MISSION, KS -- (Marketwire) -- 03/07/13 -- (Family Features) St. Patrick's Day is often an excuse to enjoy a little too much rich, calorie-heavy food. But there's no reason you can't enjoy celebrating with healthier food and drinks.

Since green is the color of St. Patrick's Day, add some naturally green foods to your menu. Green fruits and vegetables give you important nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, folate, fiber and phytochemicals. A diet rich in green produce can help reduce the risk of some types of cancer, promote healthy vision, and keep your bones and teeth strong. Some great greens to try fresh, in a new dish, or in a healthy beverage:

• Kiwi
• Edamame
• Arugula
• Avocado
• Broccoli and broccolini
• Leeks
• Spinach
• Kale

Whether it's a nourishing morning pick-me-up or a mid-day energy and immunity boost, these nutritious and delicious recipes from NutriBullet will help you raise your glass to some healthier options. The NutriBullet emulsifies healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables and grains into their most easily digestible state, which allows your body to absorb up to 95 percent of the vitamins and minerals. Get more information and great tasting recipes at www.nutribullet.com.

Shamrock Shake
          Large handful of kale
1/4       avocado
1/2       banana
1/2       cup green grapes
1         green apple (cored and seeds removed)
1         teaspoon chlorella powder
          Dash of cinnamon (optional)
          Add coconut water or plain filtered water up to the MAX line

Place all ingredients in the NutriBullet large cup, screw on Extractor blade, and blast.

Breakfast Tea Time
          Handful of spinach
1/2       lemon
1/2       cup Irish breakfast tea (brewed and chilled)
1/4       cup almond milk
1         tablespoon raw honey
1         banana

Place all ingredients in the NutriBullet large cup, screw on Extractor blade, and blast.

Irish Cream
1         cup vanilla almond milk
1/2       cup brewed coffee (chilled)
2         dates (pits removed)
1         teaspoon vanilla extract
5         mint leaves
          Handful of hazelnuts

Place all ingredients in the NutriBullet large cup, screw on Extractor blade, and blast.

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