This healthy Shamrock Shake recipe is so perfect for St. Patrick's Day. It's super easy to make and works for breakfast OR as a little mid-afternoon pick-me-up! You will want to make this mint smoothie over and over again.
Today's recipe is a fun one. I'm actually not sure why I have never shared any smoothie recipes on here, because we actually make quite a lot of smoothies around here. But this isn't just any mint smoothie. It's a healthy Shamrock Shake, just in time for St. Patrick's Day!
Speaking of St. Patrick's Day and minty goodness, if you're a fan of these mint smoothies, you have to try my peppermint cupcakes!
Obviously, this is not going to be a copycat because let's face it -- it's not a milkshake. There's no ice cream in it. And I'm throwing some good-for-you ingredients in there. But it's still Just As Tasty! And it's green. And minty. So we're going with it 😉
I like to include protein powder in our smoothies just because it gives the shake a bit more substance and makes it more filling. It's totally optional so, if you'd rather, you can omit the protein powder and don't have to substitute it with anything.
Jump to:
What Is A Shamrock Shake?
First things first, I realize you may not even know what I'm talking about. So let's take a step back. Shamrock Shakes are basically bright green milkshakes made popular by McDonald's. It's a seasonal drink that is available around St. Patrick's Day.
A classic Shamrock Shake from McDonald's is made with vanilla soft serve ice cream and some sort of minty syrup. Mine is very different, so it's not a copycat Shamrock Shake, but still such a festive and delicious way to celebrate. So let's get right to it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Well for starters, you can enjoy this recipe year-round. You don't need to worry about when Shamrock Shakes come back or how long they're available.
- As the name would suggest, this is really a healthy recipe. This mint smoothie does not include any corn syrup or other funky ingredients.
- It's creamy, minty, and so delicious. My husband, who is not a big fan of spinach (or green juice in general), was skeptical but it only took one sip to change his mind.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Spinach: I typically make these shakes with frozen spinach, because it's easier to buy some and keep in the freezer for smoothies, but you can also use fresh spinach.
- Peppermint extract: Make sure it's peppermint and not mint, which tastes more like spearmint).
- Milk: Feel free to use any milk you like or have on hand, including dairy free alternatives such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
- Greek yogurt: My favorite yogurt to use here is plain Fage 0% but any yogurt will work! You can even use a vanilla flavored yogurt.
- Protein powder: This is our favorite protein powder, but it's totally optional.
- Chocolate: I love topping these Shamrock Shakes with chocolate shavings! I use milk chocolate but anything goes. You can also do whipped cream or mix in chocolate chips.
Expert Tips
- You can totally adjust the amount of honey based on your preference. I found that one tablespoon was perfect to add just a subtle hint of sweetness to the shakes, but you can add more.
- The same goes for the peppermint extract. I think the amount I've specified here is honestly the perfect amount, because anything more than that would be overpowering, but this is a very forgiving recipe and you can definitely make adjustments based on your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can go ahead and use your favorite plant-based milk and dairy-free yogurt. I haven't tried this myself, so please let us know in the comments if you do!
Yes! Feel free to freeze any leftovers in popsicle molds or freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Related Recipes To Try
Did you make my healthy Shamrock Shake? Leave me a comment below or tag me on Instagram @justastastyblog and #justastastyblog!
📖 Recipe
Healthy Shamrock Shake
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240ml) milk*
- 1 large banana
- ½ cup spinach fresh or frozen
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 scoop vanilla or chocolate protein powder* optional
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into a blender and blend until completely smooth.1 cup (240ml) milk*, 1 large banana, ½ cup spinach, 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon honey, ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract, 1 scoop vanilla or chocolate protein powder*
- Optional: top with chocolate shavings and/or a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to use any milk you like or have on hand - can be whole milk, dairy free, fat free, non-dairy, etc.
- This is my favorite protein powder to use but use whatever you like!
Amanda says
Do you know the macros to this recipe?:)
Taleen Benson says
I don't, sorry!
Lori says
Just made using peppermint essential oil. Might be better with extract but loving the mint this March 1st!
Used unflavored protein powder. Doubled to share with my son so we could each have full protein scoop’s worth of protein.
Taleen Benson says
I'm so glad to hear you enjoyed it, Lori!