How much protein is in 4 slices of cucumber?

November 19, 2025 •

3 min read

With cucumbers being over 95% water, they are not a significant source of macronutrients like protein. So, how much protein is in 4 slices of cucumber? The short answer is a very small, often negligible, amount.

Quick Summary

This article explores the minimal protein content of four cucumber slices. It details the vegetable's overall nutritional composition, its primary health benefits beyond protein, and offers ideas for complementing cucumbers with other foods to create a more protein-rich snack.

Key Points

Minimal Protein: 4 slices of cucumber contain a negligible amount of protein, often reported as less than 0.2 grams.
High Water Content: Cucumbers are over 95% water and are primarily beneficial for hydration, not protein intake.
Not a Protein Source: For effective protein consumption, cucumbers need to be paired with other protein-rich foods.
Low Calorie Snack: This vegetable is excellent for a low-calorie diet but will not contribute meaningfully to your daily protein target.
Rich in Other Nutrients: Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins, including K and C, as well as minerals like potassium.
Complementary Snacking: To create a balanced snack, pair cucumber slices with protein sources like hummus, Greek yogurt, or nuts.

Understanding the Nutritional Profile of Cucumber

At over 95% water, cucumbers are prized for their hydrating properties, low-calorie count, and refreshing taste rather than their protein content. The protein that is present is minimal, meaning it contributes very little to a person’s overall daily intake. For those seeking to increase their protein consumption, cucumbers should be paired with protein-rich foods, not relied upon as a primary source.

Breaking Down the Numbers: How Much Protein is in Cucumber?

When examining the nutritional data for cucumbers, it is clear that they are not a protein powerhouse. The exact protein content in a small serving can vary slightly based on the size and variety of the cucumber, as well as whether it is peeled or not. For a standard serving of four slices, the protein count is extremely low.

Protein in a 4-Slice Serving

Based on a general nutritional analysis, four slices of raw, peeled cucumber contain a small amount of protein. Some sources report approximately 0.2 grams of protein in this serving size. Other data suggests the amount is so negligible it is rounded down to 0 grams. This means that for a snack, the protein contribution from cucumber slices is virtually non-existent and should not be factored into your daily protein goals.

Protein in a Larger Serving

To put the protein content into perspective, consider a larger serving. A full cup of sliced, raw cucumber (with the peel) contains only about 1 gram of protein. Even a whole, medium-sized cucumber offers just over 1 gram of protein. This confirms that even in larger quantities, cucumbers are not a significant protein source.

Beyond Protein: The True Health Benefits of Cucumbers

Despite the very low protein levels, cucumbers are a valuable addition to a healthy diet due to their other nutritional properties. These benefits include:

Excellent Hydration: With a high water content, cucumbers help the body stay hydrated, which is essential for numerous bodily functions.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Cucumbers contain several important nutrients, including Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and potassium.
Antioxidant Properties: They contain antioxidants, including cucurbitacins, which have been studied for their potential to inhibit cancer cell growth.
Blood Sugar Management: As a non-starchy vegetable with a low glycemic index, they are a great snack for managing blood sugar levels.
Support for Heart Health: Cucumbers contribute to heart health through their fiber and potassium content, which can help regulate blood pressure.

Complementing Your Cucumber Snack

Since four slices of cucumber provide very little protein, pairing them with other protein-rich foods is the best strategy for a more satisfying and complete snack. Here are some ideas:

Hummus Dip: The combination of fiber and protein in hummus makes for a balanced snack with a good flavor profile.
Greek Yogurt Dip: Mix sliced cucumbers into a bowl of Greek yogurt with some herbs like dill for a creamy and protein-packed treat.
Nut Butter: A small amount of almond or peanut butter with cucumber slices can add healthy fats and protein.
Edamame: Pair your cucumber slices with a side of edamame for a complementary, plant-based protein boost.
Cottage Cheese: Enjoy cucumber slices with a serving of cottage cheese for a high-protein, low-calorie snack.

Comparison Table: Cucumber vs. Protein-Rich Snacks


Snack (Approx. Serving)	Protein (g)	Key Benefits
4 Slices Cucumber	~0.2g	Hydration, Vitamin K, Low Calorie
1 Hard-Boiled Egg	~6g	Complete Protein, Vitamin B12
1/4 Cup Almonds	~6g	Healthy Fats, Fiber, Vitamin E
1/4 Cup Hummus	~4g	Plant-based Protein, Fiber, Iron
1/2 Cup Cottage Cheese	~12g	High Protein, Calcium, Fullness

This table highlights the significant difference in protein concentration between a cucumber snack and other common, protein-focused options. For a more detailed breakdown of cucumber's nutritional values, you can consult reliable sources such as Eat This Much.

Conclusion

While four slices of cucumber are an excellent choice for a low-calorie, hydrating snack, they offer a negligible amount of protein. The primary health benefits of cucumbers come from their high water content, vitamins, and antioxidants. To make a more substantial and protein-rich snack, it is best to pair cucumber slices with other foods that are known sources of protein. Enjoying them in combination with hummus, yogurt dip, or nuts is a great way to boost your protein intake while still reaping the benefits of this crisp and refreshing vegetable. The takeaway is simple: enjoy cucumbers for their crunch and hydration, but don't count on them to meet your daily protein goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, cucumber is not a good source of protein for vegetarians or anyone else, as its protein content is very low. Vegetarians should seek other plant-based protein sources like legumes, nuts, seeds, and tofu.

A medium-sized, whole cucumber contains only about 1.2 grams of protein. Even eating an entire cucumber will not provide a significant amount of protein.

While you can eat a lot of cucumber for hydration and other nutrients, it is not an efficient way to increase protein intake. You would need to eat a very large amount to gain a small amount of protein.

The primary nutritional benefit of cucumber is its high water content, which aids in hydration. It also provides a low-calorie source of vitamins, such as K and C, and minerals like potassium.

No, removing the peel has a negligible effect on the protein content of cucumber. The protein is distributed throughout the vegetable, but the total amount is so small that peeling does not change its status as a non-protein source.

Excellent high-protein pairings for cucumber include dips like hummus, tzatziki (made with Greek yogurt), or a simple side of cottage cheese or almonds.

The peel of a cucumber contains a small amount of extra fiber and nutrients like vitamin K. While the difference is not substantial, eating the cucumber with the peel is generally recommended for maximum nutritional value.