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31 Bold, Exciting International Dishes That Go Beyond the Same Old Dinner Rotation

Who says you can’t explore the world one bite at a time? With 31 international dishes in your rotation, you’ll be trading your regular meals for a passport-worthy experience—minus the long flights. Each dish brings unique, exciting flavors that are way more exciting than your usual go-to. From spicy street food to comforting homestyle cooking, these recipes are guaranteed to keep you on your toes. Your dinner game is about to get a major upgrade—just make sure to have a backup plan for when your family starts asking, “Are we having this again tomorrow?”

Bowls of Easy Pastina Soup garnished with shredded cheese and herbs on a wooden table, with spoons beside them.
Easy Pastina Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When comfort food meets global flavors, Pasta e Fagioli Soup is what you get. It’s a hearty and filling soup that combines savory flavors and satisfying textures in each bite. Ideal for chilly nights, this dish offers a warm hug in a bowl. With the perfect balance of pasta and beans, it’s a meal that keeps you coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The air fryer is the perfect way to make Chicken Cordon Bleu crispy without the mess of deep frying. This dish takes your usual chicken dinner up a notch with a crisp exterior and a juicy, tender interior. It’s a simple twist on a classic, delivering layers of flavor without the hassle of traditional preparation. Once you try this, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with the oven.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding

Yorkshire pudding pie in a white glass dish.
Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Got leftover roast beef? Turn it into a whole new meal with Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding. This dish adds a unique spin to the classic British dish, making it a perfect way to repurpose leftovers. Light and fluffy with a savory twist, it’ll make you rethink what to do with extra beef. It’s an easy yet impressive way to enjoy a completely different meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding

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Slow Cooker Carnitas Board

A platter of pork carnitas board on a wooden table.
Slow Cooker Carnitas Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow Cooker Carnitas Board is the ultimate way to feed a crowd or satisfy your cravings with minimal effort. Tender, juicy carnitas cooked low and slow, served up with all your favorite fixings—what’s not to love? You’ll have everything you need for a fun, interactive meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering. This is the meal that brings everyone to the table.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Carnitas Board

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

A close-up of a hand holding a copycat Taco Bell Cantina chicken burrito.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Who says you can’t recreate your favorite fast food at home? Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito gives you the same flavors you love, but with a personal touch. It’s a fun and satisfying dish, packed with all the tasty fillings you want in a burrito. Skip the drive-thru and make your own version at home for a more filling, customizable option.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe brings together comforting gnocchi and savory sausage in one easy, flavorful dish. It’s a complete meal in a pan, perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty yet simple. The balance of flavors here makes it a standout on your dinner table. Every bite is a perfect combination of rich, savory, and just the right amount of greens.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Ukrainian Potatoes

Ukrainian Potatoes on a white plate.
Ukrainian Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a side dish that’s both hearty and simple, Ukrainian Potatoes will quickly become a favorite. These potatoes are comfort food at its best, with just the right amount of seasoning to bring out their natural flavor. Whether you’re serving them alongside a meat dish or on their own, they’ll easily become a staple on your table. They pair perfectly with a variety of mains, making them versatile and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Round black dish filled with seasoned roasted potato wedges, placed on a white wooden surface alongside a white and yellow striped cloth napkin.
Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you think all potatoes are created equal, Greek Lemon Potatoes will prove you wrong. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish brings a bold and tangy flavor that is anything but basic. It’s the kind of side dish that could steal the show at your next meal. Once you get a taste, you’ll want to add it to your regular dinner lineup.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bright, zesty, and deliciously tangy, Chicken Piccata will quickly become your go-to dinner. The sauce adds the perfect balance of tartness and richness, complementing the tender chicken in each bite. It’s the kind of dish that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to whip up on a weeknight. You’ll be reaching for it again and again whenever you want something quick and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken brings authentic flavors straight to your table without the need for a trip south of the border. The slow-roasting method ensures juicy, tender chicken with a perfect balance of spices. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering smells while it cooks. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply served with rice and beans, it’s always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwich served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches are a great way to enjoy the flavors of Greece in a handheld, easy-to-eat form. The meatballs are savory and full of flavor, paired with a warm pita that wraps it all together. Add some crunchy veggies, and you’ve got a meal that’s satisfying and light at the same time. These are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack when you’re craving something tasty and filling.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

German Yellow Beans

A bowl of German yellow beans on a wooden table.
German Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

German Yellow Beans make a perfect side dish that’s flavorful and easy to prepare. With a rich, savory taste that pairs well with almost anything, they’ll make your dinner feel a little more special. This dish brings out the best in beans, turning them into something you’d actually look forward to eating. Whether with meat or as a standalone side, they’re a great addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans

Polenta with Mascarpone

Polenta with mascarpone in a white bowl.
Polenta with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a creamy, comforting side dish, Polenta with Mascarpone is the way to go. The mascarpone adds a velvety richness that makes the polenta extra smooth and indulgent. This dish is simple, yet it brings a touch of elegance to your dinner table. Whether paired with a meat dish or enjoyed on its own, this is a hearty option that’s satisfying without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone

Coronation Chicken Salad

A pan of coronation chicken salad next to a plate of lettuce and tomatoes.
Coronation Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Coronation Chicken Salad is a British classic that brings a refreshing twist to your salad routine. Creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly light, it’s a perfect dish for lunch or as a crowd-pleasing side at dinner. The combination of textures and flavors will keep you reaching for more. It’s an easy recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal work, great for a busy day or a laid-back meal.
Get the Recipe: Coronation Chicken Salad

Korean Galbi Ribs

Two Korean galbi ribs on a black slate plate with red chopsticks placed beside them.
Korean Galbi Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For a bold and savory meal, Korean Galbi Ribs bring sweet and savory together in a way that will have you craving more. The ribs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect main dish for any dinner. Whether you’re grilling or cooking them in the oven, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. This dish is a must-try for anyone looking to try something new and exciting for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki Sauce with pita dipped in a black bowl.
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re looking for a refreshing, tangy addition to your meal, Authentic Tzatziki Sauce is the answer. This creamy sauce is perfect for dipping, drizzling, or slathering on just about anything. It’s light, refreshing, and adds a cool, flavorful contrast to spicier dishes. Serve it with grilled meats, veggies, or even as a simple spread for bread—this sauce works wonders wherever it goes.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Corn on the cob with garlic parmesan on a black plate.
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs offer a fun twist on the usual corn-on-the-cob experience. With a crispy, cheesy outer layer and sweet, tender corn inside, they’re a hit at any meal or gathering. It’s a simple yet unexpected side dish that’s guaranteed to impress. Plus, with the garlic and Parmesan combo, they offer a punch of flavor that turns ordinary corn into something special.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is the ultimate light yet flavorful meal. With tender shrimp and bright, zesty ingredients, this salad is perfect for any season. It’s refreshing and filling without being too heavy, ideal for lunch or a side dish at dinner. The combination of flavors makes each bite exciting, making this a dish you’ll reach for again and again.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce

Gnocchi in Lemon-Parmesan Sauce on a black plate.
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce combines the comfort of soft gnocchi with a tangy, rich sauce. The lemon adds a refreshing touch, while the Parmesan brings a savory depth that complements the gnocchi perfectly. It’s a dish that’s simple yet feels like a treat. Whether served as a side or a main dish, this meal is sure to become a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce

Horiatiki Salad

Horiatiki Salad with feta cheese on top served on a plate.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Horiatiki Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that brings the flavors of Greece straight to your table. Packed with crisp veggies and flavorful olives, it’s the perfect side to balance out a heavier meal. The simplicity of the ingredients lets the flavors shine through, making it a must-try for anyone who loves Mediterranean cuisine. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore on a serving platter.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chicken Cacciatore is the kind of dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together. The chicken is cooked until tender in a rich sauce full of bold, savory flavors. It’s a hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether served over pasta or with crusty bread, it’s a classic dish that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

A black bowl filled with tabbouleh salad with smoked tomatoes.
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes is a fresh take on the classic Middle Eastern dish, with a smoky twist. The combination of refreshing herbs and the smoky richness of the tomatoes creates a salad that’s both vibrant and satisfying. This dish is light, healthy, and perfect for a summer meal or as a side to a heavier main. It’s an easy way to add variety to your salad lineup.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

A piece of Cuban sandwich casserole on a plate with potato chips.
Cuban Sandwich Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cuban Sandwich Casserole takes the classic Cuban sandwich and transforms it into a hearty, baked dish. Layers of delicious flavors come together in one pan, making this a no-fuss, satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight but still feels special. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make this sooner.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Mediterranean Salmon

A plate of Greek salmon with grape tomatoes and olives.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mediterranean Salmon is a dish that combines vibrant, fresh flavors with the richness of salmon. It’s light yet filling, and it brings the perfect balance of health and taste to your dinner. The salmon’s tender, flaky texture works perfectly with the Mediterranean spices. This dish is great for weeknights or dinner parties, offering something fresh and satisfying in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)

Greek Green Beans served in a white bowl.
Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans). Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Fasolakia Lathera brings the simple joy of fresh green beans to your table, with a Mediterranean twist. This dish lets the natural flavor of the beans shine through while giving them a satisfying depth of flavor. It’s the perfect side to complement a variety of mains, from grilled meats to fish. Whether you’re new to Greek cooking or a seasoned pro, these green beans will easily become a staple.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Warm and creamy, Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup is comfort food at its finest. This soup is hearty and filling, perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch. It has all the rich, creamy goodness you love, with just the right balance of flavors. If you’re looking for something easy yet satisfying, this soup will hit the spot every time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

Two bowls of soup on the counter.
Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone is a cozy, creamy soup with a smoky twist. The tomatoes are roasted to bring out their natural sweetness, and the mascarpone adds a velvety texture. It’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly days or when you need something comforting, this soup is a twist on the classic you’ll definitely want to try.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

Pastitsio

A square piece of pastitsio dish served on a stack of black plates.
Pastitsio. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Pastitsio is a hearty, comforting Greek casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Layers of pasta, ground meat, and béchamel sauce come together in a deliciously rich and filling dish. It’s a Mediterranean take on the classic lasagna, with a unique flavor profile that sets it apart. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in Greek households.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

Cullen Skink

Cullen Skink in two bowls with crusty bread in the background.
Cullen Skink. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a comforting and hearty soup, Cullen Skink is a Scottish classic that’s perfect for colder days. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a filling meal on its own. The balance of smoked fish and creamy texture is the highlight of this dish. If you’re looking for something a little different yet incredibly satisfying, this soup is worth a try.
Get the Recipe: Cullen Skink

Classic Pork Souvlaki

Three pieces of Pork Souvlaki with a bowl of white sauce and pieces of flatbread on a black slate serving board.
Classic Pork Souvlaki. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Classic Pork Souvlaki brings the flavors of Greece to your grill or skillet, delivering tender, juicy pork with a perfect char. The marinated pork is full of bold flavors that make it stand out in any meal. It’s simple, yet packs a punch with every bite. Whether served with pita, rice, or veggies, this dish will transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pork Souvlaki

Easy Pastina Soup

Bowls of Easy Pastina Soup garnished with shredded cheese and herbs on a wooden table, with spoons beside them.
Easy Pastina Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Easy Pastina Soup is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for a quick, simple meal. The tiny pasta floats in a rich, flavorful broth that warms you up from the inside. It’s an uncomplicated dish that’s full of heart, and it’s perfect for those days when you need something simple and satisfying. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want a cozy meal, this soup is just what you need.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pastina Soup

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