For so many, the return of March and McDonald’s much-loved Shamrock Shake to “honor” the month, is a highly anticipated moment each year. Deliciously minty, wonderfully creamy, and a shade of green that could make Mother Nature jealous, this once a year treat tends to be a must-have for many around the country. Like most “special” menu items, this one packs a major non-nutritional punch. The smallest size, which, let’s be honest, is probably the lowest seller, comes in at over 500 calories, 73g of pure sugar, no fiber, and no iron. Oh, and a healthy helping of food dye, as well. On the highest end, the large contains over 800 calories and 115 g of sugar! That lovely shamrock shake syrup? High Fructose Corn Syrup, Corn Syrup, Water, Sugar, Preservatives, and Yellow and Blue Dye – and that’s just the syrup! Don’t get me started on the whipped cream, ice cream, or maraschino cherry!
Ok, so what’s a Shamrock Shake Fanatic to do?! Well, today, I bring you a homemade, available year-round, HEALTHY version of the beloved Shamrock Shake. Not only does this mean you can actually make this shake a daily part of your routine (or two times a day; we won’t judge!), but you can do so with a feeling of complete satisfaction because it’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your health! At only 300 calories, all natural sugars, nearly 9 grams of fiber, and almost 20% of your daily iron needs (not to mention a plethora of other nutrients!), this homemade version can keep the Irish spirit alive year-round.
Shaken Up Shamrock Shake
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (you can use cow’s milk, but it will up the calories a bit)
¼ avocado, pitted and skin removed
2 cups (about 2 good handfuls) of fresh baby spinach
¼+ tsp peppermint extract (taste as you go and add more as desired)
2 Medjool dates, pits removed
½ - 1 Tbsp maple syrup (depending on your desired sweetness level)
ice as needed to reach desired consistency
Add all ingredients to the blender in the order listed. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness and peppermint as needed. Add ice as desired. Blend. Enjoy!
Adapted from Detoxinista.com; Originally posted for CoreLifemd.com
Shaken Up Shamrock Shake
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (you can use cow’s milk, but it will up the calories a bit)
¼ avocado, pitted and skin removed
2 cups (about 2 good handfuls) of fresh baby spinach
¼+ tsp peppermint extract (taste as you go and add more as desired)
2 Medjool dates, pits removed
½ - 1 Tbsp maple syrup (depending on your desired sweetness level)
ice as needed to reach desired consistency
Add all ingredients to the blender in the order listed. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness and peppermint as needed. Add ice as desired. Blend. Enjoy!
Adapted from Detoxinista.com; Originally posted for CoreLifemd.com