These Pineapple-Ginger-Turmeric Shots combine anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich ingredients to help support a healthy immune system. Tropical notes from pineapple, coconut water and orange juice make up the base of these shots, while ginger, turmeric and black pepper infuse their warm, earthy undertones. A little bit of lemon juice helps balance the flavors. Keep reading for our expert tips, including what ingredient substitutions you can make.

Tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen

These are the key tips we learned while developing and testing this recipe in our Test Kitchen to make sure it works, tastes great and is good for you too! 

• To extract the maximum amount of juice from a fresh orange, roll it on the countertop while applying gentle pressure, then use a citrus juicer or press if you have one.
• We chose a mix of pineapple and orange juice because it balances the sharpness and spiciness of turmeric and ginger.
• If you prefer juice without pulp, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve. However, keep in mind that straining it will reduce some of its nutritional benefits.
• Feel free to use any flavored coconut water you like, and you can also blend in different fruits such as peaches, apricots, apples or strawberries. Additionally, adding spinach or kale can boost the nutrient content of your juice.

Nutrition Notes

• Pineapple is loaded with essential nutrients, like vitamin C, antioxidants and fiber. Pineapple also contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps your gut with digestion.
• Orange juice contributes more immune-supporting vitamin C to these shots. While this recipe calls for fresh-squeezed OJ, if you choose to use store-bought, get it fortified to add calcium and vitamin D to these shots.
• Coconut water adds small amounts of minerals that also act as electrolytes—potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium. It’s also been linked to a myriad of health benefits, from supporting blood sugar and blood pressure to reducing cell damage and improving digestion. 
• Ginger and turmeric are similar in their health benefits. They’re both known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Both of these spices also support heart health and may reduce cancer risk. Because turmeric has low bioavailability, it must be consumed with black pepper, which increases its absorption into the body—so be sure to include the black pepper in these shots.