This Healthier Shamrock Shake is high in protein, low in sugar, and packed full of nutrients (and flavor)! When you’re wanting to enjoy a childhood favorite, but not experience the sugar crash, this recipe is perfect.
Check out my full video tutorial HERE.
‘Tis the season for a St. Paddy’s day classic, the Shamrock Shake! There’s something about celebrating the month with a minty shake that is so nostalgic! Sure, mint shakes are classic but for some reason, they’re better when they’re seasonal? I can’t explain it, but March is the time for basketball and Shamrock Shakes apparently 😂
Like many of the healthier versions of classic recipes, I like to focus on using whole-food ingredients without sacrificing the flavor we all know and love! This healthier Shamrock Shake has a great balance of carbs, fat, and protein to help keep blood sugar balanced and prevent a sugar crash.
The vanilla protein powder, vanilla, and mint extracts help hide the flavor of the banana so it really is just a thick, minty milkshake! Here are some tips for THE best ice-cream thick consistency:
- blend the milk and spinach first BEFORE adding the other ingredients. This is key to make sure you blend the spinach completely and aren’t left with any bits of leaves left over. We want our shakes to be smooooth!
- Add the milk in a little at a time as you blend. That way you can control the thickness a little more and can keep adding until your desired consistency!
I HIGHLY recommend adding chocolate chips on top for a mint, chocolate shake but feel free to add any other toppings for more texture! Adding texture (aka crunch) to your smoothies actually helps with digestion because it forces you to slow down and chew. Other great options could be Purely Elizabeth chocolate granola or Lil Bucks cacao granola.
What you’ll need to make this Healthier Shamrock Shake:
- Milk – I used canned coconut milk, but you can use dairy or dairy-free options!
- Spinach
- Banana – frozen.
- Date – for natural sweetness.
- Almond butter – or nut butter of choice.
- Vanilla protein powder – I love Sprout Living (discount code: callascleaneats) or Be Well by Kelly!
- Peppermint extract – a little goes a long way!
- Ice cubes
- Sea salt
- Chocolate chips – optional to stir in after blending, but highly recommend!
Other naturally sweet recipes:
Green Superfood Protein Smoothie (Gluten Free, Dairy Free)
Homemade Chia Jam (Paleo, Gluten Free, Vegan)
Paleo Banana Bread Muffins (Gluten Free, Dairy Free)
Healthier Shamrock Shake
Ingredients
- 1 handful spinach
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (canned) (or more/to desired consistency)
- 1 medjool date (pitted)
- 1 tbsp almond butter (or any nut butter)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 6 ice cubes
- couple drops peppermint extract (be careful, it’s VERY strong)
- pinch sea salt
Optional: chocolate chips for topping/stirring into your shake.
Instructions
- Blend milk and spinach first so that the spinach blends completely.
- Add the rest of the ingredients, blend, and enjoy!
- Top with chocolate chips or other crunchy toppings to add texture.