Beet roots, or as most know them beets, are the star in this brightly colored juice. Beets are considered excellent for their cardiovascular benefits, and because of their rich color, beets are also high in antioxidants. Beets are an excellent source of folate, vitamin C, and the phytochemical compound glycine betaine. Betaine lowers homcysteine levels in the blood, which promotes clotting and plaque formation in your blood vessels. You can add both the root and the greens to your juice if you like. The greens are rich in vitamin A, and are an excellent source of carotenoids and flavonoid anti-oxidants. This beet juice is so colorful kids love it, so you can sneak in lots of nutrition in this fun and colorful drink.
Ingredients
- 2 medium granny smith apples (granny smith apples are tart and offset the taste of the beets)
- 1 beet root 2″ diameter (with or without the greens)
- 4 medium carrots
- 2 stalks of celery
- 1 small lime
Directions
Wash all ingredients and let drain. Trim celery and peel the lime.
Using a cutting mat, take a sharp knife and cut beet and apple into chunks that will fit in your juicer. Use caution when cutting beets, their deep red color can stain clothes, cutting surfaces, and other items.
Feed apples, carrots, celery, and lime through the juicer first, saving beets for last. Because beets are thick and dense, you should do them last. They can clog up the juicer, forcing you to have to clean it in the middle of making your juice.
Variations:
1) If your beet juice has a “muddy” taste to it, increase the amount of lime, or add a few drops of honey or stevia to the juice. This will give the juice a sweeter, tangier taste.
2) If you want to add more nutrition to your juice, you can add the beet greens and a handful of spinach to your juice. Start with the greens and set your juicer on the lowest speed. Then proceed to the remainder of the ingredients as directed.
3) Add 1/2 a cucumber and a 1″ length of peeled ginger to the juicer for a refreshing juice that can help to settle your stomach.
