This cold-pressed juice is made with blue spirulina powder, perfectly blending it with fresh fruits and veggies for the ultimate refreshing superfood juice you can enjoy anytime!
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5 from 26 votes
PinIt’s time to upgrade your celery juice! I don’t know about you, but the idea of drinking pure celery juice sounds just a bit too “healthy” for me. I need some added fruit for sweetness and a little more excitement in my juice. I’ve long wanted to make a blue juice, but every previous attempt (using blueberries, blue grapes, blue cabbage, you name it) turned out more purple than blue.
Enter: blue spirulina (which is similar to the more commonly used green spirulina – check out the FAQ section below to read more about the difference between the two), a highly nutritious natural supplement derived from an edible blue-green algae. The powder blends with the juice perfectly, adding its vibrant blue color and multiple health benefits all at once.
Table of Contents
PinWhy You’ll Love This Blue Spirulina Juice
- It has all the benefits of a green juice, plus some added fun thanks to the blue color & added superfood benefits
- It’s quick and easy to make
- It’s an energy booster
- It’s much more enjoyable than a plain celery juice!
- The recipe can easily be customized to your liking
What is Blue Spirulina?
Blue spirulina, also known as phycocyanin, is a blue-green pigment derived from a type of blue-green algae called Spirulina, which is a type of cyanobacteria that grows in both fresh and saltwater. It’s known for its rich nutritional content and has been consumed as a dietary supplement for centuries.
It gets its vibrant blue color from phycocyanin, which is a natural pigment that belongs to the family of phycobiliproteins. Phycocyanin is commonly used as a natural food coloring and is popular due to its many potential health benefits.
The powder can be used to add a natural blue or turquoise color to foods and drinks, such as smoothie bowls, juices like this one, and desserts, making it a healthier and more natural alternative to synthetic food colorings, which are often derived from artificial sources.
The Benefits of Blue Spirulina
Pin- It’s high in protein: 100 grams of spirulina powder (both the green and blue varieties) contain 57 grams of protein, so over 50%. In comparison, 100 grams of steak contain about 25 grams of protein. Naturally, you won’t be consuming the powder in quite the same amount, but it’s still a great source of plant protein that you can easily add to your smoothies, juices, vegan yoghurt and even desserts.
- Immune System Support: spirulina has been studied for its potential to support the immune system, helping the body’s defenses against infections and illnesses.
- Blood Pressure Regulation: Research suggests that blue spirulina may contribute to the regulation of blood pressure, promoting cardiovascular health.
- Blood Vessel Health: The consumption of blue spirulina has been linked to potential benefits for blood vessels, promoting their health and function.
- Amino Acids: Blue spirulina contains essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins and are vital for various physiological functions.
- Essential Vitamins: Blue spirulina provides essential vitamins necessary for overall health and well-being, such as vitamin B.
- Oxidative Stress Reduction: Studies suggest that spirulina may reduce oxidative stress, which is associated with various diseases and aging.
- Heart Health and Disease Prevention: Consumption of blue spirulina has been associated with potential benefits for heart health, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- LDL Cholesterol Management: Blue spirulina may have a positive impact on LDL cholesterol levels, contributing to a healthier lipid profile.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The anti-inflammatory effects of blue spirulina may help combat chronic inflammation, which is linked to various diseases.
- Popular Alternative to Synthetic Additives: Blue spirulina is a popular natural alternative to synthetic food colorings and additives, promoting a healthier approach to food and beverage coloring.
- Blood Sugar Level Regulation: Some studies suggest that blue spirulina may help regulate blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
- Memory Function Support: Preliminary research indicates that blue spirulina may have positive effects on memory function, although more studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Disclaimer: It’s important to note that while there is evidence supporting these potential benefits, individual responses to blue spirulina may vary, and further research is ongoing to fully understand its effects on health. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or supplementation.
PinBlue Spirulina Juice Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Green apples: I find green apples like Granny Smith Apples to be optimal for juicing. They’re sweet, but not too sweet and blend with the other ingredients perfectly. You can, of course, use any other variety of apples. Tip: if you’re unsure about the amount of sweetness you’d like your green juice to have, start with one apple, taste test the juice, then add more if needed.
Celery: Don’t like celery? You’re in luck. You’ll barely be able to taste it in this juice, so this is the perfect way to consume it. If you can’t find it, however, you can replace it with more cucumber, or use fennel instead (just make sure you use smaller quantities since fennel has a very intense taste).
Romaine lettuce: I personally prefer romaine, but any other type of lettuce like iceberg or butter lettuce will work too!
Blue spirulina (in powder form): If you can’t find blue spirulina and don’t care about the color of the juice, you can use green spirulina, barley grass juice powder, or wheatgrass powder instead. You can also omit it, or add more vegetables!
A quick note on blue spirulina & superfoods in general: f you consume a lot of smoothies, juices, smoothie bowls etc and are looking for a fun way to add some color while adding benefits, then spirulina is wonderful. That said, as with any so-called “superfood”, it’s not essential to a healthy diet and you can absolutely get all the nutrients you need by simply eating a varied and balanced diet.
🌿TIP: for a little extra boost, try adding ginger root to your blue juice!
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PinRecommended Equipment
A juicer: a cold press/slow juicer is ideal for this recipe. Scroll down to see the one I recommend.
Optional accessories: all other accessories are optional, but I’d recommend drinking juice with a reusable glass straw to protect your teeth. For easy storage, glass jars are always useful and can be repurposed in multiple ways.
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8 Pack Reusable Glass Drinking Straws
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Ball Mason Jars 16oz
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Nama J2 Cold Press Juicer (10% OFF code: BOV10)
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PinHow to Make This Blue Spirulina Superfood Juice
- Prepare your produce: Wash the apples, celery and lettuce. If you’re using a juicer with a wide opening (like this one), then you can leave the produce whole. Otherwise, make sure you cut it into smaller pieces. (Note: if you’re concerned about juicing apple seeds, which can be toxic, the amount used here is too small to have any kind of negative effect, but you can, of course, cut the apples and remove the seeds first if you prefer).
- Start juicing: Turn on your juicer, add the produce and watch the magic happen. Optionally strain the juice (I usually don’t!), then add it to a large pitcher.
- Add the spirulina: Add the blue spirulina powder and, using a whisk or, ideally, a milk frother, mix everything (note: you can also quickly blend it).
- Serve and enjoy: Pour the juice into glasses or jars with ice cubes and enjoy!
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PinBlue Spirulina FAQ
What’s the difference between green spirulina and blue spirulina?
Both green spirulina (often referred to as regular spirulina) and blue spirulina come from the same genus of blue-green algae, known as Spirulina. The primary difference between them lies in the pigments they contain. Green spirulina gets its color from chlorophyll, while blue spirulina gets its distinctive blue color from the phycocyanin pigment. That said, both have numerous benefits and are very similar, so it depends on which one you personally prefer.
Does blue spirulina contain heavy metals?
Depending on various factors like cultivation conditions, water source, and quality control measures in place during production, spirulina can include trace amounts of heavy metals. This is linked to its ability to absorb minerals from its environment, including heavy metals. That’s why the quality of the source and production practices are crucial in determining its safety. That said, heavy metal contamination is a concern for any food or dietary supplement, and regulatory agencies often set limits on acceptable levels of heavy metals in food products. Reputable manufacturers typically conduct rigorous testing to ensure that their products meet safety standards. To minimize the risk of heavy metal contamination, make sure you choose spirulina products from reputable and well-established brands. These companies often provide information on their product labels or websites regarding the testing procedures and quality control measures they implement to ensure the safety and purity of their spirulina products.
Is blue spirulina a dietary supplement?
Technically, blue spirulina is a food source, but since it can easily be consumed in both powder and tablet form and a little goes a long way, it is also sold as a dietary supplement.
Can dogs eat blue spirulina?
Blue spirulina is generally considered safe for dogs in small quantities. That said, before adding any new foods or supplements to your dog’s diet, be sure to consult your veterinarian first.
Is spirulina the same thing as spirulina platensis?
Yes, Spirulina platensis is a species of cyanobacteria, and “spirulina” is a common term used to refer to this specific species.
Is blue spirulina safe for pregnant women?
Yes, it’s generally considered safe to consume during pregnancy, but be sure to check with your healthcare professional first to be on the safe side.
How do I pick the highest quality blue spirulina?
Check the ingredient list to ensure it contains only blue spirulina powder (preferably organic) and no additional ingredients and look for reputable brands that undergo third-party testing for purity. Next, check the reviews (they should be as close to 5 starts as possible).
Does spirulina have a fishy taste?
No, it doesn’t! That said, it also doesn’t taste particularly tasty on its own, so make sure you mix it into sweeter recipes (or, if you only want the benefits without making a recipe, consume it in tablet form).
What else can you use blue spirulina for?
Other than for the healthy effects of spirulina, you can use blue spirulina for its vibrant color. It’s a great alternative to artificial food coloring in baked goods, for instance.
How do you store blue spirulina?
Once opened, store the package in a dry and cool place. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can also store it in the fridge, but make sure you place it in an airtight container first to avoid moisture absorption.
Are allergic reactions to blue spirulina common?
While allergies to spirulina can occur, they are generally rare.
Is blue spirulina safe to consume for senior citizens?
Yes! If you have any health concerns, however, be sure to always check with a trusted healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your diet.
PinMore Easy Juice Recipes & Articles
- How to Start Juicing: My Top 10 Tips (Article)
- Pink Dragonfruit Juice Recipe (with Candy Cane Beets)
- Watermelon Cherry Berry Beet Juice Recipe
- Apricot Peach Sweet Potato Juice Recipe
- Nama J2 Cold Press Juicer Review (Article)
- Iceberg & Pear Green Juice Recipe
Blue Spirulina Juice – Recipe Card
Save, pin, print, or share this green juice recipe via the recipe card below. For more details, ingredient notes, and substitutions, be sure to read the blog post above.
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Blue Superfood Juice (with Blue Spirulina)
5 from 26 votes
This cold-pressed juice is made with blue spirulina powder, perfectly blending it with fresh fruits and veggies for the ultimate refreshing superfood juice you can enjoy anytime!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Author: Kim-Julie Hansen
Servings: 3
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 Granny Smith apples or other green apples
- 6-8 celery stalks without the leaves (note: you can juice the leaves as well, but it might make the juice a little darker)
- 2 heads of baby romaine lettuce or 1 regular head of romaine lettuce iceberg or butter lettuce will work too
- 1-2 teaspoons blue spirulina powder the more you use, the darker the blue hue of the juice will be
Instructions
Wash the apples, celery and lettuce. If you’re using a juicer with a wide opening (like this one), then you can leave the produce whole. Otherwise, make sure you cut it into smaller pieces. (Note: if you’re concerned about juicing apple seeds, which can be toxic, the amount used here is too small to have any kind of negative effect, but you can, of course, cut the apples and remove the seeds first if you prefer).
Turn on your juicer, add the produce and watch the magic happen. Optionally strain the juice (I usually don’t!), then add it to a large pitcher.
Add the blue spirulina powder and, using a whisk or, ideally, a milk frother, mix everything (note: you can also quickly blend it).
Pour the juice into glasses or jars with ice cubes and enjoy!
Tried this recipe?Let me know how it was!
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