Skip the drive-thru and try this delicious alternative to a St. Patrick's Day favorite.

It's that time of year again. Fast food giants have released their St. Patty's Day inspired shakes - green food coloring and all. For some, the Shamrock Shake has become an annual tradition. But just how unhealthy is this ode to the Irish? Chew on this: one large shake is 820 calories, 22 grams of fat, and 115 grams (29 teaspoons) of sugar!

You would have to do 90 minutes of jogging at 5 mph, 70 minutes of playing basketball, 80 minutes of swimming laps, or just over 120 minutes of walking at 3.5 mph to burn that many calories off, according to Harvard Health.

Makes you think twice - right? No wish upon a clover can make that fact disappear.

Instead of stopping by the drive through, try making a deliciously nutritious homemade Shamrock Smoothie! This recipe is much lower in calories and richer in nutrients. The avocado creates that beloved creamy, silky base of a milkshake and provides 7 grams of fiber, while the bananas provide sweetness, and the mint/spinach gives this drink a festive green color!

Recipe: Shamrock Shake Recipe (serves 2)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• 1½ - 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 bananas
• ½ avocado
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions: Blend spinach, mint, and almond milk and blend. Add remaining ingredients, and blend until smooth. Enjoy!