I used to work just a few minutes away from Healthy Home Market. I loved that place. Still do, actually. But I haven’t been in so, so long. When I was at my old job, I’d visit HHM maybe two to three times a week. Sometimes to get lunch, sometimes just to look. Because clearly grocery window-shopping is completely normal.

My new job isn’t close to HHM, but it is right next to EarthFare, another Charlotte healthy foods supermarket. Healthy Home still holds first place in my heart, but EarthFare fills the void whenever the grocery window-shopping mood strikes.

Now, supermarkets like this can get expensive, so I normally just buy the things I can’t find at my regular store. But lately I’ve been lured into EarthFare’s juice bar, never leaving the store without a cup of freshly-juiced fruits and veggies clenched in my hand. At around $3-$5, depending on the size you get, that stuff adds up.

Since Kevin and I received I received the Breville Juice Fountain Plus for a wedding gift, I figured I should probably kick my EarthFare habit and start making it myself. My favorite calls for carrots, apples, parsley and ginger. Turns out, it’s just as easy – and less expensive – to make at home!

best consumed in wine glass with colorful straw

I took my best guess at how much of each ingredient to use, and it turned out really well. The best thing about juicing is it’s all about what you like, so if it’s not sweet enough, add another carrot or apple. Needs more kick? Add some ginger.

A word of caution… Ginger root has a strong taste and it really adds an extra zest to the drink. If you make this at home, just know that even a small slice (around ½ inch) of ginger can give the drink enough spice to suit your taste preference. I love ginger and used about a 3-inch piece of root.

make this juice: spicy carrot and apple
serving size: 2

• 6 carrots
• 3 apples
• 3 inches ginger root
• Handful of parsley

Store any extra juice in a mason jar and try to drink it within a 24-hour period. You get the most nutrients when consumed right away, so start chugging!