BOISE, Idaho (July 15, 2010) -- J.R. Simplot Co.'s new RoastWorks(r) brand Southwest Blend frozen-roasted vegetables delivers robust flavor and versatility to enhance menus across all day parts -- especially breakfasts -- with ethnic-inspired dishes. Expertly seasoned and bursting with color, RoastWorks Southwest Blend is a mix of diced potatoes, onions and flame-roasted red and green pepper strips. It is the newest member of Simplot's upscale RoastWorks line of potatoes, vegetables, fruit and pasta.

According to Simplot Executive Chef Dianna Fricke, the popularity of ethnic-inspired menu items continues to escalate, with big, bold Latin flavor being a particular favorite among American restaurant goers. "Our RoastWorks Southwest Blend satisfies the contemporary customer demand for healthier, full-bodied flavors and ethnic choices," she says. "Foodservice operators can easily create scrumptious dishes that turn up the heat with an infusion of these popular flavors. Plus it can be incorporated into appetizers, soups, casseroles and entrees, as well as breakfast items like quiches and burritos. With little fat and zero grams trans-fat, our RoastWorks Southwest Blend also provides many nutritional advantages."

Signature attributes of Simplot RoastWorks products are cost savings, waste reduction, ease of preparation, and consistent seasoning. RoastWorks Southwest Blend is no different -- just heat, serve and save. The chopping, slicing, dicing and spicing has already been completed, size and flavor are consistent, and 100 percent of the product is usable.

Furthermore, Chef Fricke says during test marketing 98 percent of foodservice operators who used the new RoastWorks Southwest Blend agreed it is easy to prepare. "Our RoastWorks Southwest Blend is another great example of how Simplot takes a proactive approach to food trends and operator needs, including menu versatility and kitchen efficiency," she says.

One of the largest privately held food and agribusiness corporations, J.R. Simplot Co. earns $4.5 billion in revenues annually. The company's largest division, Simplot Food Group provides high-quality french fries, potato products, fruits, vegetables and other value-added specialty products to the foodservice industry and major restaurant chains. Learn more about Simplot innovation at www.simplotfoods.com and www.tohellwithprep.com.

RoastWorks(r) is a registered trademark of J.R. Simplot Co.

SOUTHWEST BREAKFAST BURRITO RECIPE:

http://www.simplotfoods.com/dsp_recipe_popup.cfm?product_code=10071179015710&recipe_id=720

PAN-SEARED TILAPIA WITH MOJO VERDE SAUCE RECIPE:

http://www.simplotfoods.com/dsp_recipe_popup.cfm?product_code=10071179015710&recipe_id=722

SOUTHWEST MINI MEATLOAVES RECIPE:

http://www.simplotfoods.com/dsp_recipe_popup.cfm?product_code=10071179015710&recipe_id=754

SOUTHWEST BREAKFAST PIZZA RECIPE:

http://www.simplotfoods.com/dsp_recipe_popup.cfm?product_code=10071179015710&recipe_id=755