So St. Patricks Day has come and gone but it always reminds me of the Shamrock Shake they have each Spring at McDonalds, which I slurped up as a child as often as my mom allowed it (read: probably fewer times than I could count on one hand but clearly it made a big impact). Now an adult, I find it a bit scary to think how much junk goes into that fluorescent green shake and wondered whether it would be possible to re-create it using natural ingredients, with my kids still enjoying a wholesome alternative. A total bonus! Also, this smoothie has 18 grams of protein per serving – yippee!
Well, allow me to introduce you to this recipe…which was a hit in our home:
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk (whatever you like)
- 1/2 cup plain greek yogurt
- 1/4 avocado, pitted
- 1 handful fresh spinach
- 1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 5-6 soft dates, pitted
- handful of ice
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients in a high-speed blender, and blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness to taste, if necessary, and serve immediately.
- *A quick note: the image used in the post contained less cocoa than I ended up including in the recipe so don't be confused if your is less GREEN than mine!
Notes
296 calories, 14 grams fat, 42 carbs, 8 grams fiber, 16 grams protein
TOTAL: $1.95 per serving – less than you’d spend at McDonalds and far better for you!
Want more recipes incorporating DATES?
Gorgonzola Stuffed Dates with Prosciutto
