Wheatgrass juice: better than energy drinks

Wheat or barley grass planted in a pastel tray is a popular decoration for Easter. But what do you do with it after the holiday? Instead of throwing it out, use it in a smoothie or juice it. What grass and barley are a great source of energy and filled with vitamins, minerals, and life-giving chlorophyll. It really comes alive when you drink it, so take it before exercise or first thing in the morning.

1. Cut a few handfuls of grass about a centimeter above the ground
2. If you use a blender, mix it with water to your desired thickness.
3. Wheatgrass can be juiced directly as an energy shot

You can drink wheatgrass juice directly as a shot or blended with water in a smoothie, but the taste is very strong. If you prefer, you can add it to fruit or vegetable juice to make it more palatable.

A classic version is to mix wheatgrass with orange, pineapple, and apple, but don't be afraid to try other combinations. It also goes well with pure vegetable juices. Here's a racipe we really like:

• Handful of wheatgrass
• 2 lettuce leaves of your choice
• 1 stalk celery
• 4 carrots

Using a juicer, first juice the the celery and letuce. Then alternate carrots with wheatgrass. If using a blender, just mix all the ingredients with water and blend at high speed until smooth.

Caution: Don't pick baby wheat or barley that has been commercially planted, as it may have been treated with chemicals.