Orange Cantaloupe & Carrot Juice Recipe – Refreshing Summer Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Orange Cantaloupe & Carrot Juice Recipe – Refreshing Summer Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a drink that’s both incredibly refreshing and good for you, especially when the Indian summer heat kicks in. I stumbled upon this Orange Cantaloupe & Carrot Juice a few years ago, and it’s been a family favourite ever since. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and just a little bit earthy – honestly, it tastes like sunshine in a glass!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This juice isn’t just delicious; it’s a powerhouse of vitamins and hydration. It’s super easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is a fantastic way to sneak in some extra fruits and veggies into your day. Plus, it’s naturally sweet, so you won’t feel guilty indulging! It’s become my go-to when I need a quick energy boost or just want something cool and revitalizing.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this vibrant juice:

• 2 oranges (about 150-200 grams)
• 100 grams baby carrots
• 150 grams cantaloupe, cubed
• 8-10 mint leaves
• ½ teaspoon ginger powder (adjust to taste)
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon black salt (kala namak)
• 1 cup water (approximately 240ml), or as required
• Ice cubes, as needed

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Using whole oranges instead of juice makes a huge difference – you get all the lovely pulp and a much fresher flavour.

Cantaloupe is seriously underrated. It’s packed with Vitamin A and C, and it’s incredibly hydrating. It also adds a beautiful sweetness to the juice.

Now, about that black salt! Don’t skip it. It’s not just about the flavour (it adds a unique tang), but in Ayurveda, black salt is known for its cooling properties, which is exactly what you need in the summer.

And a little ginger powder? It just adds a lovely warmth and aids digestion. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking – I sometimes add a bit more when I’m feeling a cold coming on!

Step-By-Step Instructions

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

1. First, peel your oranges and roughly chop them. No need to be perfect here!
2. Add the chopped oranges, baby carrots, and cantaloupe pieces to your blender jar.
3. Throw in those fresh mint leaves – they add such a lovely aroma.
4. Now, sprinkle in the ginger powder and black salt.
5. Pour in the water and add a handful of ice cubes.
6. Blend everything together until it’s beautifully smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little more water.
7. (Optional) If you prefer a pulp-free juice, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve. I usually skip this step, though – I like the extra fibre!
8. Pour into glasses, garnish with a sprig of mint, and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Chill your oranges: Using chilled oranges will give you an even colder, more refreshing juice.
• Don’t over-blend: Over-blending can heat up the juice and make it lose some of its freshness.
• Adjust the water: The amount of water you need will depend on the juiciness of your fruits and your preferred consistency. Start with 1 cup and add more as needed.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Sugar-Free Option: This juice is naturally sweet enough for most people, but if you prefer it a little sweeter, you can add a touch of honey or maple syrup.
• Spice Level – Ginger Adjustment: My friend, Priya, loves a really spicy kick, so she often adds up to a full teaspoon of ginger powder. Feel free to experiment!
• Adaptations for Hot Weather: On scorching days, I like to freeze some of the cantaloupe cubes beforehand. They act like extra ice cubes and keep the juice wonderfully chilled.
• Using Different Citrus Fruits: Don’t have oranges? Try using mandarin oranges, sweet limes (mosambi), or even a grapefruit for a different flavour profile.

Serving Suggestions

This juice is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a light breakfast or a summery lunch. It’s especially good with poha or upma! I sometimes serve it as a welcome drink when I have guests over – it always gets rave reviews.

Storage Instructions

Freshly made juice is always best, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the juice may separate, so give it a good stir before drinking.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this juice good for weight loss? This juice is low in calories and packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to a weight loss diet. However, it’s important to remember that juice alone won’t lead to weight loss – it needs to be part of a balanced lifestyle.
• Can I use orange juice instead of whole oranges? You can, but the flavour won’t be as fresh or vibrant. Whole oranges provide more pulp and nutrients.
• What are the benefits of adding carrots to this juice? Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is great for your eyes and skin. They also add a subtle sweetness and a beautiful colour to the juice.
• Can I make this juice ahead of time? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients (chop the fruits and veggies) ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
• How can I adjust the sweetness of the juice? If it’s not sweet enough, add a little honey or maple syrup. If it’s too sweet, add a squeeze of lime juice.

I really hope you give this Orange Cantaloupe & Carrot Juice a try. Let me know what you think in the comments below! Happy juicing!