About this recipe
This Mexican Cactus Green Juice (also known as licuado de nopal or mexican jugo verde). Packed with vibrant ingredients like cactus, pineapple, celery, parsley, lime, and chia, this drink is the perfect way to start your day or enjoy as a midday boost.
This is the juice you will find in every breakfast restaurant in Mexico, and many Mexican families start their days with it. As with every recipe, each family or restaurant has its own way of making it. This is mine and the one I grew up having.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Cactus Green Juice
Nopal. Cactus is packed with fiber and antioxidants and is known for its numerous health benefits. When blended with refreshing pineapple, hydrating celery, and zesty lime or lemon, the result is a tangy, naturally sweet, and nutrient-dense licuado de nopal that your body will thank you for.
Why my jugo de nopal recipe is different?
This Mexican jugo verde also includes chia seeds rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fiber. This drink isn’t just delicious; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients that can help boost digestion, improve skin health, and keep you full and energized throughout the day.
Health Benefits of Mexican Cactus Green Juice
This licuado de nopal is not just tasty; it’s packed with health benefits! As with all green juices and healthy drinks, you may have to get used to it, but it is totally worth it. Here’s what makes it so special:
- Nopal (cactus) is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, high fiber content, and ability to help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Pineapple adds a natural sweetness along with vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system.
- Celery is great for hydration and supports healthy digestion.
- Parsley is full of antioxidants and helps detoxify the body.
- Chia seeds are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, and fiber to help you feel full longer.
Tips for Making the Perfect Mexican Cactus Green Juice
- If you prefer a thicker texture, blend the juice with a handful of ice or frozen fruit to make it more like a smoothie. I like to use frozen pineapple.
- Adjust the amount of lime juice and pineapple to suit your taste. If you like a tangier flavor, add more lime juice. You can even start by adding more pineapple to make it sweeter and slowly reducing it.
- You can add a small piece of agave or honey for added sweetness. However, the pineapple usually provides enough natural sweetness.
- If you want to detoxify this juice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
- Make this recipe yours and add cucumber, oranges or mandarines.
Mexican Cactus Green Juice
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1-2 nopal cactus paddle peeled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chopped
- 3 stalk celery chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1-2 cups of water or coconut water for extra hydration
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Start by peeling and slicing the nopal cactus paddle. Be sure to remove the thorns and any tough skin. Chop the pineapple and celery, and juice the lime.
- Blend: In a blender, combine the nopal, pineapple, celery, parsley, and lime juice. Add chia seeds and water (or coconut water) to the blender and blend until smooth.
- Serve: Pour your mexican jugo verde into a glass, give it a little stir, and enjoy! You can also add ice cubes for a chilled version or serve it immediately for a fresh, vibrant taste.
Notes
- Drink Immediately: Enjoy your licuado de nopal right after blending for the best taste and freshness.
- Strain if Needed: If the juice is too thick for your liking, you can strain it to remove any excess fiber. This will give you a smoother consistency.
- Use a Juicer: If you prefer a lighter, more liquid texture, use a juicer instead of a blender. This method separates the pulp and leaves you with a pure, smooth juice.
Nutrition
information
Nutritional information of this recipe is only an estimate, the accuracy for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.
Mi enfoque está en recetas que reúnen a las personas alrededor de la mesa, haciendo de cada comida un momento sencillo, delicioso y significativo. También soy autora de Yo Cocino Latino, y mis recetas han sido destacadas en varias revistas y publicaciones en línea.
¡Sígueme en mis redes sociales para inspiración diaria, tips y recetas deliciosas! Y si alguna vez pruebas una de mis recetas — o tienes una receta familiar favorita — ¡me encantaría saberlo! Mándame un DM en Instagram y hablemos de comida. 🍽️✨
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