Shanthi Appelö is a registered dietitian and health and wellness spokesperson for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan based in Detroit. Passionate about the science of nutrition and behavior, Shanthi has experience working in clinical nutrition, public health and teaching in the university setting. She earned her Master of Science in Public Health Nutrition from the University of Tennessee and has a research background in maternal and child health nutrition and public health, as well as a Certificate of Training in Obesity Interventions from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, exploring the outdoors, working on art and spending time with family.
Higher Protein Spinach Artichoke Dip

Serving Amount
Ingredients
1 cup whole milk cottage cheese (4%)
2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
10 oz. can artichokes
12 oz. frozen spinach, defrosted and thoroughly drained
1 5. oz can water chestnuts, finely chopped
4 oz. light cream cheese
3⁄4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1⁄4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
2 garlic cloves
1 Tbsp. dried basil
2 tsp. onion powder
salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1
Blend cottage cheese in a blender until smooth.
Step 2
In a large bowl, add all ingredients and mix until well combined.
Step 3
Serve with veggie crudites, crackers or baked chips.