To juice with a Vitamix, blend your fruits and vegetables with water, then strain the mixture through a nut milk bag for smooth juice.
Want fresh juice without buying a juicer? Your Vitamix blender can make delicious, nutrient-packed juices in minutes. This guide covers everything from technique to recipes while maximizing nutrition and minimizing waste.
Vitamix Juicing vs. Traditional Juicers
While dedicated juicers like the best slow cold press juicer extract every drop, Vitamix juicing offers advantages:
- Uses equipment you already own
- Retains more fiber when unstrained
- Easier cleanup than most juicers
- More versatile (makes smoothies too)
Nutrition Comparison
Method | Fiber | Nutrient Retention | Oxidation |
---|---|---|---|
Vitamix (unstrained) | High | Excellent | Low |
Vitamix (strained) | Low | Good | Medium |
Cold Press Juicer | None | Best | Lowest |
Step-by-Step Vitamix Juicing
1. Prep Your Ingredients
- Wash all produce thoroughly
- Chop into 1-2 inch pieces
- Remove tough peels (citrus, pineapple)
- Keep soft peels (apples, cucumbers)
2. Layer Ingredients Properly
- Liquid base (water, coconut water)
- Soft fruits (berries, citrus)
- Hard vegetables (carrots, beets)
- Leafy greens (kale, spinach)
3. Blend Strategically
Start on low speed, gradually increasing to high. Use the tamper to push ingredients toward blades. Blend for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth.
4. Strain (Optional)
For clearer juice:
- Nut milk bag (easiest)
- Fine mesh strainer
- Cheesecloth
Pro Tips for Better Vitamix Juice
Maximize Nutrition
- Add citrus peels for extra bioflavonoids
- Include ginger or turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits
- Use frozen fruit to reduce oxidation
Reduce Waste
Save pulp for:
- Vegetable broth
- Baking (muffins, breads)
- Compost
Top Vitamix Juice Recipes
Morning Energizer
- 1 apple
- 2 carrots
- 1″ ginger
- 1/2 lemon (peeled)
- 1 cup water
Green Detox
- 2 celery stalks
- 1 cucumber
- 1 cup kale
- 1 green apple
- 1/2 lemon (peeled)
Beet Boost
- 1 medium beet
- 1 orange (peeled)
- 1″ turmeric
- 1 cup coconut water
Cleaning Your Vitamix After Juicing
- Rinse immediately after use
- Fill halfway with warm water
- Add drop of dish soap
- Blend 30 seconds
- Rinse thoroughly
For stubborn stains, blend baking soda and water. The best juicer and easy to clean options follow similar principles.
When to Choose Blending Over Juicing
Consider making smoothies instead when:
- You want maximum fiber
- Preparing meals for kids
- Need longer-lasting energy
For smoothie lovers, check out the best blender for smoothies recommendations.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Too Thick?
Add more liquid (water, coconut water, almond milk) 1/4 cup at a time
Not Sweet Enough?
Add ripe banana, dates, or honey
Separating?
Blend longer or add emulsifier like chia seeds