Simple Green Juice Recipe + Tips (2024)

This simple homemade green juice recipe takes 6 ingredients, 15 minutes, and a juicer or blender (whatever you have will work.) Easy, healthy, and loaded with nutrition. And it tastes so refreshing!

I've been making this juice for the past two months, and have seen some great benefits. My favorite way to enjoy it is first thing in the morning. This recipe is Mediterranean diet-friendly, and one of many vegetarian recipes my family enjoys.

Simple Green Juice Recipe + Tips (1)

I'm probably one of the last people to join the green juice trend! In the past, I've enjoyed it occasionally, but I sorta cringe at the price of store-bought green juice!

So, I decided to juice my own greens and veggies, and I've been at it consistently for the past two months.Other than the fact that I enjoy the refreshing taste of green juice, it's been a great way to use up produce. And, personally, I've seen some great benefits in increased energy, immunity and more.

When I've shared about this on Instagram, I received so many questions like:

- Why do you drink it?

- What's a simple green juice recipe?

- What time of the day is best to have it?

- Can you make green juice in the blender?

My go-to green juice recipe is simple. It takes 15 minutes, 6 ingredients, and a juicer or blender (whatever you have is fine). I'm excited to share the recipe with you and answer your questions as best as I can.

Why I drink green juice?

I'm not much of a 3-day green juice for detox type person, and I don't drink green juice to replace breakfast necessarily, although sometimes it does. But it's something I added to my daily routine to pack in more vegetables.

Eating the Mediterranean way, I do focus on eating more vegetables, fruit, grains, and lean proteins. But, some days, I do need a bit more of a vegetable power kick, and adding a homemade juice has been a good way to do that.

The benefits of green juice are meany, but I do want to share, from my own experience, why I drink it:

- Extra dose of plant-based nutrition. Like I said earlier, I use this juice to amp up my greens and vegetable intake. Juicing allows me to condense several servings of vegetables in one single drink that's easy-to-consume and packed with vitamins like Vitamin K and Vitamin C, fiber, minerals, including a bit of iron.

- More energy all day.After just a few days of drinking green juice first thing in the morning, I've felt more energetic throughout the day that I was able to eliminate my afternoon cup of coffee without a problem.

- To curb cravings. This is again from my personal experience, since I've been consuming this juice, I've found myself more satisfied throughout the day and less interested in snacking and junk food. I still enjoy a healthy snack occasionally, like a handful of nuts or a little avocado with a sprinkle of za'atar, no problem. But I'm not as interested in sweets (and for this sweet tooth, that's a big deal.) Like my 4-ingredient mango smoothie, it's a great way to satisfy a sweet craving.

- Enhance detoxification. I'll repeat again that I don't do a juice-fast or anything of that nature. In fact, when I think of a "detox," my mind often goes to something like a good vegetable soup. But, I've found that a homemade juice with greens and vegetables supports a healthy liver and can be a good way to kick-start the day and reset my system.

Simple Green Juice Recipe + Tips (2)

What's in it? Ingredients:

- Kale:can't go wrong with this super green! And any variety of kale will work. I used one whole bunch of organic Dinosaur kale which has flatter leaves. (If using a blender, remove the tough veins)

- Ginger: about 1 inch of fresh ginger, peeled, works for me. But if you love the taste of ginger and want to do a bit more, you sure can! It's great for digestion and an extra boost to the immune system.

- Granny Smith Apple: these are the less sweet of the apple options, but they still add just enough natural sweetness to this green juice. Low on carbohydrates, Granny Smith apples provide vitamin C and can help inflammation, among their many benefits. But you can also use other apple varieties. If you want your green juice a bit more on the sweeter side, try Honey Crisp apples, for example.

- Celery: probably the one thing I always have in my juice is celery. I use 5 to 6 celery stalks in this recipe. It's rich with vitamins and antioxidants, but to me, one super important benefit is that it provides some good digestive support.

- English cucumber: any kind of cucumber will work here, but English cucumbers (those longer ones) are sweeter-tasting and their skin is thin, so they're easier to juice. I like adding cucumber because it really does provide ample liquid to help this juice, and I love the refreshing flavor.

- Parsley: parsley is a big part of the Mediterranean pantry, and I use it in many of my recipes and not just to add a nice little garnish. I love the refreshing herby taste it adds here, plus, it's rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and good for your bones!

How to Make Green Juice:

Making green juice at home is as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. First, clean and cut your veggies and apple. Depending on what kind of juicer you have, you'll want to cut the veggies to a size that fits well in the feeder (the part of the juicer you use to add the veggies). With the juicer I use, I can cut my vegetables and fruit in large chunk and that works just fine.

Simple Green Juice Recipe + Tips (3)

Tip: need to save some time, do this step one night in advance and save your fruit and veggies in a tight-lid glass container in the fridge.

2. Juice (or blend).I use this Breville juicer (affiliate link), but a good blender should work just fine.

Simple Green Juice Recipe + Tips (4)

3. Drink!

I don't have a juicer, can I use a blender instead?

You can make this green juice in a blender. Here is what you do:

- Cut the vegetables and apple into smaller chunks, unless you're using a high-power blender, like a Vitamix (affiliate), that can handle big chunks. For kale, it's a good idea to remove the tough veins.

- Place all the juice ingredients in your blender. Cover, and run the blender on the highest setting like "liquify."

- The juice will be thicker, more the consistency of a smoothie. If you like it this way, simply pour and enjoy.

- If you don't enjoy pulp in your juice, use a small mesh sieve to pour the juice through, and use the back of a spoon to press the pulp into the sieve to extract as much liquid as possible.

Simple Green Juice Recipe + Tips (5)

Variations:

I hardly make the same green juice everyday. In fact, I think it's a really good idea to change things up! Here are a few tips on that:

- For example, try replacing kale with spinach or other leafy greens of choice.

- Add citrus, in the form of peeled orange or tangerine. Carrots and tomatoes, both add a bit of sweetness without overwhelming the juice.

- Avoid the temptation to use fruits that are extra sweet like pineapples, or too much fruit. I typically stick to one apple in my juices to keep the sugar content as minimal as possible.

And for herbs, try basil or cilantro. On occasion, I like adding a pinch of organic turmeric powder to give things even more of a boost!

How long will this juice last?

Green juice is best consumed immediately. So for me, I drink it as soon as possible. But, check the manual of your juicer; some allow you to store the juice for 24 hours in a tight-lid glass jar (or whatever container came with the juicer).

Another satisfying drink I enjoy is this banana date shake.

* One final important note: some people with certain medical conditions should not have green juice, and some may not tolerate it as well. Please check your doctor, if you are unsure about trying green juice.

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Simple Green Juice Recipe + Tips (6)

Simple Green Juice Recipe

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5 from 27 reviews

  • Author: Suzy Karadsheh
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 large glasses 1x
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Description

This simple homemade green juice recipe takes 6 ingredients, 15 minutes, and a juicer or blender (whatever you have will work.) Easy, healthy, and loaded with nutrition. And it tastes so refreshing!

I've been making this juice for the past two months, and have seen some great benefits. My favorite way to enjoy it is first thing in the morning. This recipe is Mediterranean diet-friendly, and one of many vegetarian recipes my family enjoys.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 bunch kale (about 5 oz)
  • 1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled
  • 1 Granny smith apple (or any large apple)
  • 5 celery stalks, ends trimmed
  • ½ large English cucumber
  • Handful fresh parsley (about 1 oz)

Instructions

  1. Wash and prep the vegetables. I like to cut them in large chunks.
  2. Juice in the order listed (or add them to a blender and blend on high.)
  3. If you used a juicer, simply pour the green juice into glasses and enjoy immediately. If you used a blender, the juice will be thicker. You can pour it through a fine mesh sieve, and using the back of a spoon, press the pulp into the sieve to extract as much liquid as possible. Pour the strained juice into glasses and enjoy!

Notes

  • Cook's Note: this recipe makes 2 large cups or 3 smaller cups of green juice, about 6 oz or so each.
  • Green juice variations: you can (and should) change up your green juice occasionally. Try replacing kale with spinach or other leafy greens of choice. Add citrus, in the form of peeled orange or tangerine. For herbs, try basil or cilantro. On occasion, I like adding a pinch of organic turmeric powder.
  • Prepare Ahead Tip: Green juice is best consumed fresh (immediately after it's been juiced.) However, to save time, you can wash and cut up your vegetables the night before. Save them in the fridge in a tight-lid container.
  • Blender Option Tip: If using a blender instead, be sure you cut the vegetables and apple to smaller size bites, unless using a power blender that can handle chunks. It's also a good idea to remove the tough veins in the kale.
  • How long will green juice last? Check your juicer manual. Some juicers say that you can store your green juice in a tight-lid jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Again, best to drink the juice immediately.
  • Visit Our Online shop to browse Mediterranean ingredients including spices liker organic turmeric you can occasionally add to your Green juice.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Drink
  • Method: Juiced
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-American

I'm Suzy; born and bred right on the shores of the Mediterranean. I'm all about easy, healthy recipes with big Mediterranean flavors. Three values guide my cooking: eat with the seasons; use whole foods; and above all, share! So happy you're here...
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Simple Green Juice Recipe + Tips (2024)

FAQs

What not to put in a green juice? ›

11 Things You Should Never put in a Juicer
  1. Broccoli. Broccoli has a high vitamin C content, so a lot of people think it will make a good addition to their green juices, but broccoli can be difficult to digest. ...
  2. Avocado. ...
  3. Whole Apples. ...
  4. Coconut. ...
  5. Kale. ...
  6. Pears. ...
  7. Pineapple. ...
  8. Whole Citrus Segments.

What is the trick to juicing? ›

Juicing 101: Tips for Juicing at Home
  1. Pick your produce wisely. ...
  2. Prep in advance. ...
  3. Juice for the whole family. ...
  4. Add subtle sweetness with fruit. ...
  5. Make the clean-up part of your routine. ...
  6. Opt for fresh fruits and veggies. ...
  7. Use the pulp! ...
  8. Drink!
Nov 18, 2020

What can I add to green juice to make it taste better? ›

Carrots and tomatoes, both add a bit of sweetness without overwhelming the juice. - Avoid the temptation to use fruits that are extra sweet like pineapples, or too much fruit. I typically stick to one apple in my juices to keep the sugar content as minimal as possible. And for herbs, try basil or cilantro.

Is it better to drink a green juice in the morning or at night? ›

The alkalinity of green juice, as well as the nutrients present, can have an effect of energizing you for the day ahead and helping you to feel mentally clear and focused. Also, green juice first thing in the morning can alter your physical cravings towards healthier foods and drinks for the rest of the day.

Why does my stomach hurt after drinking green juice? ›

Digestive Issues

A while we're on the subject of stomach upset, certain fruits and veggies are so powerful that you may experience some stomach distress if you drink too much of them. Too many leafy greens or wheatgrass can do this. For others, too much beet will do the same.

What happens if I drink green juice everyday? ›

It stimulates the production of white blood cells, the soldiers of your immune system that protect your body from unwanted invaders. But that's not all ! Green juices are also packed with vitamin A, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of your body's mucous membranes, including those in your airways.

What is the 80 20 rule for juicing? ›

What does that mean? It means that ideally, when you are juicing, you will select and mix ingredients that are proportioned in the ratio of 80% vegetables (or low sugar fruit) and 20% fruit (or high sugar content vegetables).

What vegetables should not be juiced? ›

Vegetables That Should Not Be Juiced Everyday

Spinach contains oxalates and raw kale contains goitrogens. Oxalates are also found in bananas, mangoes, cauliflower, and more. Goitrogens are found in raw cruciferous vegetables and can affect thyroid function in large amounts.

Why do you pee a lot when juicing? ›

Just as when you take a vitamin pill, your body absorbs the necessary quantities and then you urinate the excess. Says Rizzo, “Juicing is a really expensive way to take in a lot of vitamins and minerals that your body is just going to flush out.”

Why add lemon to green juice? ›

Recipe #2: The Tropical Kale, Celery and Lemon Green Juice

Lemons are a popular addition to a number of green juice and for good reason. Since time immemorial, lemons have been used as a popular ingredient for weight loss. They also aid in digestion, promote fresh breath and prevent against kidney stones.

What makes green juice bitter? ›

Bitter greens are leafy greens or vegetables that have an intense bitter flavor profile. They include kale, mustard greens, collards, turnip greens, broccoli rabe, radicchio, chicory, and endive. The bitterness comes from chemical compounds called glucosinolates that can be found in the Brassica family.

How do you make green juice less bitter? ›

Here's a simple trick to cut the bitterness. (Hint: it's not sweet!) Sure, you can add pineapple, agave nectar, or other sweet ingredients to cover up the bitterness of greens. But if you're looking for an easy, less sugary way to balance the flavor, add lemon or lime.

What happens when you drink green juice on an empty stomach? ›

GREAT FOR DIGESTIVE HEALTH

If you find eating breakfast causes digestive upset or have digestive problems overall, having a green juice is a great way to start the day. You are absorbing nutrients in the easiest fashion, being gentle on your gut and healing it at the same time!

Is it okay to drink green juice on empty stomach? ›

One of the many benefits of green juice is weight loss support. It may sound crazy, but drinking just one green juice on an empty stomach daily can change the trajectory of your weight loss goals for good. Cravings can be intense and, at times, hard to control.

Can you drink green juice on an empty stomach? ›

Always drink your green juice on an empty stomach: And wait 30 minutes to an hour before putting anything else in your stomach. The fabulous nutrients in your juice will zip through your body imparting awesomeness in the most efficient manner this way.

What should you not mix when juicing? ›

For instance, mixing starchy vegetables like carrots with high-sugar fruits can cause fermentation in the stomach, leading to bloating and gas. It's generally better to juice fruits and vegetables separately or to pair them wisely.

What should you avoid when juicing? ›

Avoid trying to juice things with low water content. For example, stay away from coconut, sugar cane and grains. These ingredients have massive amounts of fiber but barely any liquid.

What vegetables are not good for juicing? ›

Vegetables That Should Not Be Juiced Everyday

Spinach contains oxalates and raw kale contains goitrogens. Oxalates are also found in bananas, mangoes, cauliflower, and more. Goitrogens are found in raw cruciferous vegetables and can affect thyroid function in large amounts.

Who should avoid green juice? ›

If you have diabetes or another medical condition that contributes to poor blood sugar control, juices may not be the best option for you. These drinks tend to be low in fiber and protein, two nutrients that support balanced blood sugar ( 13 , 14 ).

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