How to Use a Blender as a Juicer

Photo: flickr.

If you want to explore the endless world of juicing, it might seem tough to do without a juicer. Never fear! A standard blender can perform most tasks a juicer can, saving you time, money and, most importantly, kitchen space. If you plan on making juice regularly, store your blender in an accessible area like a lower shelf or a designated spot on the counter, so you're always reminded that a delicious, healthy snack is only a few minutes away.

Things You'll Need:

• Blender
  
• Desired fruit or vegetables (frozen or raw)
• Ice Cubes
  

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Make sure your blender is correctly assembled. Many people complain their blender can't tackle heavy-duty tasks. Be sure your blender is screwed together tightly, as this will make the pitcher adhere to the base properly and give it serious power each and every time it blends. Screws can become slightly loose from moving the blender around, so make sure things are secure before you start juicing.

2. Step 2

   Gather your ingredients. As with a juicer, you can use any ingredients you'd like to create your juice. The blender will mix all of these ingredients, ensuring there is an even taste and texture to your juice, so don't be shy about what you put in. Remember that seemingly unpleasant vegetables such as celery or carrots can be altered with just a little sweet fruit such as apple or mango.

3. Step 3

   Chop ingredients into small pieces. Frozen fruit will likely be small so it can go directly into the blender. Raw veggies and fruit such as carrots, celery, bananas or apples should be chopped into small 2-to-4-inch slices. The size may vary depending on the strength of your blender. Start with the smallest slices, and if it seems your blender handles them with ease, you can try starting with larger pieces the next time you make juice.

4. Step 4

   Add ingredients to blender. After making sure your blender is secure and plugged, you can begin adding ingredients. This can be done in any order. Add your desired fruits and/or vegetables along with cubes of ice. Cubes work best as they are small, making it easy for the blender to break them down quickly. Other shapes of ice will work as well, but may take longer to break down depending on the strength of the blender. After you add ingredients, make sure the lid of the blender is secure and shut tight to avoid a mess.

5. Step 5

   Start blending! Put the blender on the highest setting and start blending the ingredients with the ice. If your blender has trouble breaking down fruit, stop the blender. After it has come to a complete stop, reach in with a large spoon and press down on the fruit, moving it closer to the blades. Make sure the blender lid is closed tightly and proceed blending until you have a smooth consistency. The ice will melt down quickly, creating a delicious juice that is fast to make and a great way to get your vitamins and nutrients without eating fruit or veggies all day.