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    Home / Roundups

    30 international dishes that expand your dinner routine

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Apr 8, 2026 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    I like mixing in international dishes when dinner starts to feel repetitive, because it brings new flavors and ideas without making things complicated. These kinds of meals help me try something different while still keeping cooking simple and manageable. If you're looking to refresh your routine and keep meals interesting, this is an easy way to do it.

    A hand dipping a tortilla chip into a bowl of cheesy dip with diced tomatoes and herbs.Pin
    Beef Questo Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes

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    Fish Stew with Chorizo

    A bowl of soup with sausage and fish.Pin
    Fish Stew with Chorizo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This stew comes together in under an hour and combines seafood with bold spices. It works well as a hearty dinner with minimal prep. The mix of ingredients introduces new flavors while still being easy to manage at home. It is a strong option when you want to bring something different to your usual dinner routine.
    Get the Recipe: Fish Stew with Chorizo

    Coconut Panna Cotta

    A slice of white, creamy panna cotta topped with a fresh strawberry slice on a white plate, with a textured napkin beside it.Pin
    Coconut Panna Cotta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dessert sets in the fridge and requires very little hands-on time. It is simple to prepare and easy to serve in individual portions. The smooth texture and coconut flavor bring a different touch to the table. It works well when you want to try something outside your usual dessert options.
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Panna Cotta

    Aloo Gobi Masala

    Aloo gobi masala in skillet with naan bread.Pin
    Aloo Gobi Masala. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks in about 40 minutes and uses simple pantry ingredients. It combines potatoes and cauliflower for a filling meal. The spices introduce a different flavor profile that keeps dinner interesting. It is a great option when you want to add variety to your weekly meals.
    Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

    Ube Ice Cream

    A close-up of purple ice cream in a bowl, with a spoon scooping out a portion.Pin
    Ube Ice Cream. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This ice cream can be prepared ahead and stored for convenience. It offers a smooth texture and a distinct flavor that stands out. The unique ingredient brings a new element to dessert time. It is a good choice when you want to explore something different from regular ice cream.
    Get the Recipe: Ube Ice Cream

    Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

    Two tacos on a plate with a bowl of guacamole.Pin
    Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks slowly with very little effort and is ready when you need it. It is great for busy days and can feed a group easily. The flavors bring a change from everyday meals while still being easy to prepare. It works well when you want to try something new without extra work.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

    Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

    Roasted tomatoes seasoned with herbs and spices, served on a white plate garnished with parsley.Pin
    Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These tomatoes cook quickly and require minimal prep. They are ready in about 15 minutes and work well as a side or topping. The simple preparation highlights flavors from a different style of cooking. It is a practical option when you want to add variety to your meals.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

    Carne Asada in the Oven

    Slices of baked carne asada on small wood cutting board.Pin
    Carne Asada in the Oven. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks in under an hour and is easy to prepare. It brings bold flavors to the table without needing a grill. The seasoning adds a different touch compared to standard meat dishes. It is a solid option when you want to change up your dinner routine.
    Get the Recipe: Carne Asada in the Oven

    No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

    Italian artisan bread sliced on cutting board.Pin
    No Knead Italian Artisan Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This bread requires minimal hands-on time and bakes into a crisp loaf. It pairs well with many meals and can be made ahead. The simple ingredients reflect a different style of baking that is easy to follow. It is a great way to bring something new to your table.
    Get the Recipe: No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

    Individual Lasagna

    Lasagna for One in small 10-ounce square baking pan.Pin
    Individual Lasagna. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These portions bake evenly and are easy to serve. They are ready in under an hour and work well for small meals. The format gives a fresh take on a classic dish. It is a good option when you want to try something slightly different at dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Individual Lasagna

    Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry

    Shrimp and broccoli stir-fry in a bowl.Pin
    Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks quickly in one pan and is ready in about 30 minutes. It combines protein and vegetables for a balanced meal. The flavors introduce a different style of cooking that fits well into busy schedules. It is a practical way to bring variety to dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry

    Bang Bang Shrimp

    Fried shrimp on a plate next to a bowl of sauce.Pin
    Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks in about 20 minutes and works well as a main or appetizer. It brings a mix of flavors that stand out from everyday meals. The preparation is simple while still offering something new. It is a great option when you want to switch things up at dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

    Chopped Greek Salad

    A fresh greek salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumbers, olives, and peppers, served with a fork and a glass of water on the side.Pin
    Chopped Greek Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This salad is quick to assemble and requires no cooking. It combines fresh ingredients for a light but complete dish. The flavors offer a different take compared to standard salads. It is a simple way to bring variety to your meals.
    Get the Recipe: Chopped Greek Salad

    Salmon Pasta Alfredo

    Salmon pasta Alfredo served on a white plate with lemon.Pin
    Salmon Pasta Alfredo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks in under 40 minutes and combines seafood with a creamy base. It works well for dinner and is easy to prepare. The combination introduces a different flavor mix that feels new but approachable. It is a reliable option when you want something outside your usual meals.
    Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

    Korean Beef and Broccoli

    Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry over rice.Pin
    Korean Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks quickly and is ready in about 30 minutes. It combines beef and vegetables in a flavorful sauce. The seasoning brings a different style to the table without adding complexity. It is a practical option when you want to try something new.
    Get the Recipe: Korean Beef and Broccoli

    Creamy Chicken Curry

    Chicken curry with rice.Pin
    Creamy Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks in under 40 minutes and uses simple ingredients. It works well for both lunch and dinner. The spices bring a new flavor profile that adds variety to your meals. It is a strong option when you want to expand your dinner choices.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Curry

    Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

    Bowl of black pepper chicken with chop sticks.Pin
    Chinese Black Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks quickly and is ready in about 30 minutes. It combines chicken with a bold sauce for a complete meal. The seasoning introduces a different flavor style that stands out. It is a good option when you want to bring something new to dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

    Minestrone Soup with Sausage

    Minestrone Soup with Sausage in white bowl with spoonful.Pin
    Minestrone Soup with Sausage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This soup cooks in under an hour and can be made in large batches. It combines vegetables and sausage for a filling meal. The ingredients reflect a different approach to everyday soups. It is a practical way to add variety to your routine.
    Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

    Filipino Spaghetti

    A bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich meat sauce placed on a red and white checkered tablecloth.Pin
    Filipino Spaghetti. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks in under an hour and is easy to prepare. It brings a unique flavor combination that stands out from regular pasta dishes. The style offers something different while still being familiar enough to enjoy. It is a good option when you want to try a new take on a classic meal.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Spaghetti

    Steak Pizzaiola

    Fried steak topped with a chunky tomato and basil sauce, served on a white plate.Pin
    Steak Pizzaiola. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks in about 30 to 40 minutes and uses simple ingredients. It combines steak with a tomato-based sauce for a complete meal. The flavors bring a different approach to meat dishes. It is a solid option when you want to expand your dinner routine.
    Get the Recipe: Steak Pizzaiola

    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

    A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket.Pin
    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bites cook quickly and are ready in about 30 minutes. They are easy to prepare and work well as a main or appetizer. The preparation introduces a different style of cooking that feels fresh. It is a practical option when you want to try something new at dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

    Chicken Chop Suey

    Stir-fried chicken chop suey in a skillet.Pin
    Chicken Chop Suey. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks in one pan and is ready in about 30 minutes. It combines chicken and vegetables for a balanced meal. The flavors bring a different style compared to standard dinners. It is a reliable option when you want to add variety to your meals.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Chop Suey

    Air Fryer Lumpia

    Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce.Pin
    Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These rolls cook quickly and develop a crisp texture. They are ready in under 30 minutes and are easy to prepare. The dish introduces a different flavor and style to your table. It is a great option when you want to try something new.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

    Ratatouille

    Close-up of a wooden spoon holding ratatouille, featuring chopped zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, garnished with parsley.Pin
    Ratatouille. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks in under an hour and combines vegetables in a simple way. It works well as a main or side. The ingredients reflect a different approach to vegetable dishes. It is a good option when you want to bring variety to your meals.
    Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

    Asian Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

    A plate of lettuce wraps filled with seasoned minced meat and garnished with herbs, served with lemon wedges on a wooden tray.Pin
    Asian Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These wraps cook quickly and are ready in about 30 minutes. They are light but still work well as a full meal. The flavors introduce a different style that keeps things interesting. It is a practical option for changing up your dinner routine.
    Get the Recipe: Asian Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

    Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

    Lemon chicken soup in a white bowl with lemon slices.Pin
    Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This soup cooks in under an hour and works well for lunch or dinner. It combines chicken with a light, citrus-based broth. The flavor brings a different take compared to standard soups. It is a good option when you want to try something new.
    Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

    Filipino Chicken Adobo

    Two pieces of braised meat in a dark, rich sauce, seasoned with whole peppercorns and a bay leaf, in a pan.Pin
    Filipino Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks slowly and uses simple ingredients. It works well for dinner and can be made ahead. The flavor profile offers something different from everyday meals. It is a strong option when you want to expand your cooking routine.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Chicken Adobo

    Beef Con Queso Dip

    A bowl of beef queso dip with a spider web on top served with celery sticks.Pin
    Beef Con Queso Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish comes together quickly and works well for sharing. It is ready in about 30 minutes and is easy to prepare. The combination introduces a different style of flavor to the table. It is a practical option when you want something new for gatherings.
    Get the Recipe: Beef Con Queso Dip

    Chicken Cacciatore

    Plate of spaghetti topped with tomato sauce, mushrooms, and herbs, with a fork and spoon on the side.Pin
    Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks in one pot and is ready in under an hour. It combines chicken with vegetables for a complete meal. The ingredients bring a different approach to classic dinners. It is a reliable option when you want to try something new.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

    Zucchini Bruschetta

    Baked zucchini bruschetta topped with chopped tomatoes, herbs, and grated cheese on a parchment-lined tray.Pin
    Zucchini Bruschetta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish is quick to prepare and requires minimal cooking. It works well as a light meal or appetizer. The ingredients offer a different take compared to standard starters. It is a simple way to bring variety to your table.
    Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

    Chicken Gnocchi Soup

    A bowl of chicken and spinach soup with a spoon.Pin
    Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This soup cooks in about 30 minutes and is easy to prepare. It combines chicken and gnocchi for a filling meal. The dish brings a different style compared to regular soups. It is a practical option when you want to expand your dinner routine.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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    A woman in a green shirt stands in a kitchen holding a bowl of strawberries.

    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

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