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.

Classic Fresh Salsa

A party is never truly complete without the classic and timeless charm of salsa. This flavorful dip is made with ripe tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a bit of heat from jalapeños, creating a perfect taste of summer as it nears its end. Not only is salsa delicious, but it's also a nutritious powerhouse, filled with vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh ingredients. It's a low-calorie option that pairs perfectly with whole-grain baked tortilla chips.
Serving Amount
Ingredients
  • 6 Roma tomatoes, diced

  • 1 jalapeño, seeds removed, chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves

  • 12 red onion, diced

  • Juice from 1 lime

  • 14 cup cilantro, chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
  • Step 1

    Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic clove and allow to toast on both sides, until lightly browned. Allow to cool then finely chop.

  • Step 2

    In a bowl, add all ingredients. Stir and allow flavors to develop for 15 minutes before serving.

A Healthier Michigan is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
No Personal Healthcare Advice or Other Advice
This Web site provides general educational information on health-related issues and provides access to health-related resources for the convenience of our users. This site and its health-related information and resources are not a substitute for professional medical advice or for the care that patients receive from their physicians or other health care providers.
This site and its health-related information resources are not meant to be the practice of medicine, the practice of nursing, or to carry out any professional health care advice or service in the state where you live. Nothing in this Web site is to be used for medical or nursing diagnosis or professional treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed health care provider. Always consult your health care provider before beginning any new treatment, or if you have any questions regarding a health condition. You should not disregard medical advice, or delay seeking medical advice, because of something you read in this site.