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.
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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 ;)
Shamrock Shake Recipe Tips
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).
Protein Packed Shamrock Shake
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup frozen spinach
- 1/4 banana - frozen (if possible)
- 1 tbs. raw cashew pieces
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 scoop vanilla vegan protein powder
- 1 medjool date
- 1/2 tsp. peppermint extract
- 1 tsp. chia seeds
Instructions
- In a personal blender or a regular blender add ingredients in this order: spinach, frozen banana, cashews, coconut milk, protein powder, date, peppermint extract then chia seeds.
- Blend until fully combined.
- Option to top with coconut whipped cream (So Delicious Coco Whip is an awesome option).
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Nutrition Information
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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?
Kendra @ www.joyinourhome.com
Thanks so much for sharing this Sam! I love Shamrock Shakes, but like you, I don’t like all the unhealthy ingredients! Going to try this… featuring it at our party tomorrow! Hope to see you there again :)
Elaine
Thanks or sharing on My 2 Favorite Things On Thursday!! Hope you come back!! love having!! Pinned!
Marissa
Thanks for the recipe! I am always looking for something new :)
Jen
Yummy! I love adding spinach to my smoothies too. Gotta make sure that I get my greens in! I love my vitamix blender, but I love those ninja blenders too!
Valerie
Sounds and looks really good!
Sabrina @ Nutritiously Sweet
I never had a Shamrock Shakes but I always see healthy versions and whatnot, must taste good! I’ll have to give it a go. Love your addition of cashews :)
Shannon
I love the mint chocolate combo! This looks amazing.
Amanda @ .running with spoons.
I’ve never had a shamrock shake (mostly because of the eerily long list of strange ingredients), but this is a recipe that I could totally get behind! I keep meaning to add peppermint to my smoothies but somehow never get around to it. Love this recipe!
Sam
I’m with you on the crazy ingredients! THought of you with the dates and no peanuts!!! Hope you enjoy Hawaii!!
jill conyers
Yummy mint! I’ve never made a shamrock shake and it’s time to change that.
Sam
Jill I hope this is a new green smoothie you love!!
Nicole @ Foodie Loves Fitness
I have been totally obsessed with mint lately! I keep making chocolate mint protein shakes (SO GOOD! Love using peppermint extract) and eating chocolate mint fro yo. Also, I have a Ninja blender and I love mine too!
Sam
OMG Chocolate mint – the best ever!!! Going to have that tomorrow, so good
Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes
I love anything with mint! I make a similar shake with kale and avocado! So yummy!
Sam
Sue I love the thought of avocado!! Oh I’m certainly going to try that! Thanks so much for the tip!!
Brynn
My favorite smoothie addition lately has hands down been dates! I love that you added some into this smoothie, they are perfectly sweet and add and awesome texture to the smoothie. Yum!
Sam
Brynn, yes dates are seriously a game changer!! Love them, so glad you do too!
Michaell @ Foodscape
I love mint! I also love the study you posted…I think next time I have a long drive, I’m going to take this Shamrock Shake with me! Tasty and calming!
Sam
Oh Michaell, that’s such a great idea, I drink mine on the way to work – helps me not get so angry in the morning lol! Thanks for stopping by!
Jess @hellotofit
Mm, I love mint-flavored drinks/ice cream, unless the mint is SUPER overpowering. This looks delicious! And so much better than a Shamrock Shake from Mickey D’s…