Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

　　

Ingredients

Serves 2

　　a 3/4- to 1-pound seedless cucumber

　　2 teaspoons olive oil

　　1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

　　1/4 cup water

　　2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves

　　

Step 1

Peel cucumber and quarter lengthwise. Cut out and discard core. Cut each quarter crosswise into 4 pieces. Cut each piece lengthwise into 4 strips.

　　

Step 2

In an 8- to 9-inch non-stick skillet heat oil ove moderately high heat until hot but not smoking and sauté cucumber with salt to taste, stirring, 3 minutes. Stir in cumin and water. Boil mixture, stirring, until liquid is evaporated and stir in mint and salt and pepper to taste.