Apple Parsley Wake-Up Call

Parsley adds a clean, green flavor to apple juice without the stronger anise note of fennel or the bitterness of some leafy blends. Chop it roughly, press it into the lemon juice, then strain if you don't want flecks in the glass. The apple keeps the flavor familiar. This is a useful alternative to a sweet smoothie when you want something lighter with breakfast. Flat-leaf parsley gives a clear herbal flavor; a small amount is sufficient.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Cold water
• 2 oz Apple juice
• 1 tsp Flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
• 1/4 oz Lemon juice

Make it

1. Prepare the fruit and herbs as listed. Mash soft fruit to release juice; lightly press herbs or thin ginger slices without shredding them.
2. Add the still juices and stir. Strain out seeds, skins or herb pieces if you prefer a smoother texture.
3. Stir in the cold water. Let fresh fruit, herbs or ginger infuse for 5 minutes, then remove the ginger or herb sprigs when the flavor suits you. Serve chilled.

Benefits

Lemon · a little vitamin C

Using lemon with apple juice and parsley brings vitamin C for absorbing iron from plant foods, along with a clean citrus sharpness.

Apple juice, parsley, and lemon

The apple juice contributes a familiar orchard flavor to parsley and lemon, giving you a specific flavor combination to reach for instead of a default pour.