By skipping steps or glossing over basic techniques, too many cookbooks leave the reader with nothing more than vivid photographs of what their dishes could have looked like. For Marco Canora, of acclaimed Hearth and Insieme restaurants in New York, real success begins with a few key techniques and excellent ingredients.

Each section in Salt to Taste starts with a lesson aimed at developing a particular skill, avoiding common mistakes, and revealing the tips and tricks a chef uses to ensure a perfect outcome. These recipes are designed to develop cooks’ palates and instincts so they have more control over what ends up on their plates.

Whether he’s describing scaloppine or outlining the steps for the best risotto, Canora takes nothing for granted as he guides the reader through such classics as Spaghetti Bolognese, Linguine with Clams, Tuscan Eggplant Parmigiana, and a selection of modern American and Italian standards. His trademark passion for simplicity and comfort will inspire readers to bring out the best of their fresh, local ingredients. For any chef--novice or veteran--looking to cook delicious food with confidence and creativity, just add Salt to Taste.