The New Lasagna Cookbook

While the trend of single-subject cookbooks continues, one might still question an entire volume dedicated to the seemingly simple dish, lasagna. Luckily for home cooks, this title isn’t just gimmick. Bruscino Sanchez, owner of Sweet Maria’s bakery in Connecticut and author of multiple Sweet Maria’s cookbooks, goes beyond sugar and flour in her latest collection. Straightforward, well-organized recipes are divided into easy-to-follow numbered steps (most fewer than 10), guiding even the amateur through a hearty one-dish meal. The “Classic Lasagnas” chapter includes just what it promises with crowd-pleasing selections such as Lasagna Bolognese and Vegetarian Lasagna. While the “New Flavors” chapter showcases creative gems (Asparagus, Goat Cheese, and Lemon Lasagna, and Lobster Lasagna with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce), international flavor–inspired dishes such as Chinese Pork and Scallion Lasagna, and Middle Eastern Lasagna, and a surprising Breakfast Lasagna feel like a bit of a stretch, trying to cover all flavor bases. Short, yet worthy, chapters on “Starters,” “Salads and Dressings” and “Desserts” make it possible to create a balanced, three-course meal from this concise and upbeat title. (Sept.)