Green Detox Juice

Green Detox Juice

This refreshing and healthy green juice is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, perfect for a refreshing pick-me-up or part of a detox.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium apple (any variety, cored and roughly chopped)
• 1 medium cucumber (roughly chopped)
• 1/2 lemon (peeled, if desired, or just juiced)
• 1 tiny piece of ginger root (about 1/2 inch, peeled)
• 1/2 to 1 cup water (or more, depending on desired consistency)

Equipment:

• Blender
• Strainer (optional, for smoother juice)
• Serving glass

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Wash the apple and cucumber thoroughly.
   • Core the apple and chop it into pieces that will fit easily into your blender.
   • Chop the cucumber into similar-sized pieces.
   • Peel the ginger root. A small piece is usually enough for flavor; you can adjust to your taste.
   • If you’re using a powerful blender, you can include the lemon peel for extra nutrients, but for a less bitter taste, it’s best to peel it or just squeeze in the juice.
2. Blend:
   • Add the chopped apple, cucumber, lemon (or lemon juice), and ginger to your blender.
   • Pour in 1/2 cup of water.
3. Process:
   • Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well combined. Start with less water and add more gradually until you reach your desired consistency. For a thicker juice, use less water; for a thinner juice, add more.
4. Strain (Optional for a smoother juice):
   • If you prefer a pulp-free juice, place a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl or another glass.
   • Pour the blended mixture through the strainer, pressing down on the solids with the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the pulp.
5. Serve:
   • Pour the fresh green juice into a glass.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Adjust Sweetness: If your apple isn’t very sweet, you can add a small amount of natural sweetener like a date, a few drops of stevia, or a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup (though the natural sweetness of the apple and cucumber is usually sufficient).
• Boost Nutrients:
  • Add a handful of spinach or kale for an even more nutrient-dense drink.
  • A sprig of fresh mint can add a refreshing touch.
  • For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Consistency: For a thicker smoothie-like consistency, use less water or add a few ice cubes to the blender.
• Storage: This juice is best consumed immediately for maximum nutrient retention. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Separation is normal; just give it a good shake before drinking.