North Central resident Rita Romano, a native of Italy, has released her third cookbook celebrating the flavors of her homeland.

Romano, who lived in Bari, Naples and La Spezia (near Genoa), developed an appreciation for the delectable foods found in these diverse regions. A former cooking school instructor, Romano shares a collection of the regional recipes which she calls “treasures” in her new book, “Ciao Tesoro.”

The cookbook features 175 recipes—many accompanied by a photograph—for lovers of Italian cuisine. Despite the relative simplicity of these dishes, they are elegant enough to be served at dinner parties as well as family meals.

The cookbook is organized according to the categories of food—whether it’s a soul-warming Ham and Potato Gratin, a quick sauté, or a rich Tiramisu for dessert. Romano’s book also features recipes for liqueurs to add the finishing touch to a meal.

“Ciao Tesoro” is now available for sale on Kindle, Nook and Kobo for $9.99. Romano’s two other cookbooks, “Sauces for Pasta Lovers” and “Main Courses from Italy,” also are available online. For more information, visit www.ritasrecipes.com.