Bite Of Minnesota: St. Patrick's Day Smoothie

A few weeks ago, my 8-year-old niece told me she's Irish and asked if I am Irish too.

Quickly, I responded, "everyone's a little bit Irish," which deserved the confused look she gave me.

While she might have thought I was crazy, it's a relatable phrase as St. Patrick's Day approaches and celebrations ensue.

That little conversation got me thinking about St. Patrick's Day recipes and after scouring my recipe database and coming up empty, I realized it's not a holiday I celebrate.

I'd rather be drinking green smoothies than green beer, and I can't remember the last time I had a shamrock shake, although I do hear they are quite good.

Instead, I'll plan on whipping up this mint-cocoa nib smoothie as a treat while I spend the night in. A friend introduced me to this smoothie, and it is so refreshing! I find myself craving it, and it surely fills the void of that mint chocolate chip ice cream I keep forgetting to buy.

Mint Cocoa Nib Smoothie
(2 servings)

3 cups spinach
1 1/2 cup almond milk
1 frozen banana
1/2 avocado
2 rounded tbsp cocoa nibs
2 tbsp mint leaves (8-10 leaves)
Handful of ice
Maple syrup to taste

Combine spinach and almond milk in a blender and process until smooth. Add remaining ingredients and blend. Add additional maple syrup as needed. Pour into glasses, add a straw, and serve.