About the winners - $1,000 Finalist ~ cold Sandwich
Brenda Cole
Salmon and Arugula Tailgater (Cold Category)
How did you feel when you found out you won the contest?
[Brenda:] I couldn't have been more thrilled. I really enjoy cooking, making up new recipes and tweaking ingredients, so to be recognized for it is special to me.
How did you come up with the idea for the winning sandwich?
We eat a lot of salmon, and frequently have leftovers. So one day I put together a leftovers sandwich, made from egg salad, green salad, and salmon. It was really quite good, and with a few changes it turned out to be great! We make them all the time now.
Have you ever won a cooking contest before?
No. I did have an original recipe of mine included once in a cookbook, and I have entered several recipe contests over the years, but never placed until now.
Why do you think gourmet sandwiches are becoming such a trend?
I think "gourmet" used to mean complex and rich, but today it just means good, pure, flavorful ingredients. That's the way people want to eat now, whether it's a four-course dinner or a sandwich.
How long have you been using Mezzetta products?
As long as I can remember. I'm part Italian, so that has a strong influence on my cooking. Mezzetta's line of olives, capers, peppers and the like play an important role in the food I prepare.
Where do you shop for Mezzetta products?
They are readily available in most grocery stores here in Maryland. Wegmans is where I do most of my grocery shopping. But there is a great little local Italian grocery about a mile away called Santoni's that I frequent as well.
Any plans yet for the prize money?
My husband and I are in the process of putting in an outdoor kitchen (grill, refrigerator, sink). There are a couple of fun extras that I wanted to incorporated, but really couldn't justify the cost. Looks like I'll be able to add a few of those after all!
Biographical Info
Age? (You can make this an approximation!)
45
Profession?
I'm an electrical engineer by education, but I am currently not working (by choice).
Married? Involved? Children? Pets? Names?
Married 20 years this coming April. My husband's name is Craig. We have been talking about going back to Napa to celebrate our anniversary next spring, so maybe we can meet you somewhere for a glass of wine (or two).
How long a resident of Reisterstown?
I've lived in Maryland for about 25 years. I grew up in Washington PA.
Other hobbies, passions, pastimes?
Organic Gardening, Tennis, DIY Home Improvements and Stock Trading.
Anything else you would like to add?
Just thank you again for hosting this contest. I am so excited to be a winner. And thank you for making such high quality products available for us home cook enthusiasts!