Special to The Post-Searchlight

Warmer weather means soon more days will be spent outdoors, firing up the grill and entertaining friends and family. To help everyone step outside and into summer, the Vidalia® Onion Committee has launched its Sweet Vidalia® Flavors of Summer program.

The program’s website is Flavors-of-Summer.com, which provides access to coupons, expert cooking and entertaining tips, a contest with compelling outdoor-themed prizes and recipes guaranteed to make any soiree a success.

Party planners and home cooks will save plenty when shopping for their next event with downloadable coupons from Vidalia® onions, America’s beloved sweet onion, and similarly iconic summer brands such as Johnsonville® Mild Italian Sausage Links, Gourmet Garden Herbs & Spices, National Mango Board, Avocados from Mexico, National Watermelon Promotion Board and Stemilt Cherrie

Along with money saving coupons, the VOC also is giving grill masters, home chefs and hostesses across the nation the chance to upload photos and submit recipes of their salute to summer for a chance to win cash and prizes. Contest categories include: Grilling Favorites; Salads, Sides and Desserts; Marinades, Sauces and Salsas; and Outdoor Decorating and Entertaining. A winner from each category will receive $1,000. One of the top four category winners will be awarded the grand prize — an outdoor entertaining package valued at $5,000 that includes an outdoor grill and furniture. All entries must be received by Thursday, August 15.

For those who need a little inspiration to get the party started, official campaign spokeswoman and cookbook author Rebecca Lang provides expert entertaining tips and exclusive recipes. Lang is also a cooking instructor, television personality and contributing editor for Myrecipes.com and Southern Living magazine. She is hosting several events to kick off the program, including social media activities and in-store appearances.

Four popular food and entertaining bloggers will likewise share delicious recipes, decorating tips and party theme ideas on the website as well as Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter.

 

About Vidalia® Onions

Vidalia® onions are the pioneer of sweet onions and Georgia’s official state vegetable. Grown only in the mild climate and unique soil surrounding Vidalia, Ga., they’re loved by chefs and home cooks throughout the world. Vidalia® onions are hand planted and hand harvested each year, with sweet, juicy bulbs available seasonally from late April to late August. Vidalia® onions, with their mild, sweet taste, are versatile and can be used in a variety of amazing recipes. These Georgia sweeties are also a low-fat, low-cholesterol and sodium-free way to get a healthy dose of Vitamin C! For more information, visit VidaliaOnion.org.