Confession time. I've never, ever had so much as a sip of a shamrock shake. This time every year, though, I receive multiple requests for a healthier, allergy-friendly version.
Based on the 50+ ingredients in the "real" thing, it's not too hard to clean it up. I've tweaked my recipe and method over the years, and think this is my best yet. Spinach and real mint give the shake its trademark green hue, and avocado boosts both the nutritional value and creaminess.
Hope you enjoy the minty goodness!
Paleo Minty Green Smoothie (aka Shamrock Shake)
1/2 ripe avocado
Frozen banana, cut into chunks
Handful baby spinach
Couple of fresh mint leaves
3/4-1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract
Splash of peppermint extract
Couple drops liquid vanilla stevia
Combine all ingredients in a blender until a smooth.
If you want a super creamy texture and "do" xanthan gum, add 1/4 tsp. added to the mixture. The texture is great without it too, though.