'Top Chef: Las Vegas'

Merriman currently resides in Seattle, Wash.

Profession: Chef at Branzino in Seattle, Wash.

Culinary Education: Institute of Culinary Education, New York, N.Y.

Favorite Simple Summer Recipe: Pan-Fried Soft Shell Crabs with Ramps and Morels

Foodie Fact: You don't have to become a chef if you hail from a town named Center Sandwich, but don't tell that to Ashley Merriman. Merriman currently works for Chef Alexandra Guarneschelli in New York City, and her five kitchen must-haves are quality extra virgin olive oil, champagne vinegar, lemons and thyme.