My sister-in-law asked me what my favorite green smoothie recipe was, and with no hesitation, I answered, “Shamrock Shakes!” Okay, so it may not be St. Patrick’s Day, and there’s no ice cream so these aren’t technically shakes, but my kids love this shamrock smoothie recipe so I’m sharing them with you.
The nice thing about these smoothies is it’s a simple way to get the kids to eat their spinach! And it’s quick to make. Just toss in the ingredients and blend!
Ingredients
- 1 frozen banana (if the banana is not frozen, put in a couple more ice cubes)
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach
- ¼ cup fresh mint (approx. 10 leaves)
- 6 ice cubes
- ¾ cup almond milk (or you can substitute your choice of milk for different textures or taste)
- You can add ¼ teaspoon good vanilla extract if you choose.
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the banana, spinach, mint leaves, ice, vanilla and almond milk. Blend until smooth. Add more almond milk as needed for desired consistency.
- Pour into a glasses and serve.
OPTIONAL:
My kids add their own twist, which includes coconut cream and caramel drizzle on top…
I prefer to have spinach on hand for many different recipes, and I think it is a great reminder to the kids to eat healthy. They get so excited when I pull out the spinach, and ask with anticipation, “Are we having Shamrock Shakes today?”
I don’t remember being excited about spinach when I was young, but it makes me feel proud when I see the look on their faces when we buy greens. The kids especially like buying fresh mint, and picking off the leaves, and dropping them into the blender. It’s a fun way to spend time as a family and enjoy something that is healthy.
Dr. Pound, This sounds like a great alternative to a “not so healthy snack or meal” I am going to try this, and if all goes well with the kids and I, the next step is to grow my own mint! Sounds like a project. Now then, if I can just get beyond the green color. I never grew up being a fan of spinach either Popeye cartoon was quite popular back then but I still wasn’t a believer, I will however eat it in a salad. Never too late ! Thanks for the great idea. Can’t wait to try it with my granddaughters.
I can relate with the Popeye cartoon!