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31 No-Fuss International Dishes That Let You Cook Big, Bold Flavors Without the Extra Work

Forget spending hours perfecting a dish when you can get the same results with half the effort. These 31 no-fuss international recipes make cooking feel less like a chore and more like a shortcut to great food. From zesty street food favorites to comforting classics, every dish is big on flavor and low on stress. No fancy techniques, no hard-to-find ingredients—just easy meals that taste like you tried way harder than you actually did.

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.

Comforting and packed with flavor, Pasta e Fagioli Soup is the kind of meal that warms you up from the inside out. It’s rich, filling, and comes together easily, making it perfect for a quick, hearty dinner. No complicated steps or fancy techniques—just simple ingredients working together for big results. One bowl is satisfying enough, but good luck stopping there.
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.

Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu gives you the classic flavors without the deep frying. The air fryer does all the heavy lifting, so you get a crunchy coating without the mess. It’s a no-fuss way to bring a restaurant-style dish to your table with minimal effort. Whether it’s for a special dinner or just a weeknight win, this one hits the mark.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Piccata

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

Bright, tangy, and full of bold flavor, Chicken Piccata delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. The sauce is rich yet light, adding just the right balance of acidity and depth. No complicated steps, just simple ingredients coming together for a classic dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

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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.

Let the slow cooker do the work with Slow Cooker Carnitas Board, a hands-off way to make something impressive. The meat turns out tender, flavorful, and perfect for loading onto tacos, bowls, or plates. With minimal prep and maximum payoff, it’s a stress-free way to feed a crowd. Set it, forget it, and watch everyone dig in.
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.

Skip the drive-thru and make Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito at home with ease. It’s packed with bold flavors, creamy sauces, and just the right amount of crunch. No complicated prep, no weird ingredients—just a simple way to recreate a fast-food favorite. It’s just as good, if not better, without the extra trip.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

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.

Originally made for royalty, Coronation Chicken Salad is a flavorful dish that feels fancy but requires almost no effort. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with warm spices that make it stand out. Whether it’s in a sandwich, on a salad, or straight from the bowl, it’s always a good idea. It’s history and flavor all in one bite—without the need for a banquet hall.
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.

Sticky, smoky, and packed with umami, Korean Galbi Ribs bring big flavors with minimal effort. A quick marinade does most of the work, leaving you with tender, juicy meat that practically falls off the bone. Whether grilled or cooked indoors, they’re the kind of dish that makes you look like you spent hours in the kitchen. No need to overcomplicate it—just serve and enjoy.
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.

Cool, creamy, and packed with fresh flavor, Authentic Tzatziki Sauce is the perfect companion to almost anything. It’s made with simple ingredients that come together in minutes, no cooking required. Spread it, dip it, or drizzle it—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. Once it’s on the table, expect it to disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding

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

Turning leftovers into something special is easy with Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding. The crispy, golden-brown shell makes the perfect base for the hearty filling, bringing a classic British dish to life without extra work. It’s a great way to avoid food waste while making something that feels brand new. Just serve it up, and no one will guess it started with leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding

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.

There’s something about Greek Lemon Potatoes that makes them impossible to resist. They’re crispy on the edges, soft in the middle, and packed with bold, tangy flavor. The best part? They cook up easily with minimal effort but taste like they took all day. Serve them alongside anything, and they’ll probably steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Ukrainian Potatoes

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

Rich and comforting, Ukrainian Potatoes bring simple ingredients together for maximum flavor. Whether served as a side or the main event, they’re a no-fuss way to make a hearty, satisfying dish. The best part? They take little effort but deliver serious comfort food vibes. Perfect for when you want something filling without a lot of work.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian 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.

Crispy, hearty, and full of flavor, Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe is a one-pan wonder. The gnocchi cooks up with golden edges while the sausage and greens add richness and balance. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but comes together without the fuss. Easy to make, hard to stop eating.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Polenta with Mascarpone

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

Creamy and comforting, Polenta with Mascarpone brings a smooth, rich texture without the extra work. It’s simple to prepare but tastes like something straight out of a high-end kitchen. Whether served as a side or the star of the meal, it pairs well with just about anything. A little effort, big payoff, and no complicated steps.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone

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 flavors of the classic sandwich, but in a fuss-free, layered dish—Cuban Sandwich Casserole makes mealtime easier. The combination of crispy textures and savory fillings delivers everything you love about the original. No need for a panini press or careful assembly, just bake and serve. Perfect for feeding a crowd without the extra hassle.
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.

Bold, fresh, and full of flavor, Mediterranean Salmon makes seafood night easy. The seasoning brings out the richness of the fish without overpowering it, keeping things balanced. No complicated techniques, just a simple way to create a dish that looks and tastes impressive. Serve it up, and you’ll wonder why you don’t make it more often.
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.

Simple, satisfying, and full of Mediterranean flavor, Fasolakia Lathera is proof that green beans don’t have to be boring. This dish brings together tender vegetables with a rich, aromatic sauce that’s both hearty and fresh. No fancy techniques required—just let the ingredients do the work. It’s a side dish that might just steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)

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.

Crunchy, cheesy, and packed with garlicky goodness, Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs are a fun way to switch up your side dish game. They cook up quickly, making them perfect for a no-fuss meal. Whether grilled, roasted, or air-fried, they’re full of flavor with minimal effort. Just grab, bite, and enjoy—no utensils required.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

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

Juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy, Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken makes dinnertime stress-free. The slow cooking does all the work, leaving you with tender meat that’s bursting with spice and depth. No constant monitoring, no complicated prep—just set it up and let it cook. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like a lot of effort, but isn’t.
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.

Quick, filling, and packed with flavor, Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches make an easy meal with no extra hassle. The meatballs come together fast and pair perfectly with fresh toppings and soft pita bread. No need for complicated prep—just assemble and enjoy. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that still feels special.
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.

Simple but full of flavor, German Yellow Beans turn an everyday side dish into something worth talking about. The combination of tender beans and bold seasoning makes them a standout on any plate. No complicated prep, no unnecessary steps—just an easy way to make vegetables exciting. Serve them once, and they’ll become a regular request.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow 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.

Rich, creamy, and loaded with comforting flavors, Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup brings a restaurant favorite to your kitchen. The smooth texture and hearty bite make it perfect for a cozy meal. No complicated prep, just a simple way to enjoy a classic dish without leaving the house. One bowl is never enough.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Chicken Cacciatore

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

Hearty, flavorful, and packed with depth, Chicken Cacciatore is a no-fuss dish with big results. The slow cooking does all the work, letting the flavors blend perfectly. No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps—just a classic meal that’s always a good idea. Serve it up with anything, and it works every time.
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.

Fresh, vibrant, and packed with smoky depth, Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes takes a classic to the next level. The mix of textures and flavors makes every bite interesting. No heavy dressings or complicated steps—just simple ingredients that shine. A great side dish that easily steals the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Pastitsio

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

Rich, layered, and full of bold flavors, Pastitsio is Greek comfort food at its best. The creamy topping and hearty base come together for a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. No need for complicated techniques—just a simple way to bring a classic to your table. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

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.

Juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor, Classic Pork Souvlaki is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big results. The marinade does most of the work, leaving you with tender, well-seasoned bites. No need for fancy equipment or long prep times—just quick cooking with maximum taste. Wrap it, plate it, or eat it straight off the skewer.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pork Souvlaki

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.

Light, fresh, and full of bold flavors, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is a quick, no-fuss meal. The orzo keeps it hearty while the shrimp adds the perfect amount of protein. No need for complicated dressings or long prep—everything comes together easily. It’s great for a quick lunch, side dish, or a simple dinner that still feels special.
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.

Bright, creamy, and full of rich flavor, Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce is a quick meal with restaurant-level taste. The lemon adds freshness, while the Parmesan brings a rich, salty balance. No need for complicated steps—this dish comes together in no time. It’s the kind of comfort food that’s easy to make but hard to forget.
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.

Fresh, crisp, and full of Mediterranean flavor, Horiatiki Salad is as easy as it gets. No need for fancy dressings or extra steps—just simple ingredients doing all the work. It’s perfect as a side or a light meal, bringing bright flavors to any table. The kind of dish that proves simple food is often the best food.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

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

Velvety, rich, and packed with depth, Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone takes a classic comfort dish up a notch. The smokiness adds something extra, while the mascarpone keeps it creamy and smooth. No need for heavy ingredients or long cook times—this soup delivers flavor with minimal effort. Serve it on its own or with a side, and it’s a win either way.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

Cullen Skink

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

Creamy, smoky, and packed with bold flavors, Cullen Skink is a Scottish soup that delivers big taste with little effort. The rich broth and tender ingredients create a filling meal that’s easy to put together. No complicated techniques, just simple steps for a satisfying dish. Perfect for cold nights or whenever you need something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Cullen Skink

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.

Light, comforting, and perfect for any time of day, Easy Pastina Soup is a no-fuss way to bring warmth to the table. The tiny pasta makes it hearty, while the simple broth keeps it light. No complicated ingredients or long cook times—just an easy, satisfying meal. Great for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or anytime you need a little comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pastina Soup

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