Who’s the author? Alison Roman is a chef, food writer, and cookbook author, who has attracted a cult following thanks to her effortlessly chic recipes and unique, irreverent point of view. In addition to her bestselling cookbooks, which include Nothing Fancy, Dining In and Sweet Enough, Alison runs her own YouTube channel Home Movies, newsletter (titled A Newsletter), and corner store First Bloom in upstate New York.

What’s it about? Something from Nothing, Alison’s fourth book, is a love letter to the cornerstone of any good home kitchen: a well-stocked pantry. Its more than 100 recipes are all about turning a handful of store-cupboard staples (think olives, capers, beans, and anchovies) into delicious, elevated dishes.

With chapters covering Snacks & Things to Start with, Soups & Stews, Vegetables & How to Make Them Taste Even Better, Pasta & Noodles, Beans & Grains, and Meats & Some Fishes, this cookbook has cooking inspiration for all occasions – whether you’re cooking for one, two, or a whole dinner party.

Recipes we love: Anchovy Butter; Dilly Bean Stew with Cabbage & Frizzled Onions; Forever-Roasted Squash with Browned Butter Dates; Almost Cassoulet; Caramelised Shallot Pasta; and Crushed-Olive Chicken with Turmeric.

Perfect for: Anyone looking for effortless yet brilliant recipes.