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.
Date Night Easy Tomato and Garlic White Wine Pasta

Serving Amount
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
5 cup cherry tomatoes
1 tsp oregano
1⁄2 tsp red pepper flakes, or to taste
3 tbsp fresh basil plus a few leaves for garnish
1⁄3 cup dry white wine such as pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc
2 cup pappardelle pasta, cooked
Salt and pepper to taste.
2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1
In a large pan over medium-low heat, heat olive oil and add garlic. Sear until fragrant.
Step 2
Add tomatoes, oregano and red pepper flakes, and turn the heat up to medium. Allow tomatoes to sear until some water is released, about 5 minutes. Add white wine and basil. Allow to simmer.
Step 3
Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. For al dente (hard to the bite), cook for a minute less than the package instructions.
Step 4
Reduce temperature to medium-low on the pasta sauce and allow the sauce to reduce until desired texture. Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss with pasta, serve in pasta bowl, grate parmesan on top and add basil for garnish.