Pineapple Pomegranate Juice

This is a variation on the previous Pineapple Mint Juice recipe. I wanted something more on the sweet side, a juice that could curb my craving for something sweet. Perfectly ripe, sweet fruit is the key to making this juice. The subtle tang, mostly from pomegranate, adds a refreshing note.

Comforting and satisfying, this antioxidant-rich juice is equally nourishing, providing a high dose of vitamin C, B vitamins (especially folate), vitamin K, potassium, manganese and some calcium and iron. Using the second method of preparation, you also get the benefits of cholesterol-lowering, digestion-improving fiber. This sounds pretty awesome for a day-start juice. To increase its cleansing and detoxifying potential, simply add a little ginger and/or lemon.

Note: Everyone has their own method of opening a pomegranate; I find the one shown in this video to be the easiest and best way to avoid making a mess in the kitchen. I used minneolas here, as I sort of developed an obsession for them for being sweeter, juicier, less acidic and easier to peel than oranges; however, if not available, you can use oranges or tangerines instead.

I love my blender juices, but of course you can use a juicer if it's easier for you.

Pineapple Pomegranate Juice
Makes about 400 ml

• 1 cup (170 g) fresh pineapple chunks
• 1 cup pomegranate arils (from 1 large fruit)
• 200 - 250 ml minneola juice with pulp (from 2 large minneolas)

Note: I got the habit of making the minneola juice in advance using a small manual juicer (see pictures on my Beet Juice post), but you can peel and use them directly; make sure to remove the seeds, if any.

Method I - Juice only
Put everything in a blender.
Blend for a few seconds, then check to see if the flesh of the pom arils has come off the seeds, if not continue for a few more seconds.
Strain using a piece of cheese cloth.
Serve right away (for a refreshing drink, use chilled pineapple, or add a couple of ice cubes).

Method II - Juice + Fiber
Blend only the pom arils until the seeds have separated.
Strain and pour the juice back into the blender.
Add the pineapple chunks and minneola juice (or the peeled fruit) and blend until smooth.
Drink up to your health:)

Enjoy and spread the magic!:)

If you've tried this juice I would greatly appreciate your feedback. Thank you!