Since its release in 2017, Ostro has gained a legion of fans who adore Julia Busuttil Nishimura for her generous, uncomplicated, seasonal food. Julia’s interpretations of dishes from Italy and the Mediterranean feel both timelessly familiar and altogether fresh and new. This is modern Australian eating with respect for the past.

Julia guides us through the uniquely satisfying experience of making pasta or pizza dough from scratch, with recipes such as ricotta tortelloni with butter, sage and hazelnuts or taleggio and potato pizza. She also shares plenty of flavourful salads and simple meals for days when time is scarce, such as roasted cauliflower and wheat salad or tray-roasted chicken with grapes, olives and walnuts.

Baking and desserts, too, needn’t be overly complicated. As Julia shows us, some of the best recipes are those that have been passed down for generations and streamlined to perfection along the way, such as her perfect lemon olive oil cake. But we also need the odd show-stopper, such as a chocolate layer cake with espresso frosting, on standby for special occasions!

This is simple food that is comforting and generous in spirit. Slow down, take your time and enjoy it.