No passport needed! Discover 19 easy international dishes that will take your taste buds on a world tour. Simple recipes, exotic flavors, and culinary adventure await!
Craving a culinary adventure but short on time?
Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed journey with these 19 international dishes that are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor.
From the spicy streets of Thailand to the comforting kitchens of Italy, this list will whisk you away around the globe, one bite at a time.
Each dish is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet delicious enough to impress your friends at a dinner party.
1. Thai Green Curry
Thai Green Curry is a delightful dance of flavors, balancing the spice of green chili paste with the creaminess of coconut milk.
This dish is packed with fresh vegetables and your choice of protein, making it a wholesome meal that warms the soul.
Serve it with a side of jasmine rice or noodles to soak up that luscious sauce, and you’ve got a dish that feels like a warm hug.
Plus, it’s incredibly quick to whip up, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish, which makes it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or a beginner, this curry is a must-try!
2. Italian Caprese Salad
The Caprese Salad is a classic Italian dish that sings with freshness and simplicity.
With just three main ingredients—ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil—you’ll enjoy a dish that makes the most of quality produce.
Drizzle it with a splash of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, and you’ve got a summer staple that’s as easy as pie.
Perfect as a light appetizer or a side dish, this salad celebrates the beauty of ingredients in their purest form.
It’s an easy way to impress your guests while keeping things light and refreshing.
3. Spanish Gazpacho
When the heat is on, there’s nothing quite like a chilled bowl of Spanish Gazpacho to refresh you!
This cold soup brings together tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and a splash of vinegar, resulting in a symphony of flavors.
Blend your ingredients until smooth, and chill it for about an hour for the best taste.
Serve it with diced vegetables on top for an added crunch.
This dish not only cools you down but is also a fantastic way to use up fresh summer produce!
4. Mexican Tacos
Tacos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser and can be tailored to suit any taste!
Start with soft or crispy tortillas, and fill them with your choice of seasoned meat, beans, or grilled vegetables.
Top with fresh salsa, avocado, and a sprinkle of lime juice for that authentic Mexican touch.
They’re quick to assemble and are perfect for taco nights with friends or family.
Try making a taco bar where everyone can build their own masterpiece, making for a fun and interactive dinner experience.
5. Indian Butter Chicken
Indian Butter Chicken is a creamy, dreamy dish that’s perfect for anyone who loves flavor.
Marinated chicken is cooked in a rich tomato and butter sauce, resulting in a dish that’s incredibly comforting.
Serve it with fluffy naan or steamed basmati rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
This dish may sound complex, but it can be ready in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
With its warm spices and silky texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
6. Japanese Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki Chicken is a sweet and savory delight that can be enjoyed in various ways!
Cook your chicken pieces in a homemade teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar until caramelized, giving it that signature glaze.
Serve it over rice with steamed broccoli or on a bed of salad for a lighter option.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can use tofu or even shrimp for different flavors!
Quick to prepare, this dish is perfect for weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
7. Greek Spanakopita
Spanakopita, a delightful Greek pastry filled with spinach and feta, is a savory treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day!
Layer crispy phyllo pastry with a rich mixture of sautéed spinach, garlic, and tangy feta for a flavor explosion.
These flaky hand-held goodies make for a fantastic appetizer or snack.
Perfectly golden and crispy, they’re sure to impress at any gathering.
And the best part? They can be made ahead of time and baked fresh right before serving!
8. Moroccan Couscous
Moroccan Couscous is a fluffy, flavorful grain dish that’s perfect as a side or a main course!
Infused with spices like cumin and cinnamon, it pairs wonderfully with vegetables and meats.
Add in some dried fruits and nuts for a delightful crunch and sweetness.
Couscous cooks quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights while still offering an exotic twist on your dinner table.
Dress it up with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor, and you have a dish that’s both hearty and vibrant!
9. Chinese Fried Rice
Easy and customizable, Chinese Fried Rice is perfect for a quick meal using leftover rice!
Stir-fry your choice of vegetables, scrambled eggs, and cooked rice in a hot wok along with soy sauce and sesame oil for flavor.
Add in your favorite proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier dish.
This dish is as versatile as it is delicious and can be ready in under 30 minutes!
It’s a great way to use up ingredients and one of those dishes that everyone loves!
10. Brazilian Feijoada
Feijoada is a hearty Brazilian stew that embodies comfort and warmth.
Made with black beans and a variety of meats like pork and sausage, this dish is traditionally served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.
It’s the perfect dish to share with family or friends during gatherings, offering a taste of authentic Brazilian culture.
While it takes a bit longer to cook, the process is worth it as the flavors meld beautifully over time.
This dish makes for incredible leftovers, too!
11. Korean Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a visually stunning and nutritious Korean dish made up of rice topped with colorful vegetables, meats, and a fried egg.
Each ingredient is prepared separately and beautifully arranged, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
Drizzle with gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a perfect kick!
This dish is incredibly versatile; you can make it vegetarian by skipping the meat or using tofu.
It’s a delicious way to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures in one bowl!
12. Lebanese Hummus
Hummus is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine that’s creamy and oh-so-dippable!
Made from blended chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, it’s a delightful spread that pairs well with pita bread or fresh veggies.
You can whip it up in just a few minutes, making it a perfect appetizer for any gathering.
Add toppings like olive oil, paprika, or roasted pine nuts to elevate your hummus game!
It’s nutritious, filling, and a fantastic source of plant-based protein.
13. Russian Borscht
Borscht is a comforting beet soup that hails from Eastern Europe, known for its striking crimson color.
This hearty soup is loaded with vegetables and often served with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs.
It’s not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious!
Whether enjoyed hot or chilled, this dish is versatile and perfect for any season.
Making borscht at home allows you to adjust the flavors and ingredients to your liking, creating a warm bowl of goodness!
14. Turkish Kebab
Turkish Kebabs are a delicious and fun way to enjoy grilled meats, bursting with flavor!
Marinated chunks of meat are skewered and grilled, often served with warm pita and a side of fresh salad.
This dish is perfect for summer grilling and can be made with chicken, beef, or vegetables for a great vegetarian option.
Pair your kebabs with tzatziki or hummus for added flavor!
It’s an easy and interactive meal that everyone will love, plus it makes for a great party dish.
15. Filipino Adobo
Adobo is considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines, loved for its rich, savory flavor.
Made with chicken or pork simmered in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, it’s a comforting dish enjoyed with rice.
The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld together, making it a great make-ahead option.
Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
This dish is a great introduction to Filipino cuisine and sure to win over anyone who tries it!
16. Persian Fesenjan
Fesenjan is a unique Persian stew that combines the nutty flavor of walnuts with pomegranate, creating a rich, sweet, and tangy sauce.
Typically made with chicken or duck, this dish becomes a festival of flavors that pairs beautifully with fluffy rice.
It’s a bit more involved, but the outcome is worth the effort as it tantalizes your taste buds.
Perfect for special occasions, this dish showcases the beauty of Persian cuisine and is sure to impress your guests.
Serve it with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor!
17. Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Jerk Chicken brings the heat and flavor of the Caribbean right to your kitchen!
Marinated with a spicy jerk seasoning, this dish is grilled to perfection, giving it a smoky, flavorful crust.
Serve it with rice and peas or a refreshing mango salsa for a complete meal.
The spice blend can be adjusted to suit your taste, making it as fiery or mild as you like.
This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners, offering a taste of island life in every bite!
18. German Sauerbraten
Sauerbraten, a pot roast, is often referred to as Germany’s national dish, bringing a taste of the old world to your dinner table.
Marinated in a mixture of vinegar, water, and spices for several days, this dish becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
Serve it with red cabbage and potato dumplings for a classic meal that’s both hearty and comforting.
While it requires some prep time, the result is a dish that’s perfect for special occasions or Sunday dinners with family.
The deep flavors and satisfying textures will surely impress!
19. Australian Lamingtons
No international food tour would be complete without a sweet treat!
Lamingtons are delightful Australian cakes dipped in chocolate and rolled in coconut, making them a perfect indulgence.
These little squares of goodness are surprisingly easy to make and can be served as a dessert or a snack.
Try adding a layer of jam for an extra burst of flavor!
They’re perfect for afternoon tea or a sweet finish to any meal, and everyone will be asking for seconds!
Finally
From spicy curries to refreshing salads, these 19 easy international dishes are bound to excite your palate and expand your cooking repertoire.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply whipping up something special for your family, each dish offers a taste of the world that everyone can enjoy.
Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and inspire others to take their taste buds on a world tour, too!
