# Green Juice

> A nutrient-packed green juice loaded with vegetables and fruit. This is an all-time favorite juice that's perfect for boosting your vegetable intake and supporting overall health.

**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Total time:** 10 minutes
**Servings:** 1-2
**Storage:** Best consumed immediately; can refrigerate up to 24 hours

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## Ingredients

- 6-7 baby carrots
- 1 Granny Smith apple
- 3-4 stalks of celery
- 1 small cucumber
- 3 cups finely chopped kale
- 1 peeled lime
- Sea salt to taste

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## Shopping List

### 🥬 Produce
- [ ] 6-7 baby carrots
- [ ] 1 Granny Smith apple
- [ ] 3-4 stalks of celery
- [ ] 1 small cucumber
- [ ] 3 cups finely chopped kale (about 1 bunch)
- [ ] 1 lime

### 🧂 Seasonings
- [ ] Sea salt

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## Instructions

1. **Prepare ingredients.** Wash all vegetables and fruit. Peel the lime.

2. **Juice.** Juice the veggies and fruit in a juicer, and top it off with some sea salt.

3. **Serve.** Drink immediately for maximum nutrients, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

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## Why It's Healthy

| Ingredient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Kale | High in vitamins A, K, and C; powerful antioxidants |
| Carrots | Rich in beta-carotene for eye health |
| Celery | Hydrating and contains anti-inflammatory compounds |
| Cucumber | Hydrating and alkalizing |
| Apple | Natural sweetness plus fiber and vitamin C |
| Lime | Vitamin C and helps with detoxification |

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## Notes

- **Blood sugar concerns:** If you have blood sugar concerns, blend with 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil or 1 avocado. This slows down sugar absorption and makes it more satisfying.

- **Equipment:** A juicer is recommended for best results, but you can also use a high-powered blender and strain through a nut milk bag.

- **Taste:** The Granny Smith apple provides tartness and balances the earthy greens. Adjust to your preference.

- **Sea salt:** Don't skip the salt - it enhances all the flavors and provides essential minerals.

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## Tips

- **Prep ahead:** Chop all vegetables the night before and store in the refrigerator
- **Maximize nutrients:** Drink within 15 minutes of juicing for maximum enzyme activity
- **Storage:** Store in an airtight glass container for up to 24 hours, but nutrients degrade over time
- **Customize:** Adjust ratios based on your taste preferences - more apple for sweetness, more kale for greens

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## Variations

- **Tropical Green:** Add pineapple or mango for a sweeter version
- **Ginger Kick:** Add a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger for digestive support
- **Beet Boost:** Add 1 small beet for additional detox support
- **Herb Power:** Add fresh parsley or cilantro for extra nutrients
- **Spicy:** Add a small piece of jalapeño for metabolism boost
