Cucumber Mint Detox Smoothie

Refreshing Cucumber Mint Detox Smoothie

This vibrant green smoothie is incredibly hydrating, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for a light breakfast, a revitalizing snack, or as part of a detox routine. The combination of cucumber and mint is incredibly cooling and cleansing.

Yields: 1-2 servings Prep time: 5-7 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium cucumber, peeled (or unpeeled if organic and washed well), roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, packed (adjust to your taste – more for a stronger mint flavor)
• 1 green apple (like Granny Smith), cored and roughly chopped (adds natural sweetness and tang)
• 1/2 cup water (or coconut water for added electrolytes and natural sweetness)
• Juice of 1/2 to 1 lemon or lime (freshly squeezed, to taste, for brightness and detox benefits)
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled (optional, but highly recommended for its anti-inflammatory properties and zest)
• Optional: 1/2 cup ice cubes (for a colder, thicker smoothie)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds (for extra fiber and omega-3s)
• Optional: A handful of baby spinach or kale (you won’t taste it much, but it boosts nutrients)
• Optional: A small amount of natural sweetener like a few drops of stevia, 1/2 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, if desired

Equipment:

• Blender

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Wash and prepare all your fruits and vegetables. Chop the cucumber, apple, and ginger (if using) into smaller pieces to ensure easy blending.
2. Add Liquid First: Pour the water (or coconut water) into your blender. This helps the blades move freely.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the chopped cucumber, fresh mint leaves, chopped green apple, freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice, peeled ginger (if using), ice cubes (if using), chia seeds/flax seeds (if using), and spinach/kale (if using) to the blender.
4. Blend Until Smooth: Secure the lid and blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash more water or coconut water. If you prefer it colder, add more ice.
5. Taste and Adjust: Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed. You can add more lemon/lime juice for more tang, or a natural sweetener if you prefer it sweeter. If the ginger is too strong, you can dilute it with more water.
6. Strain (Optional, for a smoother juice-like consistency): If you prefer a completely smooth, pulp-free “juice” consistency, you can strain the smoothie through a fine-mesh sieve or nut milk bag after blending. Press down on the solids to extract all the liquid. Discard the pulp (or use it in compost!).
7. Serve Immediately: Pour the cucumber mint detox smoothie into a tall glass.
8. Garnish: Garnish with a fresh cucumber slice on the rim of the glass and a sprig of fresh mint, as pictured.
9. Enjoy: Sip and enjoy this incredibly refreshing and cleansing beverage!

Tips and Variations:

• Make it Colder: If you don’t have time to chill the cucumber, using frozen cucumber chunks instead of fresh will make your smoothie extra cold and thick without diluting the flavor.
• Boost the Detox:
  • Add 1/4 teaspoon of spirulina or chlorella powder for extra greens and detoxifying properties.
  • A pinch of cayenne pepper can be added for a metabolism boost (start with a tiny amount!).
• Fruit Variations: While green apple is classic, you could also try a small amount of pineapple or pear for different sweetness and textures.
• Herbal Additions: Besides mint, a few sprigs of fresh parsley or cilantro can also be added for their cleansing properties and unique flavor.
• Storage: This smoothie is best consumed immediately for optimal freshness and nutrient retention. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The color might change slightly, but it will still be good.

Enjoy this revitalizing and delicious Cucumber Mint Detox Smoothie!