Protein Packed Shamrock Shake

Shamrock Shake just got a make over and I think you are going to love it. I just loved these minty shakes that are so popular this time of year, but I don’t love the long list of ingredients or crappy nutritional value of these classics. So we are remaking this classic into a healthy protein packed version you can enjoy all year long! It’s no longer a once a year treat! Woohoo!

I love using peppermint extract, its very refreshing and one of my favorite flavors. What I’ve found is that it needs some healthy fats paired with it to make sure you don’t get smacked in the face with peppermint! So we are using my favorite fat from raw cashews to help make sure this doesn’t happen to you! Not many, just a tablespoon of chopped cashews will do the job! Vegan protein powder is my go to way to pack protein in this shake but you could also use whatever your favorite vanilla protein powder is for similar results.

No crazy green food coloring in this gorgeous green shake, thanks to frozen spinach. Yup, who needs food coloring when your food is already electric green itself! I’m a huge fan of drinking green smoothies, so this is right up my alley! I chose spinach because it has the least “green” taste and it really does a great job of getting lost in the background. Bananas add sweetness and a bit of creaminess, but if you cannot tolerate bananas, add another large medjool date (pitted) to naturally sweeten this shake.

There has been a study that showed a correlation between peppermint and alertness, concentration, and motivation. Perfect way to start the day!

Peppermint also satisfied cravings and has been shown to help curb food cravings, which explains why mints can be effective ways to end a meal. If you are anything like me you are going to take this as a reason to have more peppermint ice cream after meals 😉

This healthy shamrock shakes comes together in just a few minutes. It’s easy to quickly measure out your ingredients and throw them in the blender as you go. I’ve found that layering your shake a certain way makes my blender do a better job of chopping everything, and I’ll share that with you! I add the frozen greens and bananas first, then the nuts, then the milk and protein powder. This does the best in my single serve blender. But do what works best for you!

Dave and I both have ninja blenders (affiliate link) and we couldn’t recommend them more. They are quite affordable and really do an awesome job of pulverizing everything! I never have to chew my smoothies!

Be sure to give yourself a break and celebrate this St. Patties day (and maybe everyday leading up to St. Patty’s day too!). This shake is great on the go in the mornings or is also a great post workout shake (add a few tablespoons of rolled oats for additional carbs if needed).

What about you?

• Have you ever had a shamrock shake?
• What kind of blender do you use? Single Serve or Traditional?
• What is your favorite addition to a smoothie?

Check out the link parties we’re part of today!