Follow the rainbow to a pot of nutrition with this vibrantly green, heart-healthy smoothie. While traditional drive-thru Shamrock Shakes are famous for their minty flavor and artificial green dyes, this version relies on fresh spinach and tropical fruits to deliver that festive hue.
This recipe offers a refreshing twist on the holiday classic. Instead of peppermint and heavy cream, you get a tropical burst of frozen mango, pineapple, and creamy coconut milk. It is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and sweet enough to feel like a treat without the sugar crash. Whether you are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just looking for a delicious way to eat your greens, this smoothie is the perfect pick-me-up.
Still craving that traditional peppermint flavor? Just see our variations to make it minty. And don't miss our other healthy smoothie recipes!
This smoothie transforms a typically indulgent, high-sugar dessert into a nutrient-dense meal or snack. By using whole fruits like mango and pineapple, you get natural sweetness along with essential fiber, rather than relying on refined corn syrups. The "green" color comes entirely from fresh spinach, providing a significant boost of vitamins without using artificial food coloring.
No. The sweetness of the mango, pineapple, and banana completely masks the flavor of the greens. It tastes like a creamy tropical drink, making it a great option for picky eaters.
Yes! The base recipe is tropical, but you can easily shift the flavor profile, as described in our Flavor Variations. Simply add a small amount of peppermint extract (start with 1/8 teaspoon) and vanilla extract. You might also omit the pineapple to let the mint shine through more clearly.
Coconut milk contains saturated fat, which some heart patients monitor closely. However, it provides a rich texture that mimics a milkshake. For a strictly low-saturated-fat version, substitute with soy milk or almond milk and add a little avocado for creaminess.
You can, but the texture will be more like a juice than a thick shake. If you use fresh fruit, add a cup of ice cubes to the blender to achieve that frosty consistency.
These tasty, energizing blends are perfect for a quick breakfast or healthy pick-me-up snack, and are filled with healthful ingredients like leafy greens and vitamin-C packing fruits.
Recipe yields 2 servings
In a blender, combine the spinach and coconut milk. Purée until smooth.
Add the mango, pineapple and banana and blend until smooth.
If you are watching your saturated fat intake or want a lighter option, swap the canned coconut milk for unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. The texture will be slightly less creamy but still delicious.
Kale is a great alternative if you want a heartier green. Remove the stems and blend it with the liquid first to ensure it is fully smooth before adding the fruit.
If you don't have both, you can double up on one or the other. Frozen peaches or green grapes also work well in green smoothies without ruining the color.