While researching the most effective healthy green smoothie recipes for detoxing, I came across many that used cucumber as a primary ingredient. I had never before experimented with cucumber recipes, so I figured the veggie deserved a bit more looking into.
It turns out cucumbers are a detox gem.
First of all, they are made up of over 95% water. That alone is enough reason to eat it, as most of us don’t get enough water as it is.
Cucumbers are now recognized as a superfood and are routinely featured in the top five for “most alkaline vegetable.” Of course, it’s vital for us to maintain an alkaline balance in our bodies in order to stay healthy.
These vegetables (that are technically fruits) have a ton of not-too-common compounds as well, including anti-cancer lignans and phyto-nutrients known as cucurbitacins, on top of being rich in Vitamins B1, C, and K.
Due to their high water content, and all those juicy phytonutrients, I knew cucumber would be the ideal cornerstone for a special green smoothie.
Beyond cucumber, I tested other nutrient-packed vegetables and fruits that aid in cleansing, and discovered a few more must-haves: sage, lemon, ginger, parsley, and pineapple.
Combine that with a green tea base, a staple for green detox smoothies, and you have the Sage Blast.
Ingredients
1 cup green tea, chilled
1 cup cucumber
1/4 cup (loosely packed) parsley
1 cup (loosely packed) baby kale
1 cup pineapple
1/2 avocado
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp grated ginger
1 sage leaf
Combine all ingredients in blender and mix until smooth.
This smoothie not only packs quite a punch, but it is a meal in and of itself. They are perfect for cleansing the body while still providing vital nutrients and plenty of energy.
Sage Blast Plus
For an after workout treat, these also work quite well with an added serving of Vegan protein. Despite being primarily a detox smoothie, the Sage Blast also doubles as a solid vitamin-rich recharge.
Simply add one serving of vegan vegetable-based protein and one tsp. of chia seeds per serving of the smoothie. Same great-tasting smoothie with some extra oomph for a perfect post-workout treat.
The founder of Digital Sages, Matt has an extensive background in self-mastery and has authored several books on the subject. His goal is to demystify important esoteric subjects and help people transform their lives through self-awareness and personal empowerment.