Fresh Cucumber Juice
Fresh cucumber juice is a cool, crisp, and revitalizing drink made from raw cucumbers, often blended with lemon, mint, or ginger for an added zing. Naturally low in calories and packed with hydration and vitamins, this juice is perfect for cleansing the body, boosting energy, and promoting healthy skin. It’s fast to make and endlessly customizable.
Time:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Blending Time: 2–3 minutes
Straining (optional): 2 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
Base:
2 large cucumbers (peeled if waxed; leave skin on if organic)
1/2 cup cold water (or coconut water for flavor boost)
Optional Add-ins (for flavor and benefits):
Juice of 1/2 lemon or lime (for brightness)
1–2 teaspoons honey, agave, or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
1/2 inch fresh ginger root (peeled and chopped, for a spicy kick)
4–5 fresh mint leaves (cooling effect)
A pinch of sea salt or Himalayan salt (electrolyte boost)
Ice cubes for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Wash and chop cucumbers into chunks.
If using ginger or mint, peel and prepare them as well
2. Blend:
Add chopped cucumbers and cold water (or coconut water) to a blender.
Add lemon juice, sweetener (if using), ginger, and mint.
Blend on high for 1–2 minutes until smooth and frothy.
3. Strain (Optional):
For smooth juice, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a bowl or jug.
Press down with a spoon to extract all the liquid. Discard (or compost) the pulp.
4. Serve:
Pour into glasses over ice.
Garnish with cucumber slices, lemon wedges, or a sprig of mint.
Drink immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes & Tips:
No Juicer Needed: A blender works perfectly. Just strain if you want a clear juice.
Chill Beforehand: Use chilled cucumbers or refrigerate juice before serving.
Make it a Detox Juice: Add celery, parsley, or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Make it Sparkling: Mix with sparkling water for a cucumber soda.
Storage: Best consumed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge (airtight container) for up to 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions FAQs:
Q: Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
A: If they’re waxed or non-organic, peeling is recommended. If organic and well-washed, you can leave the skin on for extra nutrients and fiber.
Q: Can I make this without a blender?
A: A juicer is even faster if you have one. Without either, finely grate the cucumber and squeeze through a cheesecloth, though the yield will be lower.
Q: Is cucumber juice good for weight loss or detox?
A: Yes! It’s hydrating, low in calories, and rich in antioxidants. It can support digestion, flush toxins, and reduce bloating.
Q: Can I make it sweeter naturally?
A: Add a small green apple or a bit of pineapple for natural sweetness without refined sugar.
Q: Can I freeze cucumber juice?
A: Yes, pour into ice cube trays and freeze for future smoothies or chilled drinks.
Nutritional information
Calories: 20–30
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 4–5g
Sugars: 2–3g (natural)
Fiber: 0.5–1g (more if unstrained)
Fat: 0g
Sodium: ~10–30mg (depends on salt)
Vitamin C: ~15% of Daily Value
Hydration: High water content (over 95%)
Fresh cucumber juice is a natural refresher that’s light, cooling, and packed with benefits.