This Juice with Chia Seeds recipe is delicious, satisfying, and much better for blood sugar control and weight loss than plain juice. Chia seeds slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream and add protein, fiber, and omega 3s to this refreshing juice.
Plus, this chia seed juice lasts up to four days in the refrigerator. It's the perfect post-workout refreshment, healthy snack, or party drink! Add some fresh mint for garnish and serve this at your summer pool parties, barbecues, and picnics.
Did you know that watermelons are high in citrulline which may help to reduce erectile dysfunction, as well as help with muscle soreness after working out? Plus, this study found that those eating ground chia experienced a significant reduction in waistline, and lowered their C-reactive protein levelsโsuggesting an anti-inflammatory effect, as well.
This recipe was inspired by my Lemon & Ginger Tea ice cubes, as well as this Cranberry Water recipe with no added sugars.
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๐ฉ๐ผโ๐พ Ingredients
- Watermelon contains about 92% water, which makes it an excellent hydrating food. It's nutrient-rich and is a good source of antioxidants, including lycopene, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. These compounds help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, certain cancers, and inflammation. Watermelon is relatively low in calories and naturally cholesterol-free.
- Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, providing both soluble and insoluble fiber, which supports digestive health, regulates blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness. They are also a source of plant-based protein and contain all nine essential amino acids. Chia seeds can absorb large amounts of liquid, forming a gel-like consistency. This property can help maintain hydration. This is especially beneficial when you are physically active.
- Lime juice adds a slight tang, and citrusy quality to this watermelon drink recipe.
- Fresh mint brightens the flavor and adds a herbal freshness.
- Add a dash of Tajin if you have some on hand. It is a popular Mexican seasoning blend known for its unique flavor profile. It is primarily made from a combination of chili peppers, lime, and salt.
See the recipe card for quantities.
๐ Substitutions
- Watermelon - instead of watermelon, try adding gelled chia seeds to cantaloupe, apple, orange, or a different fruit juice of your choice
- Lime - use lemon zest and juice instead and make a watermelon lemonade
- Tajin - Tajin is the perfect seasoning for fresh fruit. Add some to this juice for a kick.
- Tequila or white rum - add a splash of alcohol as desired
- Mint - omit as desired
- Salt - add a pinch for more flavor
See this naturally sweetened Chia Cocoa Pudding on my website.
๐ How to Make Juice with Chia Seeds
Step 1. Gel the chia seeds: Add the chia seeds to 2 cups water. Mix well. Set aside for 10 minutes. Stir frequently so they evenly gel.
Step 2. Scoop the watermelon (or fruit of your choice) and transfer it to a blender.
Step 3. Blend the watermelon with the lime zest, lime juice, and mint until smooth.
Step 4. Pour the gelled chia seeds into the blender with the watermelon juice. Pulse a few times until ground and evenly incorporated.
๐ก Expert Tips
- Use a standard 4-ounce ice cream scoop (#8) to remove the watermelon flesh for ease! Or cut it into 1-inch cubes.
- Stir the chia seeds frequently in the water so they gel evenly. Don't use expired seeds as they will fall to the bottom and not gel well.
- Find a good quality watermelon. Watermelon juice is only as good as the melon you use! Yellow watermelons have four times as much citrulline!
- Storage: Refrigerate any remaining watermelon drink in a pitcher with a lid, or in a thermos, for up to 4 days. Stir before serving.
๐๐ฝโโ๏ธ Recipe FAQs
Yes! Use two-thirds the amount of ground chia seeds as whole seeds. For this Watermelon Juice with Chia Seeds, mix 3 tablespoons of ground chia seeds into the blended juice and stir well until fully dissolved.
Watermelon juiceย is rich in lycopene โ a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrient along with flavonoids and carotenoidsย that make it a top choice amongst fruits in the fight against damaging free radicals. You can also use fresh cantaloupe juice, apple juice, orange juice, or a preferred juice of your choice. Store-bought juice will also work.
No. A regular blender works perfectly well. Make sure to use a seedless watermelon or fruit of your choice, or remove the seeds and core before blending.
Chia seeds are rich in soluble fiber, which absorbs liquid and forms a gel-like consistency in the stomach. This gel can help increase feelings of fullness and satiety, potentially reducing calorie intake and preventing overeating. This refreshing juice with chia seeds beverage can be consumed throughout the day, potentially helping to curb appetite and support hydration. However, it's important to keep in mind that a balanced diet is the healthiest and that chia water should not be relied upon for weight loss.
๐ฝ Related Recipes
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๐ Recipe
Juice with Chia Seeds
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Ingredients
- ยผ cup chia seeds
- 6 packed scoops seedless watermelon or 4 ยฝ cups of 1-inch cubes (about one-half of a small mini watermelon)*
- Zest and juice of one-half lime
- 6 large mint leaves
- Dash of Tajin seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Gel the chia seeds: Add the chia seeds to 2 cups water. Mix well. Set aside for 10 minutes. Stir frequently so they evenly gel.
- Scoop the watermelon: Slice the watermelon in half. Using a 4 oz scoop (or standard #8 ice cream scoop), scoop chunks of watermelon into the blender. Discard the rind. Or cut the watermelon into 1-inch cubes and add 4 ยฝ cups to a blender.
- Blend: Add the lime zest and juice, and mint to the blender. Blend until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the gelled chia seeds into the blender with the watermelon juice.ย
- Pulse a few times until ground and evenly incorporated.
Notes
-
- Use a standard 4-ounce ice cream scoop (#8) to remove the watermelon flesh for ease! Or cut it into 1-inch cubes.
- Stir the chia seeds frequently while they form a gel so they gel evenly. Don't use expired chia seeds as they will fall to the bottom and not gel well.
- To make this with pre-ground chia seeds, read the FAQs above in the blog post.
- Find a good quality watermelon. Watermelon juice is only as good as the melon you use! Yellow watermelons have more citrulline!
- Substitute the watermelon for papaya, apple, canteloupe, or a different fruit of your choice.
- Storage: Refrigerate any remaining watermelon juice with chia seeds in a pitcher with a lid, or a thermos, for up to 4 days. Stir before serving.
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Nutrition
This information is provided as a courtesy and is an ESTIMATE only. Varying factors such as product types or brands purchased can change the nutritional information in any given recipe.
Deb says
If you use bottled juice, how
much should one use?
Nisha Melvani, RDN says
About 16 ounces of juice.
Rebekah H says
Made this today and itโs very refreshing. I didnโt have mint so I used fresh Ginger, about 1/4 inch and it was good. Will try the mint next time.
Nisha Melvani, RDN says
Ooohh love the addition of ginger! Thank you!!!
Neena Chandiramani says
So good for you and delicious ๐ too!
Nisha Melvani says
It's so refreshing too! Thank you.
Primla Goddard says
So refreshing! The chia seeds add the protein, fiber and omega 3s ! Awesome combination!
Nisha Melvani says
Thank you. It's very refreshing! Tastes even better the next day!