Show your culinary creativity in the “Seeds to Supper” recipe contest

The City of Dallas is accepting submissions of unique, delicious recipes for its “Seeds to Supper” summer recipe contest from now until June 18. Participants who come out on top will have the chance to win their own at-home indoor garden or a year’s worth of plant pods for growing lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, herbs and more.

“We’ve seen a strong interest in cooking demonstrations, gardening and healthy living programs over the past year,” said Vanessa Conley, program specialist for Dallas Public Library. “A recipe contest is a great way to generate interest in the delicious, fresh produce available during the summer.”

To enter, recipes must consist of at least two of the following ingredients: basil, tomato, or any kind of lettuce. Children or adults may enter the contest, and contestants are limited to two recipes each. The panel of judges will evaluate the recipes based on creativity, use of ingredients, ease of cooking and health benefits.

“Many of our residents struggle with having reliable access to produce, so the emphasis for this contest is on ingredients that are easy to grow at home,” said Assistant Director of Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability Susan Alvarez. “For families struggling with food insecurity and deserts, at-home indoor or outdoor gardens are becoming one way to ensure easy access to healthy eating.” OEQS is also leading efforts to develop the City’s first urban agriculture plan.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, barriers to healthy and reliable food access for Dallas residents increased for those hardest hit by the pandemic. With this in mind, the City distributed In-Home Garden Kits to residents across 30 ZIP codes who were COVID at-risk, COVID diagnosed, and/or struggling to find and cook healthy foods.

Garden Kits allow residents the ability to grow produce, herbs, and fruits indoors. The garden kits are countertop gardens that are not dependent on natural light and use little water or soil. Residents using the kits say they now have easier access to nutritious meals, have a consistent supply of produce and enjoy the chance to learn a new skill.

“Our residents using the Garden Kits are now able to provide healthier meal options for themselves and their families by having greens at their fingertips. Through this pilot, we have increased food accessibility, especially for vulnerable populations that may face transportation barriers or budget limitations,” said Director of the Office of Community Care Jessica Galleshaw.

This contest is a cross-departmental collaboration and is part of a larger city initiative to address food deserts, increase local food access and production and encourage healthier food choices.

Learn more and sign up for the Seeds to Supper recipe contest here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/seedstosupper.