For those of you in the United States, the words "green milkshake" might conjure thoughts of the seasonal shamrock-variety. Other than the hue, this recipe has little in common with the fast-food version. Sunshine, bike rides, and outdoor runs have me craving refreshing foods. This green milkshake is a wonderful way to start the day full of energy.
I grew up with blenders that couldn't chop ice any better than a hand mixer, and perhaps as a result I have long coveted fancy blenders like Vitamix. But, working within my grad student budget, I recently began to look into lower-end models. I decided to try my luck with a $15 model from Hamilton Beach and I couldn't be happier. Now I just hope the motor lasts more than a season.
Green Milkshake
Ingredients
1 Tbl chia seeds
1 Tbl organic flaxseed oil*
1/2 Tbl organic wheat grass powder*
1 handful of organic spinach leaves (no need to trim thick stems)
1 banana
1/2 C hormone-free milk
Ice
Method
Add the ingredients in the order they appear above. Blend until smooth. Serve immediately. I like to use organic products for this recipe, but I generally don't go out of my way to buy organic bananas.
*These ingredients are optional. For flaxseed oil, I use Barlean's. For wheat grass powder, I use Amazing Grass. These items are a pricey initial investment, but they will last you quite a while.
I too have jumped on the green shake/smoothie bandwagon, and I'm loving it. Kale every day! Hooray!
Posted by: shannalee | March 28, 2011 at 22:24
I have this same blender - it's great, but if you give it something it doesn't like or it has a hard time blending, it will produce this weird smoky smell... so beware! But it has lasted for a year and a half :)
Posted by: Hannah | March 29, 2011 at 13:16
Shannalee, I haven't moved up to kale yet. I'll give it a try next week!
That is good news Hannah - thank you! I can stand a bit of a smokey smell if the blender lasts more than a few months.
Posted by: Gemma | March 29, 2011 at 16:02
i make something similar to this- but i add a 1/4 cup pineapple and 1/2 cup mango for a tropical twist! i use peach juice instead of milk (also good for those non-dairy folks out there).. and freeze the fruit so i dont need to add ice. turns out the most lovely color. yummy yummy green shakes!! thanks for this recipe!
Posted by: Mandapants | March 29, 2011 at 18:38
Yum yum. I've been adding pureed pumpkin to my green smoothies lately. SO GOOD. P.s your carrot and white bean post from January looks heavenly!
Posted by: Kelsey, from Happyolks | March 29, 2011 at 20:23
Do the chia seeds, flax seed oil and wheat grass powder add flavor, or are they included only/primarily for the health benefits?
Posted by: Anita | April 06, 2011 at 14:56
I like your twist on it Mandapants!
Thank you Kelsey! I am looking forward to trying out your pumpkin puree suggestion.
Hi Anita, the flaxseed and wheat grass are primarily for the health benefits. The chia seeds, while beneficial, also add a great texture to the shake. If you haven't used chia seeds before, I'd compare them to tiny tapioca balls. They suspend in the shake and add something that I enjoy. Great question!
Posted by: Gemma | April 06, 2011 at 20:40
Thanks for this great recipe. I've been trying out green drinks lately and can't wait to try this one!
Posted by: Suzanne | April 09, 2011 at 16:26
Thanks Suzanne, I hope you like it. I've had one nearly every morning since I posted this recipe. I highly recommend starting your day with one!
Posted by: Gemma | April 21, 2011 at 11:10
Would try this green milkshake. Thanks a lot!
Posted by: Jo | April 27, 2011 at 13:51
You are welcome Jo!
Posted by: Gemma | June 15, 2011 at 11:49
This is new recipe for me and i must try it. Thank you
Posted by: Aspirateur Industriel | November 16, 2011 at 19:50