Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a quick look at why this green juice is such an integral part of Nana’s daily routine.
Packed with Nutrients
This green juice contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from fresh greens and fruits. The combination supports immunity, boosts energy, and nourishes the body from the inside out.Supports Digestion
The ingredients in the juice are all-natural and gentle on the stomach. They support digestion, improve gut health, and enhance nutrient absorption.Boosts Hydration
Nana’s green juice is hydrating, which is key to starting the day feeling refreshed. Proper hydration helps keep the skin glowing, the metabolism running smoothly, and energy levels high.Balances pH Levels
The greens in the juice help balance the body’s pH, which is crucial for maintaining overall health and wellness. By drinking it in the morning, Nana ensures her body stays alkaline, rather than acidic.Natural Detox
This juice is a gentle detoxifier. It helps flush out toxins, which is an important part of maintaining healthy skin, a strong immune system, and good energy levels.
The 1 Green Juice Recipe My Nana Swears By
This green juice is simple, yet powerful, made with fresh, organic ingredients. The best part is that it doesn’t require any special equipment other than a blender or a juicer, making it easy to prepare every morning. Nana’s version is flexible, and you can adjust it based on what’s available, but there are a few key ingredients that she always includes.
Here’s the step-by-step recipe:
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Kale (1-2 handfuls)
Kale is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, K, and folate, as well as antioxidants like lutein, which is great for eye health. It’s high in fiber, which aids digestion and detoxification.Spinach (1 handful)
Like kale, spinach is loaded with nutrients, including iron, magnesium, and vitamin K. It’s also rich in chlorophyll, which helps purify the blood and boost overall vitality.Cucumber (1 medium-sized)
Cucumber adds hydration and a mild, refreshing taste to the juice. It’s packed with water, which helps flush out toxins and keep your body hydrated. It also contains antioxidants that support skin health.Celery (2-3 stalks)
Celery is another hydrating ingredient. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to support digestion. The high water content of celery helps maintain a healthy pH balance in the body.Apple (1 medium-sized)
An apple adds a natural sweetness to the juice, making it more palatable. It’s rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support heart health and boost immunity.Lemon (½ lemon)
Lemon adds a burst of vitamin C and helps alkalize the body. It also supports the liver in detoxifying the body and provides a zesty flavor to balance the greens.Ginger (1-inch piece)
Fresh ginger adds a kick to the juice and is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It helps with bloating, improves circulation, and provides a natural energy boost.Water or Coconut Water (1 cup)
To help blend the ingredients and ensure the juice is smooth, Nana uses water or coconut water. Coconut water is an excellent choice as it is high in potassium and helps with hydration.
Optional Ingredients:
Chia Seeds (1 tbsp)
If you want to make your juice even more nutrient-dense, add chia seeds. They provide omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein.Mint Leaves (a few sprigs)
For a refreshing twist, add a few sprigs of fresh mint to the juice. It enhances the flavor and has digestive benefits.
Step-by-Step Method to Make Nana’s Green Juice:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing all the produce thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. Organic fruits and vegetables are preferred for the most health benefits.
- Kale: Tear the leaves off the stem and roughly chop them into smaller pieces.
- Spinach: No need to chop, but make sure the leaves are clean.
- Cucumber: Slice it into chunks for easy blending or juicing.
- Celery: Cut the stalks into smaller pieces.
- Apple: Core and slice the apple into quarters. You can leave the skin on for extra fiber.
- Lemon: Cut the lemon in half and remove the seeds.
- Ginger: Peel and chop the ginger into small pieces.
- Mint (optional): Pick a few sprigs from your mint plant.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a high-powered blender, add all the prepared ingredients. Start with the softer ingredients (like spinach, mint, and cucumber) at the bottom for easy blending. Then, add the tougher greens like kale and celery, and top it off with the apple, ginger, lemon, and water (or coconut water).
Blend on high speed until everything is smooth. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more water or coconut water.
Tip: If you're using a juicer, you’ll need to juice the ingredients separately and then mix them together afterward.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Once the juice is fully blended, taste it. If you want it sweeter, you can add a little more apple. If it’s too thick, add extra water or coconut water to achieve the consistency you prefer. For an extra zing, you can squeeze in some more lemon juice.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Pour the freshly made green juice into a glass or a mason jar. If you want to make it feel more refreshing, you can add ice cubes. Drink it immediately to get the most nutrients, or store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
The Benefits of This Green Juice for Your Health:
Nana swears by this green juice because it helps her feel energized, detoxified, and ready to take on the day. Here’s a breakdown of the specific benefits each ingredient provides:
- Kale & Spinach: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, these greens support overall health, improve digestion, and strengthen the immune system.
- Cucumber: Provides hydration, supports detoxification, and soothes inflammation.
- Celery: Reduces bloating, improves digestion, and maintains a healthy pH balance.
- Apple: Offers natural sweetness while promoting digestive health and heart function.
- Lemon: Supports the liver, alkalizes the body, and boosts the immune system.
- Ginger: Reduces inflammation, promotes digestion, and increases energy levels.
Why You Should Try It Too:
If you’re looking for an easy, energizing way to start your day, Nana’s green juice recipe is the perfect choice. It’s packed with nutrients that support every system in your body, from your immune system to your digestive tract, all while providing hydration and cleansing your body naturally.
The best part is that this juice is incredibly easy to make, and you can customize it based on your taste preferences and what’s in season. By drinking this green juice daily, you’ll feel the benefits of increased energy, improved digestion, better hydration, and a healthy glow.
So, why not give Nana’s green juice a try? It might just become the secret to your own vitality and energy, just like it has for her. Cheers to a healthy, vibrant day ahead!
