The story takes place in the town of Carpi, during the 1970s. Marco, a young man full of dreams and passions, tries to find his way amidst the cultural and political turmoil of the era. A lover of cooking, he believes that there exists a "perfect recipe" for life, a way to make the right choices and achieve success and happiness. This belief leads him to seek advice from the renowned chef Sal Moriglio, who offers him an unexpected tip about the magic ingredient for perfect dishes. Enthusiastic, Marco embarks on a journey of experimentation in the kitchen but faces many challenges. His interaction with the chef opens his eyes to deeper concepts concerning choices, experience, and the value of adaptability. The story explores universal themes such as personal growth, the quest for simple solutions to complex problems, and the importance of reflection in life's decisions.