Lemon olive oil elixir
Lemon olive oil elixir is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by Jen Jones on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 15 min
Cost: $23.94 total, $11.97 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 Organic Lemon (Whole, washed thoroughly; peel is used for fiber and antioxidants)
- 3 cups Water (Cold or room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons Cold‑Pressed Olive Oil (Extra‑virgin, unrefined for maximum nutrients)
- 1 tablespoon Raw Unfiltered Honey (Prefer raw, unpasteurized honey for enzymes)
- 1 inch piece Fresh Ginger (Peeled and roughly chopped)
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adds warm spice after straining)
Instructions
Wash the Lemon
Rinse the organic lemon under cold running water, scrubbing gently to remove any wax or residue. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Time: PT2M
Prep the Ginger
Peel the ginger with the back of a spoon and cut a 1‑inch piece. Roughly chop it to help the blender process it faster.
Time: PT1M
Combine Ingredients in Blender
Add the whole lemon (quartered for easier blending), 3 cups water, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp raw honey, and the chopped ginger into the blender.
Time: PT1M
Blend Until Creamy
Blend on high speed for about 30‑45 seconds, until the mixture looks smooth and slightly frothy.
Time: PT2M
Strain and Finish
Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher or glass. Sprinkle ¼ tsp ground cinnamon on top and stir gently.
Time: PT2M
Serve
Pour into two glasses and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 150
- Protein
- 0 g
- Carbohydrates
- 8 g
- Fat
- 16 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, Paleo‑Friendly
Allergens: Honey
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Organic Lemon: Lime (will alter flavor)
- Instead of Water: Filtered water
- Instead of Cold‑Pressed Olive Oil: Avocado oil, MCT oil (different flavor)
- Instead of Raw Unfiltered Honey: Maple syrup (vegan), Agave nectar
- Instead of Fresh Ginger: Ground ginger (¼ tsp)
- Instead of Ground Cinnamon: Nutmeg (pinch)
Equipment Needed
- Blender
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- Measuring Cup
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy; under‑blending leaves pulp.
- Strain thoroughly to remove lemon peel and ginger fibers for a pleasant texture.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a warm (not hot) lemon if you prefer a milder flavor; warm lemons release more juice.
- For extra zing, add a pinch of cayenne pepper after straining.
- If you don’t have raw honey, use a drizzle of maple syrup for a vegan version.
Troubleshooting
The drink is too bitter or pulpy.
Blend longer and strain through a finer mesh or cheesecloth. Adding a little extra honey can balance bitterness.
The mixture separates after sitting.
Give it a quick shake or stir before drinking; the olive oil may rise to the top.
Blender overloads with the lemon peel.
Cut the lemon into smaller pieces and add a splash more water to help the blades move.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in a sealed glass jar for up to 24 hours. Shake before drinking.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture changes when frozen.
Room temperature: Best consumed within 2 hours at room temperature.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep the lemon and ginger a day ahead and keep them in the fridge; blend fresh when ready.
- The strained elixir can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; add fresh cinnamon before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of lemon olive oil elixirs in modern wellness culture?
Lemon‑olive‑oil elixirs have become popular in contemporary wellness circles as a simple, whole‑food drink that supports digestion and detoxification. While not rooted in a single traditional cuisine, the combination of citrus, healthy fats, and spices echoes ancient Mediterranean practices of using lemon and olive oil for health benefits.
What traditional regional variations exist for lemon‑based health drinks in Mediterranean cuisine?
In Mediterranean regions, lemon is often paired with olive oil in salads, marinades, and the classic “lemon‑olive oil dressing.” Some Greek households add a splash of honey and a pinch of cinnamon, similar to this elixir, to create a soothing tonic after meals.
How is the lemon olive oil elixir traditionally served in wellness communities?
It is typically served chilled in a glass, sometimes over ice, and consumed first thing in the morning or between meals to aid digestion and promote lymphatic flow. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds warmth and a pleasant aroma.
What occasions or celebrations is the lemon olive oil elixir associated with in health‑focused cultures?
The drink is often featured during detox weeks, wellness retreats, and as a morning ritual on “clean‑eating” days. It’s also popular as a post‑workout refreshment for athletes seeking natural electrolytes and anti‑inflammatory benefits.
What makes the lemon olive oil elixir special or unique in the broader American health‑drink landscape?
Its uniqueness lies in using the whole lemon—including the peel—for maximum fiber and antioxidants, combined with cold‑pressed olive oil for healthy fats, raw honey for natural sweetness, and ginger for digestive support. This synergy of ingredients is rarely found together in typical store‑bought detox drinks.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the lemon olive oil elixir?
Common errors include over‑blending, which can create a frothy texture that separates quickly, and neglecting to strain, leaving gritty lemon peel in the drink. Also, using too much honey can mask the bright lemon flavor.
Why does this recipe use cold‑pressed olive oil instead of a neutral oil like canola?
Cold‑pressed olive oil retains its natural polyphenols and antioxidants, which complement the lemon’s vitamin C and ginger’s anti‑inflammatory compounds. A neutral oil would lack these health‑boosting properties and alter the flavor profile.
Can I make the lemon olive oil elixir ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can blend and strain the drink a day ahead. Store it in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake before serving, and add fresh cinnamon right before drinking.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the lemon olive oil elixir is done blending?
The mixture should be smooth, slightly frothy, and uniformly pale yellow. There should be no large lemon peel pieces or ginger chunks visible. After straining, the liquid will be clear with a thin sheen from the olive oil.
What does the YouTube channel Jen Jones specialize in?
The YouTube channel Jen Jones focuses on quick, health‑focused recipes and lifestyle tips that make nutritious eating easy and accessible for busy people. Jen often shares “viral” wellness hacks, simple meal‑prep ideas, and natural remedy drinks.
How does the YouTube channel Jen Jones's approach to wellness cooking differ from other health‑food channels?
Jen Jones emphasizes ultra‑simple, ingredient‑minimal recipes that can be made in under 10 minutes, often using everyday pantry items. Unlike many channels that require specialty equipment, Jen’s tutorials rely on common kitchen tools and focus on practical, sustainable habits.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
