiber, vitamins (like Vitamin K), and beneficial antioxidants compared to peeled cucumber.

Yes, cucumber can aid in weight loss. Its low calorie count and high water content help you feel full, reducing overall calorie consumption.

Adding dressing, especially oil-based vinaigrettes, can significantly increase the calorie count of a cucumber bowl. For a low-calorie option, use lemon juice or vinegar.

The primary benefit is its high water content, which is excellent for hydration. Cucumbers also provide vitamins and antioxidants with very few calories.

While it's difficult to consume excessive calories from cucumber, eating large amounts in one sitting might cause stomach discomfort. Moderation is key, just like with any food.

Botanically, cucumber is a fruit, as it develops from the flower of a plant and contains seeds. However, it is most often used and considered a vegetable in culinary contexts.