Most Romantic Recipe Contest calls for Valentine's Day strawberry recipes

88 percent of the strawberries grown in the United States come from California, and 50 percent from right here in the Silicon Valley area: Watsonville, Salinas, Santa Cruz.

PRNewsFoto/California Strawberry Commission

So it's only fitting that the competition to showcase sweet ways to use strawberries in Valentine's Day recipes should originate with the Watsonville-based California Strawberry Commission.

The prizes in the recipe contest for "Most Romantic Valentines Day Dish" (aside from bragging rights about how romantic you can cook) are: Amazon gift cards: First Place - $500, Second place - $350, Third Place - $150. Winning recipes will be featured on the California Strawberries website for all to enjoy.
 
How to enter the Valentine's Day recipe contest: 

1. Submit recipe online at the California Strawberries Recipe Submission Page by Friday, February 4th, 2011.
2. Upload the recipe photo at: California Strawberries Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/castrawberries).  Be sure to  include recipe name and the words "Most Romantic Recipe Contest."

Contest Rules:

• Eligibility – Must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years and older.
• Online Submission Deadline – Friday, February 4th, 2011
• Prizes – $500, $350, $150 Amazon Gift Cards will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd.
• Who can enter? – Anyone who enjoys cooking and food bloggers of all levels are invited to participate.
• Criteria –The dish must include fresh or frozen strawberries. It could be for any meal of the day and be categorized by main course, salad, side dish, appetizer or dessert. Additionally, it should have a romantic quality. Visual appeal, taste, creativity and ease of preparation will also be considered in the judging.
• Judging – Winning recipes will be selected by the California Strawberry Commission staff. Particular consideration will be given to recipes submitted with clear and creative photos. Further attention will be given to recipe photos that receive the most comments or "likes" on the California Strawberries Facebook page. Contestants are welcome to invite friends to "vote" for their photos.

Get Inspired!
For a little sweet inspiration, visit California Strawberries' recipe pages for romantic and alluring recipes such as Souffle Omelet with Balsamic Strawberries or Chocolate Dipped Strawberries!