My Favorite Green Juice Recipe from Sarma Melngailis

The Story Behind My Favorite Green Juice

I first discovered green juicing when my friend introduced me to Sarma Melngailis’ cookbook a few years ago. As someone interested in healthy living and nutrition, I was drawn to the vibrant photos and intriguing recipes.

One recipe that stood out was Sarma’s Go Green Juice. It contained simple yet powerful ingredients like kale, cucumber, celery, lemon and ginger. Sarma described the many health benefits of drinking green juices and how this particular combination nourished the body with vitamins, minerals and enzymes.

Why I Love This Green Juice

Packed with nutrients
Alkalizing and detoxifying
Energizing and refreshing
Customizable to your tastes
Easy to make

The Ingredients in Sarma’s Go Green Juice

Kale

This leafy green is full of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, potassium and magnesium. Kale helps remove toxins from the body and provides anti-inflammatory benefits.

Cucumber

Cucumbers are made up mostly of water, making them wonderfully hydrating. They also provide antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene. Cucumbers are cooling, cleansing and mild in flavor.

Celery

In addition to being crunchy, low-calorie and highly hydrating, celery contains essential minerals like folate, potassium, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. It helps flush out toxins and excess fluid from the body.

Lemon

Lemons are a rich source of immune-boosting vitamin C. They also aid digestion, cleanse the liver and help alkalize the body. Adding just a squeeze of lemon brightens up any green juice.

Ginger

Ginger root has many medicinal properties, including being anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial. It also helps improve digestion and absorption of nutrients. Just a thumb-sized knob adds a lovely kick.

My Step-By-Step Method for Making This Juice

Wash all produce thoroughly under cool running water.
Chop kale leaves and celery stalks to fit through juicer feed tube.
Feed all ingredients through juicer, one at a time, to extract juice.
Pour green elixir into a glass. Drink as soon as possible to benefit from max nutrition.
For extra credit: add a scoop of collagen protein powder and mix into juice for more protein!

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Green Juicing

Use organic produce when possible.
Rotate your greens for variety.
Drink juice on an empty stomach.
Consume within 30 minutes for highest enzyme content.
Pair green juice with healthy fats or protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of juicer do you recommend?

My personal favorite is the Omega NC800 masticating juicer. It’s efficient, easy to use and clean, and extracts more juice and nutrients compared to centrifugal models.

How long does the juice last?

For absolute best quality and nutritional value, I recommend drinking green juices immediately, or at least within 30 minutes of making them. You can store green juice covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Can I substitute any ingredients?

Absolutely! The wonderful thing about green juices is that you can customize them. Try spinach instead of kale or parsley instead of cilantro. Apple, pear or orange make tasty additions. Experiment and have fun with different combos!

Is green juicing expensive?

It can seem pricey at first, but when you account for all the nutritional goodies packed into each glass, it’s a bargain! Focus on what serves your body best. Consider buying produce in bulk or when it’s in season to help cut costs.

How much green juice should I drink per day?

There’s no set rule, but 1-2 cups per day is a healthy goal. Listen to your body and what makes you feel vibrant. Green juice is very cleansing, so ease into it if your system is sensitive. It’s all about balance and moderation.