Panini Toscano voted Canada's "Gratest" Grilled Cheese

Chef Michael Howell from Nova Scotia takes top honours

TORONTO, Aug. 24 /CNW/ - Dairy Farmers of Canada today announced that Panini Toscano has been named Canada's "gratest" grilled cheese. Chef Michael Howell of The Tempest restaurant in Wolfville, Nova Scotia stole the show with his delicious creation at the Grate Canadian Grilled Cheese Cook-Off, which saw top chefs from across Canada put their spin on this classic Canadian favourite.

The winning grilled cheese combined the flavours of figs, prosciutto, arugula, and Canadian Gouda cheese from Fox Hill in Nova Scotia.

The Grate Canadian Grilled Cheese recipes created especially for this competition included: "The Spicy Shrimp" and "Chef Corbin's Best Ever" from Chef Corbin Tomaszeski of Holt's Café in Toronto; "Cheddar Your Wagons" and "Curry Me Brie" created by Chef Paul Rogalski from Rouge restaurant in Calgary; "French Toast Grilled Cheese" and "Barbequed Ham Grilled Cheese" from Chef Melissa Craig of Bearfoot Bistro in Whistler; and "Panini Toscano" and "Dark and Stormy" submitted by Chef Michael Howell of The Tempest in Wolfville.

"Canadians are sure to be inspired by these incredible grilled cheese creations," said Chef Michael Howell. "This wonderful Cook-Off and my fellow chefs have all shown us that making a winning grilled cheese sandwich is simple - all you need is bread, your favourite Canadian cheese and some imagination."

The winning grilled cheese sandwich was chosen by a jury of Canada's top food writers: Rita DeMontis, Lucy Waverman, and Corey Mintz.

The Cook-Off was organized by Dairy Farmers of Canada to take the grilled cheese sandwich to a whole new level and showcase the outstanding quality, variety, taste and versatility of Canadian cheese made from 100% Canadian milk. Cheese lovers across Canada can receive a free copy of the 'All You Need Is Cheese' magazine with an array of grilled cheese recipes (including the recipes featured at the Grate Canadian Grilled Cheese Cook-Off) and tips for making the perfect grilled cheese by visiting www.allyouneedischeese.ca/grilledcheese.

Look for the 100% Canadian Milk Symbol

Look for the 100% Canadian Milk symbol whenever you buy cheese, it confirms the Canadian origin of the milk, renowned for its high quality, purity and great taste.  Cheese products made from 100% Canadian milk are rich in essential nutrients and are part of a healthy diet.

About Dairy Farmers of Canada

Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC) strives to create favourable conditions for the Canadian dairy industry, today and in the future.  DFC works to maintain policies that foster the viability of Canadian dairy producers and to promote quality Canadian dairy products made from 100% Canadian milk as part of a healthy balanced diet.  DFC is completely funded by dairy producers.

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For further information:

Will Lamont / Beatrice Bastedo
416-322-3030, ext. 241 / 231
[email protected] / [email protected]