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.
Healthy Nacho Cheese Sauce for Loaded Nachos
Serving Amount
Ingredients
1⁄2 cup 2% or 4% milkfat cottage cheese
11⁄2 oz block cheddar cheese, shredded (do not use pre-shredded cheese, as it has a non-sticking agent that may cause the cheese to separate)
2 tsp. taco seasoning
1 tsp. garlic powder
Salt to taste
4 cups tortilla chips
2 Roma tomatoes, finely diced
1⁄4 sweet onion, finely diced
1⁄4 cup pickled jalapenos
1⁄4 cup cilantro
Shredded chicken (optional)
Instructions
Step 1
In a microwave-safe bowl, add cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, taco seasoning, garlic powder and salt to taste. Stir and microwave for 1 minute, until all is melted and easily mixes. Microwave for an additional 30 seconds if needed.
Step 2
Add the cheese mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender until the sauce is smooth and runny, ensuring no curds from the cottage cheese remain.
Step 3
Assemble tortilla chips on a large platter or oven pan. Drizzle the cheese sauce over the chips and top with tomatoes, onions, pickled jalapeños and cilantro. Serve with shredded chicken if desired.
