The Heart Behind The Recipe Necessity
Hi, I'm Shannon—a Texan turned Pacific Northwest resident, sharing my life with my husband, kids, dogs, and chickens. I’m passionate about cooking, gardening, cookbooks, and everything that makes the kitchen a joyful place.

My love for creating food started when I found success in both the kitchen and the garden. I’ve been drawn to gardening and plants since I was a young adult, fascinated by the process of nurturing and growing my own ingredients. I went to college for horticulture, but life took me in a different path. Now, I have the opportunity to put those skills to use and share everything I’ve learned—from both school and real-life experience—with my audience.
I started cooking out of necessity, making homemade meals for my two hungry kids. Over time, I followed recipes, learned techniques, and built confidence in the kitchen. Now, I’m taking it to the next level, developing my own recipes and helping others do the same.
At The Recipe Necessity, I create practical, garden-to-table recipes that help home cooks make delicious, seasonal meals with real ingredients. Every recipe is tested in my home kitchen, focusing on approachable, flavorful cooking that fits into everyday life.
When I’m not in the kitchen, you’ll find me at the farmers’ market, in my garden, or getting lost in another cookbook. I believe anyone can cook with confidence, and I’m here to help! Not sure where to start? Try my favorite recipe: Easy Asparagus Tart with a Crispy Crust.
I’m rooting for your success in the kitchen. Let’s plan our dinners, explore new flavors, and cook our way through the week together!
