If you’re looking for a quick, refreshing, and nutrient-packed drink, celery juice is the perfect choice. Known for its hydrating properties and health benefits, celery juice has become a wellness trend that’s here to stay. The best part? You don’t need a fancy juicer to enjoy it. With just a blender and a few simple steps, you can whip up this vibrant green beverage right at home. Let’s dive into how to make celery juice with a blender and why it deserves a spot in your daily routine.
Why Celery Juice? The Health Benefits
Before we get into the recipe, let’s talk about why celery juice has taken the health world by storm. Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium, magnesium, and folate, celery juice offers numerous benefits:
– Hydration: Celery is 95% water, making its juice an excellent way to stay hydrated.
– Anti-inflammatory Properties: Rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients, celery juice may help reduce inflammation in the body.
– Low in Calories and Sugar: With only 33 calories per cup and minimal sugar, it’s a healthier alternative to sugary drinks.
– Gut Health Support: Unstrained celery juice contains fiber that aids digestion.
– Rich in Antioxidants: These compounds help fight free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Now that you know why it’s worth adding to your diet, let’s get started on making celery juice with your blender.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare fresh celery juice:
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of fresh celery (organic if possible)
– ½ cup water (to aid blending)
– Optional: 1 green apple for sweetness or 1 teaspoon of lemon/lime juice for added zest
Equipment:
– A high-speed blender
– Fine mesh sieve, nut milk bag, or cheesecloth
– A large bowl or pitcher for straining
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Wash the celery thoroughly under running water to remove dirt or pesticides. Chop the stalks into smaller pieces (about 1-inch chunks) to make blending easier. If you’re adding an apple or lemon/lime juice, prepare those as well.
2. Blend
Place the chopped celery into your blender along with ½ cup of water. Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes smooth and resembles a thick puree.
3. Strain
Set up your fine mesh sieve or nut milk bag over a large bowl or pitcher. Pour the blended mixture through the strainer. Use a spoon or your hands to press out as much liquid as possible while discarding the pulp.
4. Add Flavor (Optional)
For an extra burst of flavor, stir in freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice. If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, blend in a green apple during Step 2.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Pour your fresh celery juice into a glass and serve immediately over ice for maximum freshness. You can also store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Tips for Making the Best Celery Juice
– Choose Fresh Celery: Look for bright green stalks that are firm and crisp.
– Don’t Skip Straining: Straining removes pulp for a smoother texture but keeps the nutrients intact.
– Drink on an Empty Stomach: Many enthusiasts recommend drinking celery juice first thing in the morning for optimal absorption.
– Experiment with Add-ins: While purists might stick to plain celery juice, feel free to customize it with other fruits or veggies like cucumber or ginger.
What to Do with Leftover Pulp?
Don’t throw away that leftover pulp! It’s rich in fiber and can be repurposed in creative ways:
– Add it to soups or stews for extra nutrients.
– Mix it into smoothies for added texture.
– Compost it if you have a garden.
Celery juice is more than just a trend—it’s a simple way to boost your hydration and nutrient intake while enjoying a refreshing drink. With this easy blender method, you can skip expensive juicers and still reap all the benefits of this superfood beverage. So grab some fresh celery today and start blending your way to better health!