Mint Smoothie (Healthy Shamrock Shake)

This creamy mint smoothie (aka healthy shamrock shake) is protein-packed and tastes like dessert! Blend it up in 5 minutes with wholesome ingredients for a naturally sweet treat.

As someone who’s written over 50 easy smoothie recipes, I’ve got a new favorite: this mint smoothie! I created it in the spring as a healthy shamrock shake and discovered a magic combination: cottage cheese, spinach, mint extract, and Medjool dates blend into a treat reminiscent of those iconic mint green milkshakes! It might sound weird, but it actually works.

The bright color makes it fun as green food for St. Patrick’s Day, but I actually love it eating it any time of the year. Even my kids who aren’t huge spinach fans absolutely love it! Even my husband Alex (who is generally wary of “healthy” copycat recipes) took one sip and immediately asked me to make more.

5 Star Reader Reviews

“I LOVE this recipe! Yes a very little mint goes a VERY long way. Yum!!” -Maureen

“Ok, yummmmmmm!! What a genius idea to use dates in this smoothie! This is so delicious and perfect for spring. We LOVED this!” -Tanvee

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why we love this recipe—and we hope you’ll agree! This mint smoothie is:

Quick and easy: Blend everything up in just 5 minutes!
Protein-packed: Cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein to keep you satisfied.
Healthier alternative: Enjoy the classic shamrock shake flavor with all nutritious ingredients and natural sweetners!
Versatile: Enjoy it as a festive St. Patrick’s Day breakfast or dessert, a post-workout protein boost or afternoon snack

What You Need

This mint smoothie is a little non-traditional when it comes to our smoothie recipes: it’s mostly cottage cheese with Medjool dates for a natural sweetener. In our recipe testing, we found that typical smoothie ingredients like banana or even fresh mint didn’t produce the right flavor here. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cottage cheese: The secret ingredient that creates a creamy, protein-rich base.
Medjool dates: These natural sweeteners add caramel-like flavor and provide fiber along with essential minerals.
Fresh spinach: The nutrition powerhouse that gives this smoothie its festive green color without affecting the flavor.
Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that adds depth of flavor.
Peppermint extract: The star ingredient that delivers that classic mint flavor!
Ice cubes: Ice is essential for the thickness in this smoothie.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Mint Smoothie

You can scroll right down to the recipe to make it, but here are a few notes and pro tips first:

Medjool dates are key: Their caramel-like sweetness perfectly complements the mint flavor without imparting a fruity flavor (like bananas). If your dates are very dry, soak them in warm water for 5 to 10 minutes before blending.
Cottage cheese tip: If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese texture, this smoothie is perfect because blending makes it completely smooth. The protein content is higher than using yogurt.
Blend in stages: Starting with the main ingredients before adding ice helps create the perfect smooth texture.
Peppermint extract warning: A little goes a long way! Start with the recommended amount and add more only in tiny increments if needed.
Sweetener adjustments: Taste before adding a bit of additional sweetener if desired.

Ways to Switch It Up

This mint smoothie tastes great as is: here are a few ways to mix it up!

Chocolate mint version: Add 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips and pulse once to combine.
Protein-boosted option: Add a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder.
Avocado mint smoothie: Add ¼ of an avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
Coconut mint: Use coconut milk as your milk of choice and add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened shredded coconut for tropical flavor.
Vegan mint smoothie: Substitute the cottage cheese with silken tofu or plant-based yogurt and use your favorite plant milk.

Storage Tips

This mint smoothie tastes great immediately after making. Store for up to 1 day refrigerated; shake before serving.

Dietary Notes

This mint smoothie is vegetarian and gluten-free. For dairy free and vegan, substitute the cottage cheese with silken tofu or plant-based yogurt and use your favorite plant milk.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this mint smoothie ahead of time?

While best enjoyed immediately, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The texture may change slightly, so give it a quick stir or shake before drinking.

I don’t have peppermint extract. Can I use fresh mint?

We don’t recommend using fresh mint here: the flavor tastes grassy and not minty (we tried it!).

Is this appropriate for kids?

Absolutely! The sweet minty flavor masks the spinach completely, making it a hit with children. You may want to start with slightly less peppermint extract for very young palates.