Beet juice has a beautiful deep red color, but its earthy taste can be a little strong if you drink it on its own. Adding apple and lemon makes a big difference. The apple brings natural sweetness, while lemon gives the juice a fresh, slightly tangy finish.
This beet juice recipe uses just three main ingredients. It's a simple combination for anyone who wants to enjoy fresh beetroot juice without making it taste too much like raw vegetables.
Ingredients for Beet Juice
Makes about 1 large glass.
- 1 medium fresh beetroot (about 120–150 g)
- 2 medium sweet apples
- ½ lemon
Choose firm, fresh beetroot with smooth skin. Smaller beets are a good choice if you prefer a milder flavor.
For the apples, Fuji or Gala works particularly well. They add enough sweetness to balance the beetroot without needing extra sugar.
Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled lemon juice if possible. You can adjust the amount depending on how tangy you like your juice.
How to Make Beet Juice
- Wash the beetroot and apples thoroughly. Trim the ends of the beetroot and remove the apple cores.
- Cut the beetroot and apples into pieces suitable for juicing.
- Juice the beetroot and apples, then squeeze in the lemon juice.
- Stir well and taste. Add a little more lemon if you prefer a sharper flavor.
Serve immediately, preferably chilled.
How to Make Beet Juice Taste Better
The biggest challenge with beet juice is its earthy flavor. The right fruit combination can make it much easier to enjoy.
Beet and apple: This is the combination used in this recipe. Apple softens the strong beet flavor and adds natural sweetness.
Beet and orange: Orange gives beet juice a brighter, sweeter citrus taste. Replace one apple with one peeled orange if you want something more refreshing.
Beet, apple, and carrot: Add one small carrot for a naturally sweet vegetable combination. If you enjoy this flavor, you may also like our carrot apple juice recipe.
Beet and lemon: If your juice tastes too earthy or heavy, a little extra lemon can help balance it. Add it gradually rather than squeezing in the whole lemon at once.
If you're making beet juice for the first time, start with the recipe above before experimenting with other combinations.
Should You Peel Beetroot Before Juicing?
Peeling beetroot is optional. The skin is edible, but it can hold dirt, especially around the root and rough areas.
Wash and scrub the beetroot well before using it. Remove any damaged parts and peel it if the skin is particularly rough or you prefer a cleaner flavor.
For a smoother-tasting juice, many people prefer to peel it first.
How to Store Fresh Beet Juice
Beet juice is best enjoyed shortly after making it. If you have some left over, pour it into a clean, airtight bottle and refrigerate it promptly.
For the best flavor, try to drink it within 24 hours. The color may settle or separate naturally, so give the bottle a gentle shake before serving.
Avoid leaving fresh juice at room temperature for long periods. For more storage advice, see our guide to how long fresh juice lasts in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you juice raw beetroot?
Yes. Fresh beetroot can be juiced raw. Just wash it thoroughly, trim the ends, and remove any damaged areas before juicing.
Why does beet juice taste earthy?
Beetroot naturally has an earthy flavor. Some people enjoy it, while others find it too strong. Adding sweet apples, oranges, or a little lemon juice can make the taste more balanced.
What fruit goes best with beetroot juice?
Apple and orange are two of the easiest choices. Apple adds sweetness, while orange gives the juice a brighter citrus flavor. Lemon is also useful for balancing the earthy taste.
Can I add sugar to beet juice?
You can, but most people don't need to. Sweet apples or oranges usually provide enough natural sweetness. Taste the juice first before deciding whether it needs anything extra.
How much beetroot should I use for one glass of juice?
One medium beetroot is a good starting point for one large glass when combined with two apples. If you find the beet flavor too strong, use a smaller beetroot next time.