Hi, I’m Reed.
I’m an award-winning home cook, food blogger and culinary creator passionate about healthy, pescatarian-inspired recipes. My journey in the kitchen began as a young child in small-town Kansas, where I spent countless hours learning the art of cooking from my mom. I was also inspired by visits to my birthplace in Nebraska, where my grandparents taught me about bringing community together over a good meal. Through the years, my love for food has grown deeper, and it’s shaped my approach to cooking, healthy eating and recipe development.
Rooted in Community
Growing up, food was more than just a meal – it was a bond, a tradition and an experience. My dad’s family ran a fish shack where they also sold homegrown potatoes, creating lasting memories and a deep connection to eating local. My mom’s mom ran a small café at the entrance to a Nebraska state park, and I still dream about her mile-high meringue pies. These early influences have remained at the heart of my cooking. After moving around the country and experiencing various regional cuisines during my career as a journalist, I developed a particular passion for regional flavors and traditions. I took a particular liking to Cajun flavors after spending a few years in South Louisiana. It wasn’t until I embraced the Whole30 program that I truly transformed my approach to food and realized I needed to share it with others.
My Whole30 Transformation
Whole30 completely changed how I viewed food, and it was the catalyst for the creation of Pesto & Potatoes. When I did my first round of Whole30, I quickly realized how powerful it was to cook with whole, unprocessed foods. I learned to read labels and gained a deeper understanding of shopping the perimeter of grocery stores. This inspired me to help others better navigate their kitchens and the ingredients they use, especially those following plant-based, pescatarian or flexitarian diets. Cooking should be fun and approachable, and I’m here to remove the intimidation and stress that often comes with meal prep.
Here is where I share recipes that are simple, healthy and rooted in real ingredients. With more than 100 Whole30-compatible recipes (including plant-based options!), I’ve built a community of home cooks who are excited to try new recipes, learn new techniques and feel confident in the kitchen. Food is about celebration, and no celebration is complete without food.
Inspired by Surroundings
Whether it’s the vibrant seafood of the Pacific Northwest, the fresh produce at local farmers’ markets, or shopping your pantry (and freezer, too), I draw inspiration from the many places I’ve lived and those from whom I’ve learned. My approach to cooking focuses on what’s available and what’s in season, which is why you’ll find recipes that highlight the beauty of fresh ingredients, simple preparations and short ingredient lists.
I live in Seattle, where I have access to an abundance of seafood and fresh, local produce from which to draw inspiration. I’ve built my culinary foundation here, teaching cooking classes to empower others to embrace their kitchens and make wholesome, hearty meals for themselves. But I also keep in mind what you might have available, no matter where in the world you live.
Join Me on My Culinary Journey
When I’m not cooking, I work in marketing to help build brands by developing and sharing stories that can have a positive influence for everyone. I also spent nearly a decade performing stand-up comedy, which I’m thankful was before the widespread use of social media. But my background in comedy helped me hone my creativity and allows me to bring a lighthearted approach to cooking.
Whether you’re new to cooking or looking to simplify your meals with easy, nutritious recipes, Pesto & Potatoes is here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s get comfortable in the kitchen together – cooking with what’s on hand, exploring seasonal ingredients and making delicious meals that nourish our body and soul.
I invite you to dive into my collection of recipes, cooking tips and food stories. I hope you’ll share yours, too. Together, we can bring healthy, flavorful meals to the table and inspire each other to embrace the joy of cooking!