Posted by Florida Dept. of Citrus on April 28, 2008 at 11:13:42:
Florida Grapefruit Announces Winners of How Sweet is Your Love Recipe Contest
Grand Prize Spicy Grapefruit-Glazed Sea Scallops Impresses Judges with Dazzling Flavors
LAKELAND, Fla., April 28 -- Home chef Caitlin Keys, of Winston-Salem, N.C., was awarded top honors in Florida Grapefruit's national "How Sweet is Your Love" recipe contest for her original Spicy Grapefruit-Glazed Sea Scallops, an easy-to-prepare zingy seafood delight. As the grand prize winner, Keys will receive a $1,000.00 cash prize and a three-night, four-day culinary-inspired trip to Palm Beach, Fla.
During her grand-prize getaway, Keys and a guest will have the opportunity to prepare bold-tasting, healthy recipes with "Skinny Chef" Jennifer Iserloh and the Dean of Culinary Education at the Florida Culinary Institute.
Among judges' other favorites were the second place Sun-Spiced Shrimp and Grapefruit Lettuce Wraps, submitted by Shannon Kohn of Simpsonville, S.C., which earned a $500.00 cash prize. This light, tangy-sweet dish infuses a splash of citrus for a bold kick of flavor.
Third place honors and a $250.00 cash prize were awarded to the irresistible Coconut-Macadamia Crusted Chicken, Grapefruit and Avocado Salad, submitted by Emily Hobbs of Ozark, Mo.
Enhancing Nutritional Value of Recipes with Superfoods
Experienced and home chefs alike are turning to superfoods to enhance their recipe's nutrition and flavor. These antioxidant-rich gems from the fruit, vegetable, whole grain, legume, nut and fish categories provide a substantial number of nutrients in proportion to total calories to help maintain good health. One of Florida's tastiest superfruits, grapefruit contains less than 100 calories per serving and can increase the antioxidants vitamin C and lycopene (in pink or red varieties) in recipes.
According to "Skinny Chef" Jennifer Iserloh, cooking with superfoods is one of the simplest ways to naturally support a healthy immune system and improve long-term well-being from the inside out.
"It's beneficial to experiment in the kitchen by swapping out the not-so-healthy ingredients in favorite recipes for nutrient-dense substitutes, which can help to improve the flavor of dishes while actively benefiting the body," explains Iserloh.
Demonstrating the versatility of Florida grapefruit, amateur chefs marveled at the chance to create a unique recipe including either one serving of fresh Florida grapefruit (half of a grapefruit) or 8-ounces of 100 percent grapefruit juice. An expert judging panel consisting of chefs from the Florida Culinary Institute and "Skinny Chef" Jennifer Iserloh tasted and rigorously graded recipes on creativity, nutrition, visual appeal and ease-of-preparation.
To amplify the flavor and nutrition of a springtime meal, try recreating the grand prize Spicy Grapefruit-Glazed Sea Scallops:
Spicy Grapefruit-Glazed Sea Scallops
Makes 4 servings
1 cup 100% pink Florida grapefruit juice
1/3 cup sweet Asian chili sauce
12 sea scallops
1 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 pink Florida grapefruit, segmented
1 cup shredded carrots
1 green onion, chopped, optional
In a medium-sized saucepan, bring grapefruit juice and chili sauce to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the mixture is reduced by half, stirring occasionally. Meanwhile, season scallops on both sides with salt and pepper to taste. Cook scallops in a pre-heated nonstick skillet over high heat for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side, or just until cooked through. Arrange grapefruit segments and carrots on 4 individual serving plates. Top with scallops. Spoon sauce on the side or drizzle over scallops. Garnish with green onions, if desired. Cook's Note: Shrimp may be substituted for the scallops.
To view additional winning recipes and get ideas for creating your own grapefruit-inspired dishes, visit the new home for Florida grapefruit at http://www.GoFloridaGrapefruit.com.
About The Florida Department of Citrus
The Florida Department of Citrus is an executive agency of Florida government charged with the marketing, research and regulation of the Florida citrus industry. Its activities are funded by a tax paid by growers on each box of citrus that moves through commercial channels. The industry employs more than 76,000 people, provides a $9.3 billion annual economic impact to the state, and contributes hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenues that help support Florida's schools, roads and health care services. For more information about the Florida Department of Citrus and the health benefits of orange juice, please visit: http://www.floridajuice.com.
Website: http://www.GoFloridaGrapefruit.com/
Website: http://www.floridajuice.com/