Safeway 'Search for Our Next Chef' Competition

This press release was submitted by Safeway:

Starting today, Safeway wants your vote. Go to Facebook.com/Safeway to vote for the People's Choice finalists who will compete in regional cook-offs in San Francisco, Chicago and Seattle.

The competition started in February with chefs from all across the United States competing to become a chef at the Safeway Culinary Kitchens and have their recipe included in the Open Nature Skillet Meal line sold in stores nationwide.

Finalists will receive prizes for their hard work and participation, with third place winning $1,000 and second place winning $2,000.

"We know our busy shoppers want delicious, healthier and convenient meals," said Mike Minasi, president of marketing at Safeway. "Our state-of-the-art Culinary Kitchens feature 4,000 square feet of food development work space, including a kitchen set-up reminiscent of what our shoppers have in their homes. It is here that we are able to develop innovative Safeway food products tailored to what our shoppers want – great tasting food at affordable prices."

 Executive Chef Alexandra Guarnaschelli, who appears on Food Network's "Chopped" and "Iron Chef," will join an experienced judging panel of Safeway chefs and executives to select the winning chef who will join the culinary team.