Grape and Pineapple Juice

Whether you’re looking to invigorate your morning routine, searching for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up, or aiming to impress guests with a unique and delicious beverage, this Grape and Pineapple Juice recipe is your go-to solution. It’s been my go-to juice for years when I’m craving something a little more vibrant instead of my basic green juice. It’s also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for those seeking both nutrition and flavour in their glass.

Benefits of Fresh Pineapple Juice

Pineapple juice is a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and contains an enzyme called bromelain, which aids in digestion and can reduce inflammation. Juicing pineapple at home ensures you’re getting all the goodness without the added sugars of store-bought juice. Plus, when you mix pineapple with red grapes, you’re getting a dose of antioxidants, which are great for your health. This juice recipe is more than just a drink; it’s a green juice (when you add spinach) and a fruit juice cocktail that your body will thank you for.

Suggested: The Impressive Benefits of Strawberry Juice

Pineapple spinach juice or pineapple grape juice – whichever variation you choose, this juice is a healthy addition to any meal or can be enjoyed on its own for a midday pick-me-up. The combination of fresh juice from pineapples and grapes creates a nutrition-rich green juice that’s not just good for you, but also incredibly tasty.

Pineapple Juice Ingredients

• 1 ripe pineapple
• 2 cups of red grapes
• 1 inch of ginger (optional for a spicy kick)
• Ice cubes (for serving)

How to Cut a Pineapple

1. Prep the Pineapple: Start by cutting the top and bottom off the pineapple. Stand it upright and slice off the skin in strips, making sure to remove all the eyes. The core of a pineapple is edible, so you can juice it, but if you prefer a less fibrous juice, you can remove the core with a knife or a core cutter.
2. Juice the Pineapple: Cut the fresh pineapple into chunks that will fit into your juicer.
3. Juice the Grapes: Remove the grapes from the stems, give them a good rinse and toss them into the juicer.
4. Add Ginger: If you’re a fan of a little spice, peel and juice a small piece of ginger with your fruits.
5. Blend the Juices: Combine the fresh pineapple juice and grape juice in a large pitcher.
6. Serve Chilled: Pour the juice over ice cubes in glasses for a refreshing drink. The natural sugars from the fruit make this juice sweet enough, so there’s no need for added sugar.
7. Garnish (Optional): Add a sprig of mint or a slice of orange for a colorful garnish that complements the drink’s vibrant flavors.

How To Make Pineapple Juice With or Without Juicer

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Ensure the pineapple is peeled, cored, and chopped into chunks. Wash the grapes thoroughly.
2. Blend: Place the pineapple chunks and grapes in a blender. If your blender struggles with the fibrous pineapple or the skins of the grapes, add a little water to help it along. Blend on high until you achieve a smooth consistency.
3. Strain (Optional): For a smoother juice, you can strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth over a large bowl. Use a spoon to press down and extract as much juice as possible. If you prefer a thicker, more fiber-rich drink, skip this step.
4. Serve: Pour the juice into glasses, over ice if desired, for a refreshing and cooling drink.
5. Refrigerate Any Leftovers: Store any leftover juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

How To Choose A Pineapple

Choosing a ripe pineapple involves a few simple steps:

1. Look: Select a pineapple with a vibrant green crown and golden-yellow skin. The color should be consistent, indicating even ripeness.
2. Smell: Sniff the base of the pineapple. A ripe one will have a sweet, tropical fragrance. If it smells fermented or sour, it’s overripe.
3. Feel: The pineapple should feel firm but slightly yielding to gentle pressure. Avoid pineapples that are too soft or have soft spots, which indicate overripeness or decay.
4. Weight: Pick it up; it should feel heavy for its size, suggesting it’s juicy.
5. Leaf Test: Gently tug on a leaf from the top crown. It should resist slightly but come out easily if it’s ripe.

Remember, pineapples stop ripening once harvested, so what you see is what you get. Choose wisely for the best flavor and sweetness!

How Do I Ripen My Pineapple?

To encourage a pineapple to ripen, store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight. While pineapples do not significantly ripen or become sweeter after being harvested, allowing it to sit at room temperature can help it become softer and juicier. If you’re looking to enhance its juiciness before consumption, try this method for a few days.

However, be mindful not to leave it out too long to avoid overripening or spoilage. Once it reaches your preferred level of ripeness, you can refrigerate it to slow down the process and extend its shelf life. Keep in mind that the changes will be minimal, as the sweetness and color of the pineapple are largely determined by its ripeness at the time of harvest.

How to Cut a Pineapple

To cut a pineapple, follow these simple steps:

1. Lay the Pineapple on its Side: On a cutting board, lay the pineapple on its side.
2. Remove the Top and Bottom: Using a sharp knife, slice off the top crown and the bottom of the pineapple.
3. Stand it Upright: Stand the pineapple up on one of its flat ends.
4. Slice Off the Skin: Carefully slice down the sides, following the curve of the pineapple, to remove the skin. Try to cut just deep enough to remove the outer skin and eyes.
5. Remove Any Remaining Eyes: If any of the small brown “eyes” remain, use a small knife or a peeler to remove them.
6. Cut into Quarters: Slice the pineapple lengthwise into quarters.
7. Remove the Core: Cut away the hard core from each quarter.
8. Slice or Cube: Finally, cut the pineapple into slices or cubes, according to your preference.

Remember, always use caution when handling a sharp knife. Enjoy your freshly cut pineapple!

Is the Pineapple Core Edible

Yes, the pineapple core is edible, though it’s firmer and less sweet than the rest of the fruit. It contains high levels of bromelain, an enzyme that can help with digestion and reduce inflammation. Some people find the texture too tough, but it can be used in smoothies, juiced, or cooked to soften it. Eating the core can offer additional nutritional benefits, so consider incorporating it into your diet instead of discarding it.

Suggested: Benefits of Kale Juice

How to Store Fresh Pineapple Juice

To store fresh pineapple juice, pour it into an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, and refrigerate immediately. Fresh pineapple juice is best enjoyed within 1-2 days, but it can last up to 5-7 days in the fridge.

Can you Freeze Fresh Pineapple Juice

For longer storage, freeze the juice in an airtight container or ice cube trays for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use. Remember, fresh juice may separate over time; simply shake or stir it before serving to recombine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I juice pineapple peels

Yes, you can juice pineapple peels, but ensure they’re thoroughly cleaned to remove any pesticides or dirt. However, it’s less common and not everyone’s preference due to the tough texture and strong flavor.

What do I do with pineapple juice pulp

Use pineapple juice pulp in smoothies, baking (cakes, muffins), compost it, or as a natural exfoliant in homemade skincare recipes.

Other Juicing Ideas and Smoothies

• Banana, Apple and Ginger Smoothie
• Mango Spinach Smoothie
• Benefits of Drinking Lemon Juice and Olive Oil

Final Thoughts

Remember, the best juice recipes are the ones that fit your personal taste and nutritional needs. Feel free to tweak this pineapple juice recipe to your liking. Perhaps add some orange juice for a citrusy twist, or throw in some spinach for an extra green juice boost.

Enjoy the process of juicing and the delicious results. Here’s to a sweet, fresh, and nutritious addition to your healthy home-cooked repertoire!