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25 International Dishes That Let You Ditch the Takeout Without Sacrificing a Single Bite of Flavor

Takeout is great, until it’s not. These 25 international dishes make it easy to ditch the delivery apps and still get that flavor hit you crave. Each one is simple enough to pull off on a weeknight but impressive enough to fool your most discerning friends. Consider this your cheat code for global cuisine without the awkward driver small talk.

A white bowl filled with panzanella salad, featuring toasted bread cubes, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil leaves, is shown with a fork.
Panzanella Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ukrainian Potatoes

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

This recipe makes potatoes something worth looking forward to. Ukrainian Potatoes bring enough flavor to stand alongside any main dish, no takeout needed. It’s a comforting dish that feels familiar but with a bit more character. Great for weeknight dinners that need a little extra attention without a lot of extra work.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding

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

Don’t let leftovers go to waste when you can turn them into something better. Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding makes it easy to turn yesterday’s dinner into today’s star. It’s a smart way to stretch meals and impress without ordering in. A win for anyone who hates throwing food away but loves fresh dinners.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding

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Polenta with Mascarpone

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

This one brings a creamy, satisfying side that pairs with a wide range of dishes. Polenta with Mascarpone feels indulgent without being complicated. It’s perfect for dinners when you want something comforting but don’t want to dial delivery. Easy to love and easier to make.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone

Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)

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

Skip the usual sides and add something fresh to the plate. Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans) brings a simple but solid flavor profile that pairs well with plenty of meals. It’s a great way to bring variety without fuss or extra trips to the store. This recipe proves vegetables can be easy to enjoy at home.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

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

You don’t need to call for takeout when bold flavors like this are on the menu. Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken delivers a punch that satisfies without complications. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who wants a familiar dish but fresh enough to keep dinners interesting. Leftovers are a bonus for anyone not into cooking twice.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

German Yellow Beans

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

When it comes to sides that hold their own, this recipe hits the mark. German Yellow Beans offer a straightforward, solid option that doesn’t overwhelm the plate. It’s a no-fuss way to get a taste of international flavors without extra effort. Perfect for anyone wanting a clean, reliable side dish for dinner.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans

Slow Cooker Carnitas Board

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

Set it and forget it might sound like a gimmick, but this recipe actually delivers. Slow Cooker Carnitas Board brings big flavors without needing a lot of babysitting. Perfect for meals that feed a crowd or keep you stocked for days. This makes skipping takeout feel like a smart move.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Carnitas Board

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

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

Sometimes, a simple sauce changes everything. Authentic Tzatziki Sauce adds fresh flavor without complicating the meal. It’s a reliable sidekick that makes homemade feel just as good as any restaurant dip. Perfect for upgrading meals without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

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.

Potatoes with punch, without the wait for delivery. Greek Lemon Potatoes offer a bright, tangy side that holds up on any plate. It’s a smart way to add interest to weeknight dinners without fuss. This recipe makes skipping takeout easy and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

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.

This skillet meal combines hearty and fresh in a way that makes takeout feel unnecessary. Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe offers a satisfying, well-rounded dish that’s simple to prepare. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something filling without extra steps. Reliable comfort without delivery.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Chicken Piccata

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

You don’t have to rely on restaurants to get bold, bright flavors on your plate. Chicken Piccata stands out as a classic that’s approachable and full of personality. It’s a solid option for weeknight meals when you want something reliable but exciting. This recipe proves that homemade can beat takeout any day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

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.

Ribs usually mean takeout, but not with this recipe. Korean Galbi Ribs bring serious flavor that works just as well on your own table. It’s the kind of dish that makes dinner feel like an event without the fuss. A good reason to skip the delivery driver tonight.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

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

Sandwiches don’t have to be boring when they’re this good. Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches pack enough flavor to replace any takeout option. They’re perfect for quick meals that feel like a treat, without extra trips outside. A convenient, filling choice for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

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.

This salad manages to be fresh and smoky in one package without fuss. Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes is bright, satisfying, and easy to pair with any meal. It’s a solid way to add something different to the table without ordering in. Great for anyone wanting variety without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

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.

Grilled or cooked indoors, this recipe makes takeout souvlaki unnecessary. Classic Pork Souvlaki delivers bold flavor with a familiar feel. It’s great for dinners when you want something straightforward but impressive. This recipe shows that homemade can match your favorite restaurant dishes.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pork Souvlaki

Mediterranean Salmon

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

When fresh and flavorful is what you want, this recipe delivers. Mediterranean Salmon feels like a treat without the restaurant price or wait. It’s a simple way to bring bold international flavors into your routine. Great for anyone wanting a no-fuss dinner upgrade.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

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.

This salad makes for a satisfying meal that doesn’t rely on delivery shortcuts. Coronation Chicken Salad combines flavors in a way that’s both fresh and filling. It’s ideal for lunches or light dinners that feel anything but boring. Perfect for ditching takeout without missing a beat.
Get the Recipe: Coronation Chicken Salad

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.

When it comes to sides that get noticed, this one fits the bill. Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs bring bold, savory flavor without the fuss. It’s an easy addition that feels special but requires minimal effort. A smart alternative to ordering in when you want something different.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Hot Reuben Dip

Cheesy, golden-brown Hot Reuben dip in a cast-iron skillet, topped with chopped pickles and fresh parsley, served with slices of marbled rye bread.
Hot Reuben Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dip takes a classic sandwich and turns it into a crowd-pleaser. Hot Reuben Dip brings bold flavor and easy prep, making takeout unnecessary. It’s a perfect option for parties or casual dinners that feel elevated. A smart choice for anyone wanting something quick and satisfying without ordering in.
Get the Recipe: Hot Reuben Dip

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.

This soup makes it clear that homemade beats delivery every time. Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup is hearty, filling, and easy to enjoy. It’s the kind of recipe that turns a simple meal into something memorable. Perfect for anyone tired of cold takeout containers.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Pastitsio

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

This layered dish brings comfort and richness without the restaurant price tag. Pastitsio is filling and satisfying, perfect for meals that feed a crowd or leftovers. It’s a smart choice when takeout feels like too much hassle. Home-cooked dinners can have serious flavor and plenty of personality.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

Horiatiki Salad

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

Sometimes, simple is best, and this salad proves it. Horiatiki Salad brings fresh, straightforward flavor that complements many meals. It’s easy to make and a great way to add variety without extra steps. Perfect for ditching delivery and keeping meals light and bright.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Chicken Cacciatore

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

This dish proves you don’t need to order out for classic comfort. Chicken Cacciatore offers bold, familiar flavors that come together easily. It’s a satisfying option when you want a reliable dinner that doesn’t feel basic. A great way to show that homemade can be just as good as takeout.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

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.

This salad balances fresh and filling in a way that feels special without fuss. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is a great choice for meals that don’t feel like a chore. It’s easy enough for busy nights but impressive enough to skip delivery. A solid option for quick, flavorful dinners.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

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

All the elements of a favorite sandwich come together in one dish. Cuban Sandwich Casserole is a no-fuss way to get big flavor without waiting for delivery. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying. This recipe makes homemade feel effortless.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

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