St. Patrick's Day Recipes

In the United States, it is traditional to wear green on St. Patrick's Day — or be pinched for not wearing green. Chicago is even famous for dyeing the Chicago River green for a few hours each St. Patrick's Day.

In Ireland, however, the color was long thought to be unlucky. Irish folklore says that green is the favorite color of the Good People, or the fairies. The legend says that if people, especially children, wear too much green, the "Good People" are likely to steal them.

Even if it's not traditional, going green on St. Patrick's Day is just plain fun for kids and adults alike. Try these green recipes on the Irish holiday to add some luck to every meal.

Breakfast

• "Green Eggs and Ham"
• Apple and Avocado Smoothie
• Creamy Oatmeal

Lunch or Dinner

• Green Goddess Slaw
• Green Risotto
• Mashed Potatoes

Desserts and Drinks

• Green Chocolate Slimedoo
• Limeade
• Lime Sherbet Punch
• Pistachio Ice Cream
• Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies with Ice Cream

Green Garnishes

Can't get enough of the lucky color? Add these green ingredients and garnishes to your food — or your alcoholic beverages. To make green beer, add one drop of green food coloring for every 12 oz. beer. The lighter the beer, the more the color will show through.

• Crushed mint leaves


• Crème de menthe liquor


• Lime zest


• Lime sherbet


• Lime-flavored gelatin


• Mint or pistachio ice cream


• Green olives


• Cucumber


• Celery