Hey there, I’m Ashley—the foodie behind Wanderzest!
How My Passion for Food Started...
My love for food started when I was just a kid, cooking and baking alongside my mom and grandma in their kitchens. Some of my favorite childhood memories are filled with the yummy smell of homemade brownies baking in the oven, the warmth of our kitchen on chilly winter days, and the joy of sharing my food creations with family and friends (one of my proudest baking accomplishments was a Reese's peanut butter cheesecake!) Those moments are what truly sparked my passion for cooking and food!
A New Interest in Travel...
If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I absolutely love to eat and travel. However, unlike food, my love for travel didn't happen until later on in life when I was a newlywed. My husband and I went on our first trip abroad together, to England, France, and The Netherlands, two years after we were married, and we quickly caught the travel bug! I also discovered how fun it was to try food in different countries, and I became obsessed with the need to find the best foods to eat in each country I visited. Now, whenever we plan a vacation, you can bet I'm diving into very important "foodie" research, making a list of every must-try dish, hole-in-the-wall eatery, and unforgettable pastry I have to taste. While most people map out sightseeing spots, I’m busy planning food-filled itineraries!
Wanderzest Was Born...
After traveling to over 25 countries, I realized that what I love most about food is how it connects all of us. No matter where we come from—different cultures, countries, or walks of life—we all share the basic need for food. I love that food tells heartfelt stories, carries rich traditions, and brings people together around the table. This idea is what inspired me to start Wanderzest. I wanted to celebrate the beauty of global cuisine and share the amazing flavors that make each culture so unique.
What Will You Find on Wanderzest?
- Authentic & Approachable International Recipes. I share traditional recipes from around the world that are easy to make at home—no hard-to-find ingredients or complicated techniques required.
- Tested & Trusted. Every recipe is developed and tested in my kitchen to ensure it turns out great for you, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook.
- Shortcut-Friendly Treats. I love a good homemade dessert, but sometimes you need a little shortcut! You’ll find plenty of easy baking ideas using pre-made pie crust, frozen roll dough, and other time-saving ingredients.
- Helpful Tips & Step-by-Step Guidance. My recipes include clear instructions, key notes, and practical tips to help you succeed in the kitchen every time.
- A Taste of Travel. Food and travel go hand in hand! I share insights into different cuisines and cultures, so you can experience the world from your own home.
So, whether you're here looking for a new favorite recipe, wanting to relive a travel memory, or just in the mood to try something different for dinner, I hope Wanderzest inspires you to explore the world—no passport needed! Grab your apron, your appetite, and your favorite stretchy pants—let’s eat our way around the world together!
FAQs
As you've learned by now, I love traveling and experiencing new cuisines, and I wanted a name that captured that passion. “Wander” represents my love for exploring the world, and “zest” ties into both food (like lemon zest) and the joy I get from working in the kitchen!
I’m so glad you’re here and excited to try something new! My Homemade Pita Bread is a great place to start—it’s easy, requires simple ingredients, and pairs well with so many dishes.
If you’re up for an adventure, I’d recommend my Homemade Stroopwafels! They require a little extra patience and technique, but the reward is a perfectly crisp, caramel-filled Dutch treat.
I love to know what recipes you’d like to see! While I can’t guarantee I’ll be able to make every recipe requested, I always appreciate the inspiration. Feel free to reach out with any ideas!
Featured On
Ashley's Favorite Recipes
Fun Facts About Me
- I’m lucky to be married to my wonderful hubby, Jacob, and together, we have two beautiful blonde-haired, blue-eyed kiddos—London and Jack. Life with them is always an adventure, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
- Two of my favorite TV shows of all time are The Office and Parks and Rec. I think I binge-watched Parks and Rec in less than a month (as a full-time student!) It's kind of my guilty pleasure.
- I love camping, fishing, hiking, 4-wheeling, boating, and doing anything and everything outdoors.
- I have a degree in marketing, and I am now hoping to pursue a new dream of mine someday: nursing.
- Over the past 10+ years, my husband and I have traveled to over 25 countries. We love to travel and are always looking for a new adventure to take!
- I am a total introvert. The perfect evening for me is watching a movie or TV show with my hubby or working on Wanderzest.
Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoy what you see (and eat)!
Let's Stay in Touch!
If you have questions or want to work with me, check out my Contact page and fill out the form or email questions.