While I’ve always believed in indulging in unhealthy treats every once in a while (especially on holidays), I also love finding recipes that feel like an indulgence, but are actually healthy! (Especially for kids when you are trying to avoid that sugar overload!)
If you are thinking of heading to McDonald’s to get one of their Seasonal Shamrock Shakes, just know you can save yourself 460 calories and 63 grams of sugar by making it yourself! Keep in mind that 63 grams of sugar is the equivalent of eating ~ 16 teaspoons of sugar! YUK!
This recipe uses natural ingredients to get its green hue (instead of dangerous food dyes), and has NO refined sugar!
Note- If you can’t get on board with spinach in a smoothie, you can opt for a small amount of green food coloring, or just drink a white peppermint shake (which is just as delicious!)
Ingredients
- 1 overripe large frozen banana
- cacao nibs or chocolate chips, as desired
- 1/4 tsp pure peppermint extract
- 1-1/2 cup milk of choice (see below for suggestions)
- optional, 1/4 cup frozen spinach
- optional , add ~1/8 tsp salt to bring out the flavor
- 2 Tbsp Whipped Topping of choice (if desired)
Instructions
Milk options- Feel free to use your favorite milk of choice. Canned coconut milk will give it a rich milkshake like taste, and almond or cashew milk will provide a lighter shake.
To make the shake: Blend all ingredients in a blender until completely smooth. Make sure the banana you use is at least somewhat brown, so you don’t get that unripe banana flavor! You can add the chocolate chips either before or after blending. Be sure to use pure peppermint extract, not imitation.
Top with whipped topping as desired can add more chips on top! Enjoy!
Janaelle Humberd, Registered Dietitian, LDN
Certified Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant / Health Coach