You would think we were Irish with the way the kids have been acting today.  They are fully decked out in green – they even found green beads to wear around their neck, and green hair accessories.  They pretty much hate green every other day of the year.  Last night they asked if I would make them green pancakes for breakfast with green milk – why not?  I told them if they made their beds in the morning, I would – now, call me crazy, but I actually think a leprechaun came in and did it for them – I found notes on their night stands…

After making green shamrock pancakes for breakfast and turning their milk green, I started getting in the spirit – and looked at that ripe avocado on the counter.  I asked the girls if they wanted green smoothies in the afternoon, and of course I got a resounding “yes.”  I remembered a while ago I saw some recipes in the Pacific Northwest Magazine about Avocado Milkshakes – so I went searching.  It was hard to decide which one to make, but I went with the Indonesian version – boy does an avocado make a smooth milkshake – it was velvety.  If you like avocados, these milkshakes were delectable with just the right amount of sweetness.  You would have sworn you were eating ice-cream it was so good.  The kids on the other hand were not too impressed.  They are not big avocado fans, so I wasn’t expecting much – but they at least had a few sips.  This was definitely my treat.  I didn’t add the espresso since I don’t drink caffeine, but I am sure it would be delicious.

So – I hope you are all celebrating your inner-Irish today – whether you are Irish or not – and this milkshake will put a little hop in your step, just like a little leprechaun.

Ingredients

• 1 medium avocado
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1/3 cup cold espresso and/or a drizzle of chocolate syrup
• 2/3 cup milk, or as needed
• 1/3 cup superfine sugar or simple syrup, or as needed
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation

Halve the avocado lengthwise and scoop the flesh into a blender, discarding the pit.  Add the remaining ingredients and blend until completely smooth.  Taste and add more sugar if desired, and/or a little more milk for a thinner consistency.  Serve immediately, with a straw and spoon.

For a printer-friendly version of this recipe, please click here: Indonesian Avocado Milkshake