Ari’s Shamrock Smoothie (Healthy Shamrock Shake Alternative)
Ditch the artificial Shamrock Shake and try this healthy, homemade alternative! Made with fresh mint, bananas, matcha, and greens, in a creamy, antioxidant rich drink!
Ditch the artificial flavors and make this vibrant, nutrient-packed Shamrock Smoothie instead! This creamy, minty green smoothie is a fun and festive way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day—without all the sugar and food coloring. With natural sweetness from bananas, a fresh minty kick, and an optional boost from matcha, this smoothie is a delicious and nutritious alternative to the classic Shamrock Shake. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Star Ingredients
1. Bananas (Frozen)
Bananas are the base of this smoothie, giving it a creamy texture and natural sweetness without needing added sugar. They’re packed with potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and fiber to support digestion. Freezing the bananas makes the smoothie extra thick and frosty, mimicking that classic shake texture!
2. Fresh Mint
The star of the show when it comes to flavor! Mint adds a refreshing, cooling taste that makes this smoothie feel like a true Shamrock Shake. It also aids digestion, helps reduce bloating, and provides a natural energy boost.
3. Spinach
This leafy green is responsible for the vibrant green color—no artificial dyes needed! Spinach is rich in iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, making this smoothie as nutritious as it is delicious. It blends in seamlessly without overpowering the flavor, so even green-skeptics will love it!
4. Matcha (Optional)
Matcha adds a subtle earthy flavor and an extra antioxidant boost. It’s rich in catechins, which support metabolism and overall health. Plus, it contains a gentle dose of caffeine for a natural pick-me-up!
5. Vanilla Ice Cream (Optional Topping)
A small scoop of vanilla ice cream makes this smoothie feel extra indulgent—perfect for those craving a milkshake-like experience. If you want to keep it dairy-free, opt for a plant-based version!
6. Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds) & Granola (Optional Topping)
Pepitas add crunch, protein, and magnesium, making this smoothie even more satisfying. Granola brings texture and a hint of sweetness for the perfect finishing touch.
Chef’s Note
This smoothie is versatile; you can add or swap ingredients as you see fit.
For a Sweeter Smoothie: Add dates,
Alternative to spinach: Try kale or even baby salad greens.
To reduce carbs: substitute banana for peeled zucchini or yellow squash. This is a low-carb vegetable that It takes on the flavor of the smoothie and gives a boost in fiber
Not a fan of matcha? Try spirulina, liquid chlorophyll or moringa powder. Each has great antioxidant properties and gives your smoothie a boost of color without compromising the taste.
Recipe
Ari’s Shamrock Smoothie
Makes 1 large or 2 small servings
Ingredients
3 bananas, frozen
1/2 cup mint
1 tsp matcha (optional)
Ice optional
1/3-1/2 cup plant based milk
1-2 cups of spinach, separated
1-2 scoops vanilla ice cream, pépitas and granola for topping (optional)
Directions
1. In a blender, combine bananas, mint, matcha (if using) ice and milk. Blend until smooth. Pour half of the smoothie into a separate up and set aside.
2. Add spinach to the remaining smoothie and blend until smooth. This will darken the color of the drink and give you the second half of your layers.
3. In a cold glass or jar, carefully pour 1-2 oz of smoothie 1, holding the glass at an angle. Repeat with smoothie 2, and alternate layers until you get a stripe effect with your smoothie.
Top with scoop of ice cream, granola and pepitas if using. Enjoy!
Meal Prep Tips
• Freeze your bananas ahead of time for a thicker, creamier smoothie. I almost gives the texture of ice cream.
• Make it protein-packed by adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder or even oats
• Prep in advance by blending the smoothie and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Or pour into ice cube trays and freeze for an easy prepped don’t smoothie. Shake well before drinking!
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