A few weeks ago, I had the incredible opportunity to embark on a culinary adventure in sunny California, joining a remarkable group of fellow bloggers for the highly anticipated Dole Taste of Spain Salad Summit. Over three exhilarating days in the picturesque city of Monterey, we immersed ourselves in a comprehensive exploration of the food industry, tracing the journey of lettuce from farm to table, delving into emerging healthy eating trends, savoring an array of exquisitely fresh Spanish-inspired dishes, and, perhaps most importantly, forging new connections and strengthening old friendships amidst the stunning coastal scenery.
This summit wasn’t just about food; it was a deep dive into the philosophy behind Dole’s commitment to fresh, quality produce, wrapped in the vibrant flavors of Spain. From the moment the invitation arrived, I knew this would be an experience unlike any other, promising insights into sustainable farming, nutritional advancements, and the creative art of culinary presentation. Monterey, with its charming seaside ambiance and rich agricultural heritage, provided the perfect backdrop for such an enlightening and delicious event.
The Journey Begins: From Dawn Patrol to Coastal Charm
My adventure kicked off with a brisk 6 AM flight, a true “rise and shine” moment that promised exciting days ahead. After fueling up with a couple of much-needed cups of coffee and enduring a lengthy layover in Phoenix, the excitement truly began to build as I met up with a handful of bloggers for our final leg to Monterey. To my delight, my wonderful friend and “neighbor” from the north, Kristin, and I found ourselves seat buddies! There’s nothing quite like connecting with a dear friend over shared passions, and our conversations made the journey fly by. (And I’m eagerly anticipating the arrival of her sweet little one – soon to be Iowa Baby Eats!)
Upon our arrival in Monterey, we rendezvoused with more of our fellow bloggers before a comfortable shuttle whisked us away to our luxurious accommodations for the summit: the breathtaking Carmel Valley Ranch. From the moment we pulled up, it was clear this wasn’t just a hotel; it was an experience in itself. The serene beauty of the ranch, nestled amidst rolling hills and oak trees, instantly transported us to a state of calm and anticipation. I was, quite frankly, ready to pack my bags and make this stunning retreat my permanent home!
A Sanctuary of Comfort: Carmel Valley Ranch
My “cabin” at Carmel Valley Ranch was an absolute dream, surprisingly more spacious than my loft in Kansas City, yet exuding an undeniable sense of coziness and warmth. Every single detail seemed thoughtfully curated to create an inviting haven. The living areas were perfect for relaxing, the bedrooms featured luxurious beds and a working fireplace that I gleefully lit each evening while unwinding with a book. The gorgeous bathrooms boasted inviting bathtubs, plush white robes, and an array of fragrant lavender soaps and lotions. Dried lavender bundles adorned the cabin, adding to the soothing ambiance, and the incredible view from the balcony overlooking the picturesque valley was simply unparalleled. It was a perfect blend of rustic charm and sophisticated luxury, making every moment feel like a true escape.
Even the smallest touches contributed to the enchanting experience. Each morning, the daily newspaper arrived nestled in an adorable burlap bag, perfectly complementing the fresh coffee brewed from my personal Keurig machine. These thoughtful amenities underscored the ranch’s commitment to guest comfort, setting a delightful tone for each day’s activities. Beyond the luxurious interiors, the ranch embraced the quintessential California outdoor lifestyle.
Outside, the warm, wonderful California weather beckoned. The ranch boasted beautiful swimming pools, perfect for a refreshing dip, and comfortable lounge chairs where one could bask in the sun, or, in my case, pick up some invaluable Lightroom editing tricks from the ever-talented Heidi. A sunny outdoor restaurant provided a charming setting for leisurely lunches, allowing us to soak in the stunning surroundings while enjoying delicious food.
Culinary Delights and Connections: The First Day’s Flavors
As food bloggers, our first lunch together was, predictably, a top priority and a true highlight. We gathered with more blogging friends, savoring a relaxed meal where, as usual, cameras flashed enthusiastically before any fork touched a plate. If you ever find yourself at Carmel Valley Ranch, you absolutely must try the prawn salad and the truffle fries – they are pure heaven! The crisp, fresh greens of the salad, perfectly complemented by succulent prawns, and the aromatic, perfectly seasoned truffle fries created a symphony of flavors that truly set the tone for the culinary journey ahead.
After our delightful lunch, we embraced the California sun, catching up with both new and old blogger friends while sipping on refreshing fresh fruit water by the pool. It’s always a special joy to meet in person bloggers I’ve admired and followed online for years, especially when they turn out to be as warm and engaging in real life as they are virtually. The “farmgirls,” Brenda and Heather, certainly fell into this category, radiating positive energy and infectious enthusiasm.
Then there are those wonderful bloggers, like the delightful Chung-Ah, whom I’ve had the good fortune of repeatedly encountering at various events. Her radiant personality and stunning presence always light up the room. Building these in-person connections enriches the online world of blogging immensely, creating a strong sense of community and shared purpose.
Once all the attendees had arrived, we officially kicked off the summit with a fantastic happy hour and an exquisite dinner. This was the moment I was introduced to what I now (without any hint of exaggeration) fondly refer to as The Best Sangria Ever. The brilliant culinary team at Dole had the ingenious idea to muddle fresh arugula into the traditional red sangria, and I was instantly captivated. The unexpected peppery note added a sophisticated twist that was simply divine. I was so enamored that I promptly recreated it for my friends upon returning home—it truly is that good!
Over a beautiful gourmet meal, abundant with Dole’s fresh greens, fruits, and vegetables, we had the invaluable opportunity to hear from some of the key leaders and innovators at Dole. (Yes, I might have snuck a small glass of that incredible sangria into dinner too!) The atmosphere was both informative and convivial, perfectly balancing professional insights with delightful conversation.
I was seated at a table with Chung-Ah and Nikki, alongside one of Dole’s CFOs, who shared fascinating insights into the company’s latest developments. One initiative that particularly captured my attention was Dole’s pioneering effort to go a step beyond the existing organic standard, introducing an even cleaner line of produce. This commitment to superior quality and environmental stewardship is truly exciting, and I am genuinely eager and curious to see how this innovative approach continues to unfold and impact the industry. It’s inspiring to witness a major brand pushing boundaries for healthier, more sustainable food options.
Innovative Breakfasts and a Farm-to-Fork Revelation
The next morning brought a truly novel culinary experience: salads for breakfast! As we later learned from the insightful editor of Eating Well magazine, Americans typically consume very few vegetables or greens for breakfast. To inspire new ideas and healthier habits, Dole served up an array of delicious, salad-based tapas. Among these was a delightful Poached Egg, Arugula & Parmesan breakfast salad, as well as a vibrant spicy Spanish shrimp salad. These innovative dishes were a revelation, demonstrating how easily fresh greens can be incorporated into the first meal of the day. I’m definitely inspired to try incorporating more savory salads into my breakfast routine!
Of course, no Dole breakfast would be complete without an abundance of their fresh, succulent fruit. Hailing from the Midwest where many of these varieties aren’t locally grown, it was an absolute treat to dive into such a vibrant and flavorful selection. The natural sweetness and juiciness were a perfect counterpoint to the savory salads, highlighting Dole’s diverse product range.
And while I enjoyed the new breakfast offerings, I also couldn’t resist indulging in the standard breakfast I make almost every day at home: a comforting fruit, yogurt, and oatmeal parfait. It’s a testament to the versatility of fresh produce that it can be enjoyed in so many forms, from innovative salads to familiar, wholesome classics.
After a truly inspiring breakfast, we boarded a charming mini-bus and set off for what would be one of the most memorable parts of the summit: a visit to a working farm. But these weren’t the familiar wheat fields of my home state; we were venturing into the heart of California’s agricultural landscape, a region renowned for its specialty crops.
Indeed, we were on our way to visit a sprawling lettuce farm, a fundamental component of Dole’s extensive supply chain and a vital source of the fresh greens we all enjoy in our salads. The anticipation of seeing where our food truly comes from was palpable among the group.
There to greet us was the farmer himself, Mark Pisoni, a fourth-generation farmer with a deep-rooted connection to the land. I am always profoundly inspired by time spent with farmers, and Mark was no exception. He currently manages approximately 500 acres, cultivating a diverse range of crops including iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, celery, broccoli, and cauliflower. This land has been meticulously farmed by his family for an impressive 100 years – a truly remarkable legacy. Mark, after pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agriculture from UC Davis and Cornell, respectively, made the deliberate choice to return to the family farm, embodying a commitment to tradition and innovation. His passion was evident as he spoke, expressing his hope to instill the same love for farming in his own children, ensuring the family business continues for generations to come.
More than anything, I cherished seeing his face light up as he eloquently spoke about his profound love for the farm and the rewarding work it entails. He enthusiastically demonstrated his passion by taking a crisp bite out of a fresh head of iceberg lettuce, an action we all eagerly emulated. I must admit, I had always considered iceberg lettuce somewhat “boring” compared to other greens. However, tasted fresh directly from the field, it was incredibly crisp, sweet, and bursting with flavor – a true revelation that reshaped my perception of this humble green.
After our engaging conversation with Mark, it was time for the much-anticipated tour of the lettuce field. My wonderful, inspiring, hilarious, and utterly awesome friend, Heidi, perfectly captured the moment as we donned our rather “sexy” hairnets – a crucial step for food safety, of course! We were geared up and ready to explore.
Much to our surprise, however, our tour didn’t lead us along a neat path around the fields, as one might expect from a typical farm visit….
Instead, we were led directly through them! Rest assured, these specific fields had already been harvested, so we weren’t inadvertently trampling any precious lettuce destined for your next salad. This immersive experience allowed us to truly connect with the land and the agricultural process in a unique way.
It was absolutely mesmerizing to witness the harvest in action. The skilled workers demonstrated an astonishing intuitive touch, instantly discerning which heads of lettuce were perfectly ripe for picking and which needed more time or were deemed unsuitable. It was a remarkably slick and efficient operation, especially considering these fields are harvested multiple times throughout the year. The precision and speed with which they worked highlighted the expertise required to bring fresh produce to market.
Dole’s operations are designed for remarkable speed and meticulous care, ensuring that lettuce can journey from the farm to our tables—even across the country to my home in the Midwest—within mere days. This incredible logistical feat guarantees peak freshness and nutritional value, a testament to their commitment to quality and efficiency.
Behind the Scenes: Processing, Safety, and Lettuce Lore
After touring the fields, our educational journey continued with a visit to a Dole washing and bagging facility. Here, we witnessed firsthand the renowned “triple-washed” produce in action. The facility was exceptionally impressive, characterized by its immaculate cleanliness and state-of-the-art machinery. One of the most important takeaways for me was learning that it is entirely unnecessary to re-wash bagged produce. In fact, our tap water often contains more germs and bacteria than what is present on the meticulously cleaned greens straight from the bag. Dole’s rigorous adherence to food safety standards is truly commendable, instilling a profound sense of confidence in the quality and cleanliness of their products.
Following our factory tour, we proceeded to the Research & Development department for an engaging “Lettuce 101” class, expertly guided by our knowledgeable host, Emilio. This session was designed to deepen our understanding of the diverse world of greens that make up Dole’s extensive product line.
It turns out that Dole incorporates an astounding 35 different types of greens and vegetables into their various salad blends, far more than I had ever imagined. To make the learning interactive and fun, our large group of food bloggers was given a pop quiz to test our ability to correctly identify various greens. I have to admit, it was a truly humbling experience! While I consider myself a regular consumer of greens, there were so many varieties I simply didn’t recognize. Who knew there were so many “baby” versions, like red baby kale? Nevertheless, thanks to a bit of lucky guessing, I was one of the winners along with my wonderful new nutritionist friend, Dawn. Our prize? Bottles of exquisite California wine, which made for a delightful pre-happy hour celebration with our blogger friends later that evening.
Winery Wonders and Culinary Trends
After our insightful tours, we were treated to an absolutely amazing lunch at a local gem, Paraiso Vineyards. The drive there alone was picturesque, and the destination itself was breathtaking. Located at the southern end of the majestic Saint Lucia Highlands, this lovely estate is gracefully situated amidst 400 acres of vineyards, cultivated by the same family for generations. The air was filled with the scent of sun-warmed grapes and blooming flowers, creating an idyllic setting for our meal.
Like nearly all of our meals during the summit, we had the distinct pleasure of dining outdoors under the glorious California sun. And what an incredible lunch it was! The entire experience, from the ambiance to the company, was simply perfect, embodying the relaxed elegance of wine country dining.
From a tantalizing spread of delicious appetizers that showcased local ingredients…
…to the main course of perfectly grilled chicken accompanied by the most exquisite saffron rice I’ve ever tasted, every dish was a masterpiece of flavor and presentation. The vibrant yellow hue and delicate aroma of the rice were simply irresistible.
It was the ideal setting to enjoy a memorable meal with wonderful friends, including Liz and Chung-Ah. The conversation flowed as easily as the wine, creating an atmosphere of genuine camaraderie.
I also particularly loved that everyone around the table took a moment to introduce their blogs and share their favorite vegetable. While I wasn’t entirely sure if it qualified as a “vegetable,” everyone enthusiastically agreed that it did – my choice was arugula! Its peppery kick and versatility make it a perennial favorite in my kitchen.
After lunch, we returned to the ranch for an incredibly insightful session on culinary food trends, presented by Lisa Gosselin, the esteemed editor of Eating Well magazine. I was so impressed that she traveled all the way to California specifically to engage with our group! Her presentation was a goldmine of information, and I, for one, completely “geeked out” on the data and insights she shared. Here are 10 of the most fascinating facts that resonated with me:
- 44% of meals are now eaten alone, highlighting a shift in dining habits.
- 51% of Americans are now making more meals at home, indicating a return to home cooking.
- Among Millennials, a significant 40% believe that eating together is an important ritual.
- While 1% of the U.S. population has celiac disease and 6% are gluten-intolerant, a much larger 29% are actively reducing or avoiding gluten.
- Quinoa has transformed into the “Food of 2013,” skyrocketing from a $2.4 million to a $43 million industry in just ten years.
- Only 1 in 3 Americans consumes the recommended 2.5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, underscoring a critical nutritional gap.
- America’s favorite vegetable, perhaps surprisingly for some, is asparagus.
- 78% of U.S. adults report now buying organic produce, indicating a strong preference for naturally grown foods.
- Requests for “international” recipes now rank #2, right after “healthy” recipes, reflecting an expanding palate.
- A 2013 Spanish study published in NEJM found that 30% of deaths from heart disease can be prevented by adopting a Mediterranean diet, reinforcing its health benefits.
These trends not only provide valuable context for food bloggers but also highlight the evolving landscape of consumer preferences and dietary choices, many of which align perfectly with Dole’s mission to promote fresh, healthy eating.
A Taste of Spain: Cooking Demo and Tapas Challenge
Speaking of the Mediterranean diet, our next engaging session featured the head chef and owner from a renowned local Spanish restaurant, Mundaka. The chef captivated us with an impressive demonstration on how to create his truly amazing black beluga lentil salad, artfully layered with smoked ham, delicately shaved Brussels sprouts, tangy pickled cauliflower, and a bright lemon vinaigrette, all elegantly presented in a charming Mason jar. It was a beautiful example of how simple, fresh ingredients can be elevated to gourmet status with thoughtful preparation.
And then came the exciting announcement: it was our turn to cook! We numbered off and divided into four eager groups, each tasked with creating our very own Spanish-inspired tapas. A sprawling array of ingredients awaited us, from savory prosciutto and briny anchovies to sweet roasted red peppers and much more. The creativity within each group flowed effortlessly, with bloggers brainstorming and collaborating to craft unique and delicious bites. It was a wonderful opportunity to put our culinary skills and imaginations to the test in a fun, interactive setting.
The chef had originally prepared to give out awards like “most authentic” or “most creative,” but he quickly discovered that food bloggers, while friendly, can be wonderfully competitive! The enthusiasm and playful rivalry in the room were infectious, making the challenge even more spirited and entertaining.
After our spirited cooking session, we had the distinct pleasure of driving to the real Mundaka restaurant in Carmel, where we enjoyed a truly wonderful evening together, savoring an incredible authentic Spanish dining experience. The ambiance of the restaurant, with its vibrant decor and lively atmosphere, transported us straight to Spain.
You know, just a normal, casual 10-course meal! Each dish was a small work of art, a symphony of flavors and textures that celebrated the richness of Spanish cuisine. From innovative tapas to traditional favorites, the culinary journey was a true feast for the senses, perfectly encapsulating the “Taste of Spain” theme.
Great friends, exceptional food, and lively Spanish music – it truly doesn’t get any better than that. The shared experience of savoring each course, discussing the flavors, and enjoying the company of like-minded individuals made for an evening that will not soon be forgotten. It was a perfect blend of gastronomic delight and genuine human connection.
And of course, with a group comprised entirely of food bloggers, sampling every single course was not just an indulgence but serious business. Each dish was meticulously photographed, dissected, and discussed, adding another layer of enjoyment and shared expertise to the meal.
Among the many delectable dishes, the cauliflower mac and cheese (pictured on the right) was an undisputed crowd favorite. Its creamy texture and rich flavor, with the surprising addition of cauliflower, made it a memorable and inventive tapas that delighted everyone at the table.
As for anything eel-related (that isn’t sushi!), the jury is still out for me. While adventurous in my culinary pursuits, some flavors present a greater challenge to my palate, sparking interesting discussions and varied opinions among the bloggers. It’s all part of the fun of exploring new cuisines!
But one thing is certain: I always love a good paella. This classic Spanish dish, with its aromatic saffron rice, succulent seafood, and savory meats, instantly transported me back to my unforgettable trip to Barcelona. It was a comforting and deeply satisfying dish that truly captured the essence of Spanish culinary tradition.
I had the distinct pleasure of sitting next to one of my absolute favorite people during dinner, the truly beautiful Sandy, who was also joined by her wonderful husband, Paul. Sandy simply radiates joy, warmth, and love, and being in her presence invariably makes me a better person. Our conversations were as rich and satisfying as the meal itself, making for an evening of genuine connection and heartfelt laughter.
Farewells and the Scenic 17-Mile Drive
The next morning, we gathered for our final presentation, an incredibly informative session from the director of the Eating Well test kitchen on the art of recipe writing. We received a wealth of practical tips and insights, particularly valuable for food bloggers, covering everything from clear instructions to engaging storytelling. It was a perfect way to conclude the educational aspect of the summit, leaving us with tangible skills to enhance our craft.
Afterwards, we hopped back into our trusty mini-bus for a truly iconic Monterey experience: the famous 17-Mile Drive around the stunning Monterey peninsula. This picturesque coastal route is legendary for a reason, and it was a fantastic way to soak in the natural beauty of California one last time with this incredible group of women. Love these girls!
The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, a dramatic interplay of rugged coastline, ancient cypress trees, and sparkling blue ocean. And, of course, the bloggers themselves added to the beautiful views! (Smile, Tessa and Heather!)
During our drive, we even discovered that Heidi possesses a unique quality: she’s a definite deer-magnet! A curious deer approached her with remarkable boldness, providing a charming and memorable wildlife encounter that further enhanced our scenic journey.
This picturesque vista always brings back the lingering question: why do I choose to live in a landlocked state again? The expansive beauty of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic cliffs of the California coast are undeniably captivating, stirring a longing for seaside living. The ocean, in all its majestic glory, was simply stunning.
The rhythmic crashing of waves, the salty air, and the endless horizon created a profound sense of peace and wonder.
And to top it all off, we even spotted playful otters, gracefully navigating the waters near the shore! It was truly a perfect, natural end to a beautiful trip, filled with unexpected moments of joy and wonder.
This unforgettable journey was shared with some of the best people I know. Just look at all those genuine smiles! The connections forged and memories created with this incredible group of women made the entire experience truly priceless, extending beyond just the culinary and educational aspects.
Dole, you certainly chose a magnificent place to conduct such an enriching event. The Monterey area, with its blend of natural beauty, agricultural prowess, and culinary excellence, proved to be the ideal setting.
Overall, this “Taste of Spain” trip was an absolutely wonderful and enriching experience, made seamlessly possible by our rockstar organizers. Their meticulous planning and unwavering dedication ensured every detail was perfect, and they truly are the best!
And to the incredible group of bloggers who shared this time together, I extend my deepest love and hugs. We created so many cherished memories with these phenomenal women. Be sure to visit their lovely blogs below to discover more culinary inspiration and engaging content!
- Brenda | A Farmgirl’s Dabbles
- Catherine | Rabbit Food For My Bunny Teeth
- Christy | The Shnuck’s Difference
- Chung-Ah | Damn Delicious
- Dawn | Dawn Blatner
- Heather | Farmgirl Gourmet
- Heidi | Foodie Crush
- Jane | This Week For Dinner
- Kristin | Iowa Girl Eats
- Lisa | Authentic Suburban Gourmet
- Liz | The Lemon Bowl
- Marie | Make and Takes
- Nikki | Chef In Training
- Sandy | Reluctant Entertainer
- Tessa | Handle The Heat