“Congratulations to Karen Gulkin on being our second week winner!” says Dennis Christou, VP of marketing, North America for Del Monte. “She certainly proves to be an aspiring chef with her winning taco recipe using Del Monte fresh avocados. We can’t wait to meet Karen in Miami, and look forward to seeing her in action as she competes for the grand prize and the coveted Del Monte Fresh Chef title.”

 

The contest, “Find Your Inner Chef,” encourages consumers to participate in a fun and fresh culinary experience, using their own favorite recipe or by creating a new recipe using Del Monte fresh fruits and vegetables. Daily prizes, including retail gift cards, culinary kitchen tools, and tabletop appliances may be won by participating in the online contest. 

 

“I’m so excited about making it to the finals!” says Karen Gulkin. “I entered one of my favorite recipes, Blackened Orange Steak Tacos with Citrus Guacamole using Del Monte fresh avocados. It’s always a family favorite. I want to thank everyone for their support through Facebook and Twitter and for voting for me. I can’t wait for this trip to Miami, where I know my recipe will bring the win to Colorado.”

 

There’s still plenty of time for consumers to participate. To enter the contest, all that needs to be done is to log onto Del Monte's Facebook page and “like” the page then complete the pop up registration form. After completing the registration form, a copy of their original healthy recipe along with photos utilizing Del Monte Fresh Produce products should be posted on the Del Monte Fresh Produce Facebook page. 

 

Just as Karen Gulkin was selected as the week two winner, after she posted her special recipe, her win was the result of the number of “likes" and tweets that gave her the opportunity to compete in Miami. There are two weeks remaining in the contest. Del Monte will announce the final winner nationally, and in their hometown.

 

The contest launched April 15 and ends June 15, 2013. Consumers must be 18 years of age to enter.