Homemade Bloody Mary Mix with Turmeric and Black Pepper

It’s pretty rare that you can use the words “healthy” and “cocktail” in the same sentence, but this healthy Bloody Mary is an exception to the rule. Packed with fresh veggie juice and herbs, the mix also contains the dynamic duo of black pepper and turmeric—which, when combined, are thought to be anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and memory-improving.

There are even studies that suggest black pepper augments turmeric’s cancer-prevention qualities. A little healthy fat, in this case olive oil, helps carry it into your blood via the small intestine. Turmeric on its own, or mixed into an almond milk “tea,” can even help beat the blues and insomnia.

Obviously no cocktail is good for you if you overdo it, but luckily tomato juice is great for dehydration and hangovers. (So you’re essentially repairing your body as you imbibe, right?) If you use fresh tomatoes, you’ll avoid the extra sodium and additives that are found in most brands of tomato juice or Bloody Mary mix. A little bit of fresh carrot juice adds vitamin A, and cuts the acidity of the tomato. (You could also try juicing bell peppers, beets, cucumbers or pretty much any veggie.)

Try it without the alcohol, too—a Bloody Mary can be an easy way to get antioxidants and minerals if you’ve been slacking in the fresh-vegetable department lately. Think of it as a drinkable veggie tray!

If you like your Bloody Mary spicy, simply add a few drops of your favorite hot sauce. We all know the garnish is half the fun, and those can be healthy, too. Try one of these, or get creative with whatever’s in the fridge!

• Lime or lemon wedges and a celery stick (especially great if you’re making your drink spicy)
• Sprigs of parsley, rosemary or cilantro
• Pickled anything (green beans, carrots, asparagus, etc.)
• A caprese skewer with a cherry tomatoes, basil leaf and small ball of mozzarella
• Turkey jerky for a bit of protein
• A piece of the kids’ string cheese (trust me on this one)

Photos by Ana Stanciu

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