Exploring new foods can often feel like a treasure hunt, and with dishes like the Shirazi Salad and other international specialties, you’re guaranteed to discover flavors you’ve never encountered before. These 15 meals come from various countries, each with its own story and tradition behind the preparation. By including any of these dishes in your meal plan, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re bringing a piece of another culture into your home. It’s a fantastic way to introduce your family and friends to the wide, wonderful world of food beyond your local favorites.
Slow Cooker German Pot Roast
Imagine your kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of tender beef that has been simmering for hours. It’s a relaxed Sunday affair where all you do is set it and forget it. By the time it’s ready, you’ve got a one-pot comfort meal that warms you from the inside out. You may not have heard much about it, but it’s perfect for when you want something hearty.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker German Pot Roast
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
Picture corn on the cob in a whole new light with these irresistible slices that have a hint of Parmesan and the robust flavor of garlic. Whether grilled or baked, each rib is a crispy, cheesy delight waiting to be pulled apart and enjoyed. You probably didn’t add this twist on a classic to your summer barbecue menu, but it’s a game-changer. Gather your friends for this unexpected side that’s easy to make and fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
Slow Cooker Carnitas Board
After spending the day enveloped in a blend of spices and aromas, these pork morsels fall apart with just the nudge of a fork. Lay them out on a board with an array of accompaniments, and let everyone build their own tacos or sliders. It turns dinner time into interactive fun, and it’s likely something you haven’t had the pleasure of trying yet. Trust that it makes for a memorable meal with minimal effort on your part.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Carnitas Board
Cuban Sandwich Casserole
Switch up your casserole game with layers of flavors inspired by the streets of Havana. It’s an easy bake that melds all the elements of a classic Cuban sandwich in a form you can scoop and serve. You didn’t know you could enjoy these zesty flavors in a dish perfect for potlucks and family dinners. It’s time to add this one to your repertoire for a twist on the traditional.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole
Coronation Chicken Salad
Transport your lunchtime to something a bit more royal with this twist on a British classic. It brings a touch of elegance to your sandwich or salad without requiring the crown jewels. It’s not your ordinary chicken salad, yet it has all the elements of a sophisticated, no-fuss meal. This one might just become a new favorite in your weekly meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Coronation Chicken Salad
German Yellow Beans
Bring a spoonful of this hearty vegetable side to your table and watch it disappear quickly. Often overlooked in favor of greener varieties, these beans offer a comforting taste of Germany. It’s a simple way to switch things up a bit and introduce a new tradition to your meals. This classic deserves a spot in your go-to side dish collection.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This baked beauty is a deconstructed take on a French favorite. Fusing chicken, ham, and cheese with a creamy sauce, it’s comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s not just your usual casserole; it’s a weekday meal with a touch of class. Next time you’re in a dinner rut, remember this one is sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Montreal Smoked Meat Hash
Start your day with a hearty plate that combines cured meat with the earthiness of potatoes. It hails from Canadian delis and will surely impress those looking for a breakfast with a twist. You might not have tried it yet, but it’s perfect for brunch or even dinner. This dish is a nod to classic diner fare with a unique, smoky twist.
Get the Recipe: Montreal Smoked Meat Hash
Ukrainian Potatoes
These potatoes are a comforting staple, subtly flavored, and just waiting to be discovered by your palate. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest dishes are the ones that stick with you. Given time, they turn into a masterpiece of texture, a testament to the beauty of traditional cooking. Bringing this dish into your home introduces a bite of Eastern European heritage to your diet.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Chicken Piccata
Bright and tangy, this dish is a refreshing departure from heavier, cream-based sauces. It pairs beautifully with pasta or rice, making it versatile enough to be a weeknight staple. If you’re on the lookout for a new chicken dish to explore, this may just become your new go-to. It combines simplicity with a burst of flavor that promises to rejuvenate your dinner plans.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata
Dutch oven Carnitas
Get ready to uncover meat that’s crispy on the outside yet succulent on the inside. Cooking low and slow in a Dutch oven yields results that some say are better than what you’d find at a restaurant. While it might not be on your radar, it’s a festive dish that will center your next gathering around the table. Each mouthful is an indulgence in richness and texture.
Get the Recipe: Dutch oven Carnitas
Polenta with Mascarpone
This creamy concoction offers both comfort and a touch of luxury. It’s not every day you find a side dish that effortlessly complements both bold and subtle flavors. If creaminess is what you crave, this one’s for you, with mascarpone bringing its silky-smooth richness to the table. Perfect for those seeking something different from their usual starches.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
In this skillet, you’ll find pillowy gnocchi sautéed until golden and paired with savory sausage and bitter-sweet broccoli rabe. It’s a one-pan wonder that you may not have considered before. It makes for a comforting and balanced meal, all cooked in the same pan for convenience. For those who love their pasta with a twist, this is a dish worth exploring.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
Shirazi Salad
Say hello to a refreshing bite hailing from Persian cuisine – crisp, diced vegetables that wake up any meal. It’s something lighter to balance out heavier mains, although you may not have tried it alongside your favorite dishes yet. It adds a burst of freshness to your plate, ideal for hot days or when you simply crave something invigorating. Perfect for introducing a subtle new taste to your salads roster.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Enjoy a light yet satisfying blend of orzo pasta and shrimp, with flavors reminiscent of the Mediterranean coast. It’s a vibrant salad that’s easily a meal in itself, though it may not yet be a staple at your dinner table. Served chilled or at room temperature, it’s remarkably versatile for picnics or dinners. This dish is a nod to summer flavors any time of the year.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp