DIY Life

A new juice bar just opened in our neighborhood. They serve any blend of fruit and veggie juice that you could imagine. They use fresh, organic ingredients, and present the drink in a trendy, branded cup.

For this, you'll pay $5.50. Seriously, for blended carrots, I just can't.

Vegetable juices are popular on health detox and other cleanses, but they taste great too, and can be a healthy part of an everyday diet.

To make this carrot juice, you don't need a juicing machine; any food processor or blender will do just fine. You'll find more information after the break.

The directions are straightforward: blend the carrots, add hot water, strain the mixture, and let it stand. Optional steps include adding sugar or fresh orange juice. The orange juice adds great flavor, and, in my opinion, renders the sugar unnecessary.

Carrot is one of my favorites, but I don't see myself drinking it daily. If you're looking for a drink that's a bit more adventurous, here are some other great recipes:

• Apple celery juice
• Tomato juice
• Red pepper juice
• Cucumber juice

As the weather gets nicer, I know I'll enjoy experimenting with homemade fruit and veggie juices on my back deck, instead of shelling out $5.50 per cup at the local juice bar.