Lauki Juice Recipe – Refreshing Cucumber Mint Cooler for Summer

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Lauki Juice Recipe – Refreshing Cucumber Mint Cooler For Summer

Okay, let’s be real. Summer in India? It demands a cooling drink! And honestly, this Lauki Juice (or Bottle Gourd Juice) is my absolute go-to. I first made this a few years ago when I was looking for something light and refreshing, and it’s been a family favourite ever since. It’s unbelievably easy to make, super hydrating, and surprisingly delicious. Trust me on this one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average juice. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies, especially if you’re not the biggest fan of lauki on its own. It’s incredibly light and doesn’t leave you feeling heavy, even on the hottest days. Plus, it’s ready in under 5 minutes – perfect when you need a quick and healthy pick-me-up! It’s a total win-win.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a glass of this goodness:

• 1 cup Lauki (Bottle Gourd), peeled and chopped (about 150-200g)
• A handful of Mint Leaves (roughly 15-20 leaves)
• ½ tsp Cumin Powder (Jeera Powder)
• ¼ tsp Crushed Black Pepper (Kali Mirch)
• 1 inch Ginger, roughly chopped
• ½ tsp Salt (or to taste)
• 2 tsp Lemon Juice
• 1 cup Chilled Water (240ml)
• A few Ice Cubes

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about why these ingredients work so well together!

• Lauki (Bottle Gourd): Don’t underestimate this humble veggie! It’s incredibly hydrating – over 90% water – and packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s also known for its cooling properties, making it perfect for summer.
• Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a beautiful, refreshing flavour. It also aids digestion and leaves you feeling revitalized.
• Cumin & Black Pepper: This dynamic duo isn’t just about flavour. Cumin is fantastic for digestion, and black pepper helps with nutrient absorption. They also add a lovely warmth that balances the coolness of the lauki and mint.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get juicing! It’s seriously simple.

1. First, grab your blender. Add the chopped lauki, mint leaves, cumin powder, crushed black pepper, ginger, salt, and lemon juice.
2. Now, pour in the chilled water.
3. Blend everything together until it’s super smooth. You don’t want any chunks! If it’s too thick, add a splash more water.
4. Finally, pour the juice into a glass, add a few ice cubes, and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Chill Everything: Using chilled water and even chilling the lauki beforehand makes the juice extra refreshing.
• Don’t Over-Blend: Over-blending can make the juice a little frothy. Blend just until smooth.
• Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice, salt, or pepper to suit your preference.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Sweetness Boost: My friend Priya loves to add a little bit of dates or a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit more heat, add a tiny pinch of green chilli!
• Ginger Power: My mom always adds a slightly larger piece of ginger – she swears it’s great for colds.
• Herb Heaven: Try adding a few coriander (cilantro) leaves along with the mint for a different flavour profile.
• Apple Addition: A small piece of green apple can add a lovely sweetness and texture.

Serving Suggestions

This juice is best enjoyed immediately. It’s perfect as a breakfast drink, a mid-afternoon refresher, or even as a healthy alternative to sugary sodas. I love pairing it with a light snack like some roasted chana (chickpeas).

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this juice is best consumed fresh. However, if you absolutely have leftovers, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that it might separate a little, so give it a good stir before drinking.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

• Is Lauki Juice good for weight loss? Yes! It’s low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. Plus, it’s a great way to stay hydrated.
• Can I drink Lauki Juice daily? Absolutely! It’s a very healthy drink and can be enjoyed daily as part of a balanced diet.
• What are the health benefits of Lauki Juice? It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s known to aid digestion, promote hydration, and even help regulate blood pressure.
• Can I add other vegetables to Lauki Juice? Definitely! Cucumber, spinach, and celery are all great additions.
• How can I make Lauki Juice more palatable? If you find the taste of lauki a bit bland, try adding more lemon juice, mint, or a touch of sweetness. Experiment and find what works for you!