Dole enlists actress Ali Larter to help introduce new garden soup

Dole has teamed up with actress Ali Larter to introduce Dole Garden Soup, a premium line of packaged, ready-to-serve soups.

According to Dole, the line of soups — which is packaged in BPA-free boxes — has no preservatives or MSG, and is available in five low-fat, gluten-free and cholesterol-free varieties: Roasted Garlic Tomato Basil, Tomato Vegetable, Carrot Ginger, Southwestern Black Bean & Corn and Sweet Corn.

"Consumers told us they wanted the garden-fresh flavor of home-made vegetable soups, with the ease and convenience of a ready-made product. Drawing on Dole's rich heritage in growing vegetables, Dole Garden Soup delivers in a way nobody else can. We are thrilled to provide these delicious, healthy soups that showcase the flavors of the best vegetables nature has to offer," said Brad Bartlett, president of Dole Packaged Foods.

As part of its marketing efforts, Dole has launched the Dole Souper Gardener contest to search for America's best gardener. From now through Oct. 17, consumers can visit DoleSouperGardener.com to nominate themselves, or someone else, to win $5,000 and a $5,000 matching donation to a local community garden. Contest entrants submit a picture of their 2014 garden, with a description of why they should be named the Dole Souper Gardener.

The grand prize winner and two finalists will be judged by "Legends" actress and professional cookbook author Ali Larter. In addition to the monetary prize, the grand prize winner will receive a gardening kit and a year supply of Dole Garden Soup. Two additional finalists will win a gardening kit and all five flavors of Dole Garden Soup.

"Pure and simple ingredients are important to me and my growing family," said Larter. "I'm excited to team up with Dole Garden Soup to launch the new line, reward Souper Gardeners everywhere and spread awareness about the importance of healthy eating."

The 26-ounce carton of Dole Garden Soup is available for a suggested retail price of $3.49.