Introducing the First Watch Kale Tonic - a deliciously refreshing and healthy green juice recipe that is a perfect balance of tangy and sweet taste with detoxifying greens. This superfood recipe was inspired by one of my favorites from First Watch Restaurant.
Jump to:
At First Watch, our family loves their commitment to clean and healthy ingredients, making it our go-to spot in multiple states.
Plus, it helps that the food is quite delicious. If you haven't already, be sure to try my other favorite menu items: avocado toast, AM Superfood Bowl, and the Healthy Turkey Omelet. YUM!
Whenever we visit, one of my must-order items is the infamous Kale Tonic.
It's the perfect way to kickstart the day with a nutritious drink packed with leafy greens and the goodness of fuji apples.
This well-known superfood infusion complements our quest for a healthy diet, boosts the immune system, and improves energy levels throughout the day.
It's also perfect for kids, ensuring they get enough vegetables in their morning routine (without even tasting like it!)
Our toddlers love it! Total mom win!
For another couple of juice shot recipes try our anti-inflammatory shot or our energizing liver cleanse juice! Want a colon cleansing juice? Try our energizing beet and ginger colon cleanse juice or the sweet potato juice recipe for weight loss.
Before we get started, we always recommend setting healthy intentions. By setting specific intentions, preparing food becomes more mindful and rewarding. To learn more about the fundamentals of setting intentions check out our free intentions and affirmations guide!
Ingredients
Kale: The darker the color, the greater the health benefits of kale. Organic is best.
Lutein, zeaxanthin, and carotene are three of the most potent phytochemicals that contribute to kale's high nutritional value.
Cucumber: Always get organic cucumbers, too. Cucumber is anti-inflammatory and a great source of vitamins and minerals. Cucumbers are rich in vitamins c, b, and k, as well as potassium, copper, phosphorus, zinc, and magnesium.
These essential nutrients contribute to cucumber's hydrating abilities as they help replenish electrolytes in the body.
Fuji Apples: These apples give this tonic a sweet and tart flavor. It masks the bitterness of kale perfectly and gives the tonic its unique First Watch taste.
Always buy organic apples. Be sure to check to see if it has the apeel coating. We recommend apples that do not have the apeel coating. Unfortunately, the label doesn't always have the info.
It will feel slightly waxy and slick. Organic apples with no coating will have just the skin and won't likely be shiny at all.
Here is a list of stores that sell apeel. And here is a list of stores that do not sell apeel. If we find that we've accidentally purchased these products, we simply remove the skins and hope for the best!
Lemon: Lemon juice is the finishing touch that ties the fruit and vegetable juices together for a delightful hint of tanginess in the aftertaste.
Simply remove the peel and add it in. Lemons help to alkalinize the body. They also help to boost the immune system and stimulate bile production in the liver.
Instructions
1. After washing and drying the produce, peel the lemon and chop the cucumber, apples, and lemon into smaller pieces, approximately 1 inch thick. This is to ensure they fit into the juicer.
2. Assemble the juicer and plug it in. Turn it on and begin feeding the kale leaves in one at a time, followed by the lemon. Since lemon is a softer fruit, the juice from the lemon helps push the leafy greens through the filter better.
3. Once the lemon is done, feed the apple pieces through, followed by the cucumber.
4. Let it run for a few short moments longer so all of the juice is thoroughly extracted before turning the juicer off. Unplug it then stir the juice and pour it into a glass to serve. Add ice cubes, if desired. Enjoy!
Tips: If there is foam this is completely normal. You can scoop it off the top if you prefer.
It is normal to have separation. Just give it a stir and drink up!
Chewing your juice is also very beneficial. Hear me out!
Making the chewing motion triggers your salivary glands, which is the very first step in our body's digestive process.
If you drink too fast, you bypass the important digestive enzymes present in your saliva!
Substitutions and Variations
Adding or changing ingredients will make it different than the original First Watch recipe. That being said, have fun with it, and add a few things to increase the flavor and nutritional value!
There are a lot of different ways to enjoy a green juice or smoothie.
One of my favorite things to add to juice recipes is a small piece of ginger root. Simply remove the skin and throw it in, letting the juicer work its magic.
Ginger is incredibly anti-inflammatory and adds a lovely spice to any drink.
Celery is also an excellent addition that does not change the flavor profile too much. Celery is wonderful for overall health, especially the digestive system.
It is extremely hydrating and will add to the bulk of your juice output. Just throw in a celery stalk and reap the benefits!
If you aren't a fan of lemons, you can swap it out for lime juice.
If you are on a keto diet, consider omitting the apples. They contain high levels of fructose which can derail ketosis. If you need a sweetener, consider adding pure monk fruit.
If you want to enjoy this a different way, consider leaving it in blended form. This recipe makes a lovely green smoothie that tastes just as wonderful.
Equipment
Juicer
Omega Masticating Juicer, C...Shop on Amazon
or
High-Speed Blender
Vitamix, Red 7500 Blender, ...Shop on Amazon
and
Mesh Strainer
Kafoor Fine Mesh Strainer -...Shop on Amazon
Storage
For best results, consume fresh juice immediately, or within 24 hours. If using a masticating juicer, you can store a glass of this juice in a mason jar for up to 72 hours.
If you are storing more, use individual mason jars or a larger airtight container.
As juice ages and is oxidized, the nutrients rapidly break down and lessen over time. This is why it is best to consume immediately.
Regular Mouth Mason Jars 32...Shop on Amazon
Top tip
When cleaning your produce, use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar and water 1:1 ratio in a spray bottle.
Spray it on your produce and let it sit for one minute before rinsing off.
If needed, use a soft brush to scrub it. Vinegar helps to kill any bacteria present and it is very inexpensive compared to premade vegetable washes!
FAQ
Kale Tonic's ingredients are packed full of beneficial ingredients which makes it a perfect addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle. You may notice increased energy levels, improved immune system function, less pain and inflammation, and more. Kale Tonic is an excellent addition to any weight loss or healthy lifestyle journey. Making it at home, you can do even more with it and ensure you get the best quality ingredients.
The kale tonic includes raw kale leaves, an English cucumber, Fuji apples, and lemon juice.
There are approximately 130 calories in a 10-12oz glass of Kale Tonic.
There are approximately 23 grams of carbs and 8 grams of sugar in Kale Tonic.
Absolutely! In fact, it is incredibly beneficial. Regular consumption of green juice or smoothies helps to build up a level of beneficial nutrients in your body. The body will utilize these nutrients to improve your overall health and bodily functions as well as strengthen your immune system and clear your detox pathways.
More Juice and Smoothies
Looking for more juice recipes like this? Try these:
Recipe
First Watch Kale Tonic Juice (Copycat Recipe)
Equipment
- Juicer or
- cutting board
- Chefs knife
Ingredients
- 4 leaves organic purple kale leaves
- 1 organic cucumber
- 2 organic Fuji apples
- 1 lemon peeled
Instructions
- Wash all produce thoroughly. Chop the cucumber, apples, and lemon into 1-inch thick pieces that will fit in your juicer.
- Put your juicer together, if necessary, and plug it in. Turn it on, per instructions for your specific juicer brand. Make sure the pitcher is in the right place to receive the juice. Feed each kale leaf through one at a time, followed by lemon pieces.
- Once the lemon is done juicing, feed the apple pieces through and then the cucumber pieces.
- Make sure all of the pieces have been processed through the feed and turn the machine off. Stir the juice gently and serve in individual glasses. Add ice cubes if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Do you love First Watch's Kale Tonic? Let us know what you think in the comments below! What recipe should we copycat next? Don't forget to share and follow us on social media! Want more recipes like these? Subscribe to our newsletter!
Have a healthy week!
Natalie
Comments
No Comments