Meet the Winner of the 2019 Meatless Monday Rapid Fire Challenge in Orlando, Florida
On Monday, September 16, three finalists competed to be crowned the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show Meatless Monday Rapid Fire Champion. Finalists were chosen from a pool of chefs who submitted original meatless recipes and videos.
The competition was judged by a panel of experts including (from left to right) Hari Pulapaka, Ph.D., C.E.C., Executive Chef & Co-Owner, Cress Restaurant; Kristine Palkowetz, Chief Wellness Officer, Joyful Goodness; Kendra Lott, Publisher, Edible Orlando; and Dana Smith, Campaign Director, Meatless Monday.
The three competing finalists were:
Carly Paige, Founder, FitLiving Eats; Author, “Simply Swapped Everyday”
Chris Dancesia, Owner/Chef, Nick’s Bistro
Anne Hernandez, Founder, Our Urban Homestead
Chefs had 20 minutes to prepare their dishes while discussing the ingredients, flavors, and health benefits. Each chef prepared their favorite meatless dish for the panel of judges.
Carly Paige kicked off the competition by preparing her Lentil Walnut Tacos, which she said she knows are good because even her meat and potato loving brother enjoys them.
Congratulations to Chef Chris!
Try all the chefs’ recipes this Meatless Monday and let us know how they came out on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.