I’m sure many of you have seen the ads, articles, etc. saying that a McDonald’s Shamrock Shake has 54 ingredients, 73 grams of sugar and 530 calories….a serving. Which is kind of insane, if you ask me. I had a Shamrock Shake once in college (mostly because a friend was shocked I never had one and insisted I try one). It definitely wasn’t for me – there was WAY too much sugar and anything with tons of preservatives, artificial flavors and food coloring has a tendency to freak me out (more so now than it used to). So, when this time of year rolled around again, I was motivated to craft a “healthier” Shamrock Shake with the same flavor and green color as McDonald’s drink. However, I will say that my FAVORITE version of this shake also incorporates a little bit of peppermint gelato. It’s heaven! The most interesting part of this shake (in my opinion) is the Spirulina powder, which gives it the rich green color. Spirulina is a cyanobacterium (blue-green algae). I know – eating algae may sound a little creepy! But, it has a TON of health benefits. Did you know it’s the most nutrient dense food on the planet? It’s also packed with a ton of antioxidants and omega-3s. However, before using any supplement type product in your food, double check it doesn’t interact with any medications you take. It’s definitely an interesting take on the Shamrock Shake, but I guarantee you it’s super delicious! Enjoy! 🙂

Makes 1 Shake

*Note – remember to freeze the banana beforehand*

Recipe by © Alysha Melnyk 2018

Kitchen Tools:

Liquid Measuring Cup

Measuring Spoons

Dry Measuring Cups

Blender

Ingredients:

*Disclaimer – I am including certain brand names of things I use (just because they are personal favorites of mine), but feel free to use whatever brand you like, is the cheapest, is on sale, what you have on hand, etc.*

1 Banana, Cut into Pieces and Frozen

1/2 Cup Milk of Choice (I used Whole Milk)

1/4 Cup Greek Yogurt (I used Fat Free Yogurt)

1/4 Teaspoon Pure Peppermint Extract

1/2 Teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract

1/2 Cup Baby Spinach

1 Teaspoon Natural Sweetener (I used Honey)

1 Teaspoon Spirulina Powder

1/4 Cup Frozen Dessert of Choice (Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream, Gelato, etc. – my favorite is peppermint gelato!)

1 Teaspoon Raw Cacao Nibs (For Topping)

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients in the blender (except raw cacao nibs) and blend until smooth.
2. *If you want a more icy consistency (this was a thick but smooth drink), add some ice cubes.
3. Top with raw cacao nibs.
4. Enjoy cold! 🙂