• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Little Bit Recipes
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Resources
  • Recipes
  • Subscribe
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Resources
    • Recipes
    • Subscribe
    • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home / Roundups

    29 International Dishes To Spice Up Your Weeknight

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Feb 15, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    If you're tired of the same old weeknight meals, it's time to add some international flair to your dinner routine. These dishes bring bold flavors and exciting twists, perfect for mixing up your usual weeknight menu. With a little inspiration from around the world, you'll have something fresh and exciting to look forward to each night.

    Bowl of creamy chicken and vegetable soup with spinach and gnocchi.Pin
    Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Want to save this post?

    Enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox. Plus, I'll send you the latest recipes and tips every week!

    Loading

    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 pork belly bites are a quick and crispy way to enjoy an international favorite at home. The air fryer provides a perfect, tender inside and a crispy outside with minimal effort. Ready in under an hour, these flavorful bites pair well with a variety of sides, making them an easy meal. Their savory, juicy flavor is sure to add a fun and spicy twist to your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy this international-inspired dish with a side of rice or vegetables.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

    Salmon Pasta Alfredo

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

    This creamy, flavorful pasta dish brings together the richness of Alfredo sauce with the delicate taste of salmon. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an international-inspired dinner in no time. The combination of fresh salmon and a creamy sauce will give your weeknight meals a comforting yet exotic touch. It's a quick dish to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want to try something different. A great way to switch up your regular pasta routine with a flavorful twist.
    Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

    Minestrone Soup with Sausage

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

    This hearty and filling minestrone soup with sausage is an easy way to incorporate Italian flavors into your weeknight meals. Packed with vegetables, beans, and sausage, it offers a comforting bowl full of rich flavors. It's a one-pot meal that's simple to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight. With a combination of Italian seasonings, it's a great way to spice up dinner without much effort. A warm, hearty soup that brings a taste of Italy to your table.
    Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

    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 beef con queso dip is a perfect choice for spicing up your weeknight gatherings with its creamy, cheesy richness and savory beef. Quick to prepare, it's perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or as a snack during game night. The bold flavors of Mexican cuisine come together in this comforting, gooey dip. Paired with chips or tortillas, it's a satisfying, no-fuss dish for any evening. A fun and flavorful way to try something new and international at home.
    Get the Recipe: Beef Con Queso Dip

    Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

    This creamy, comforting chicken gnocchi soup brings a taste of Italian comfort food to your weeknight meals. The combination of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and creamy broth makes for a rich and hearty dish that's easy to prepare. It's a one-pot meal that's perfect for busy nights when you want something filling and flavorful. The Italian-inspired ingredients bring a spicy twist to your usual soup routine. A great choice when you need something quick yet packed with international flavors.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

    Chocolate Au Pain

    Close-up of a flaky pastry cut open to reveal a filling of chocolate, with a visible crispy golden crust.Pin
    Chocolate Au Pain. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This indulgent pastry brings a bit of French flair to your weeknight dessert routine. Flaky, buttery layers filled with rich chocolate make it a perfect treat to end any meal. Ready in under an hour, this dessert combines ease of preparation with sophisticated flavors. It's a great way to add a bit of sweetness and French-inspired magic to your evenings. A perfect choice for when you want to experience international flavors in a simple, satisfying dessert.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Au Pain

    Shrimp Scampi

    A plate with shrimp and bread on it.Pin
    Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Shrimp scampi brings the bold, zesty flavors of Italy right to your table in under 30 minutes. With tender shrimp and a buttery garlic sauce, this dish is an easy yet sophisticated meal for a busy weeknight. It's quick, flavorful, and pairs wonderfully with pasta or crusty bread. A great way to incorporate fresh seafood and international flavors into your dinner routine. Perfect for spicing up your evening without taking much time or effort.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

    Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

    A pot of Italian vegetable stew with a spoon, garnished with chopped green herbs, on a white tablecloth with a small bowl of parsley on the side.Pin
    Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This Italian vegetable stew is packed with fresh vegetables and a hearty tomato base, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. Easy to prepare, it's a great way to bring international flavors and healthy ingredients to the table. The mix of seasonal vegetables makes it a versatile dish that can be customized based on what's available. Ready in about an hour, it's a wholesome, flavorful meal that's perfect for any night. A great way to enjoy the flavors of Italy with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

    Air Fryer Lumpia

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

    These crispy, savory air fryer lumpia are a quick and easy way to bring a taste of the Philippines to your table. The air fryer makes them crisp without all the oil, making them a healthier choice for a snack or light meal. Perfect for busy nights, they're easy to prepare and full of flavor. With their savory filling and crispy texture, they're a fun international dish to spice up your evening. Pair them with a dipping sauce for an extra punch of flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

    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.

    Filipino spaghetti is a sweet and savory dish that offers a fun twist on a classic Italian favorite. The sweet spaghetti sauce paired with hotdogs and ground meat creates a unique combination of flavors. It's easy to prepare, and the ingredients are simple but packed with international flair. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it brings something new and exciting to your regular spaghetti routine. A great choice when you want to try something different without much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Spaghetti

    Creamy Chicken Curry

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

    This creamy chicken curry brings rich, spicy flavors that are sure to spice up your weeknight dinners. The blend of spices and cream creates a comforting, hearty dish that pairs perfectly with rice. Ready in about 30 minutes, it's a simple yet flavorful meal that will transport your taste buds to another part of the world. It's a great way to try out Indian flavors at home with minimal prep time. A wonderful way to add some spice and excitement to your usual dinner rotation.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Curry

    Beef Quesadillas

    A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate.Pin
    Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These beef quesadillas are a perfect weeknight dinner that combines savory beef with melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Quick and easy to make, they're a great choice when you want something flavorful and satisfying in a short amount of time. The savory beef filling adds a rich, international twist to your usual quesadilla. These are great for busy evenings and can be customized with your favorite toppings. A simple yet flavorful way to bring some variety to your dinner table.
    Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

    Ground Pork Tacos

    Two pork tacos on a white plate with lime wedges.Pin
    Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These ground pork tacos bring a bold flavor to your weeknight dinners with a Mexican-inspired filling. The pork is seasoned with traditional spices, making these tacos a quick and easy international option. Ready in under 30 minutes, they're perfect for a busy weeknight and a great way to try something new. The soft tortillas and seasoned pork create a deliciously simple dish that everyone will enjoy. A great choice for adding spice and flavor to your dinner without much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

    Ground Pork Stir Fry

    A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice.Pin
    Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This ground pork stir fry is a quick and easy way to bring Asian-inspired flavors to your weeknight meal. Packed with vegetables and savory seasonings, it's a healthy and flavorful dish that's ready in under 30 minutes. Stir fry is a simple, one-pan meal that's easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand. The combination of spices adds an exciting, international twist to your dinner. Perfect for busy nights when you want a healthy, flavorful dish in no time.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

    Wet Burrito

    Chicken wet burrito with salsa and sour cream on a white plate.Pin
    Wet Burrito. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This wet burrito is a Mexican favorite that's hearty and satisfying with its savory fillings and rich sauce. Filled with seasoned meat, beans, and cheese, then smothered in a flavorful sauce, it's a filling meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners. Ready in just under an hour, it's an easy dish that's big on flavor. The combination of savory, spicy ingredients brings an international twist to your usual burrito. A great way to enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Wet Burrito

    No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

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

    This no-knead Italian artisan bread is the perfect addition to your weeknight meals, adding a touch of Italy to your table. With minimal prep and a long rise, it's simple to make and pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. This bread is a great way to add something homemade and flavorful to your meal without too much effort. The crispy crust and soft interior will complement any international-inspired dinner. A great choice for spicing up your weeknight routine with homemade bread.
    Get the Recipe: No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

    Aloo Gobi Masala

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

    Aloo Gobi Masala is an easy Indian-inspired dish full of vibrant flavors from spiced potatoes and cauliflower. The mix of Indian spices brings a unique and exciting flavor profile to your weeknight meals. It's easy to make, with simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Ready in about 30 minutes, it's a quick and flavorful meal that can be served on its own or with rice. A great option when you're looking for a flavorful, spice-filled dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

    Fish Stew with Chorizo

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

    This fish stew with chorizo is a hearty, flavorful dish that blends the bold tastes of Spain into a simple weeknight meal. The combination of chorizo and fish brings rich, savory flavors, making it a great option for an international-inspired dinner. Ready in under an hour, it's an easy one-pot meal that's full of flavor. This stew is perfect when you want something filling yet not overly complicated. A great way to bring spice and variety to your weeknight dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Fish Stew with Chorizo

    Korean Beef and Broccoli

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

    This Korean beef and broccoli dish is a quick and flavorful stir fry that brings a taste of Korean cuisine to your dinner table. The beef is tender, and the broccoli soaks up the savory, sweet sauce, creating a satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it's a great way to enjoy international flavors on a busy weeknight. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's a simple yet flavorful dish. A perfect way to spice up your usual stir-fry routine.
    Get the Recipe: Korean Beef and Broccoli

    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.

    Steak pizzaiola is an Italian dish that brings together tender steak with a rich, savory tomato sauce. Quick and easy to prepare, it's a great way to enjoy the bold flavors of Italy on a weeknight. The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and seasonings adds a deep, flavorful touch to the steak. It's perfect when you want something simple yet packed with flavor. A great international dish to enjoy when you're craving something hearty and satisfying.
    Get the Recipe: Steak Pizzaiola

    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.

    Zucchini bruschetta is a fresh, Italian-inspired appetizer that's easy to prepare and full of flavor. The zucchini, topped with garlic, tomatoes, and fresh basil, creates a light yet satisfying bite. It's perfect for a quick weeknight appetizer or a side dish to any meal. This dish is simple, healthy, and offers a unique twist on traditional bruschetta. A great way to enjoy international flavors with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

    Individual Lasagna

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

    Individual lasagnas are a perfect way to serve up Italian flavors in a single, personalized portion. Layers of pasta, cheese, and meat or veggies make this a comforting meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under an hour, these single servings are easy to prepare and full of flavor. They're an excellent choice when you want something hearty without the hassle of making a big pan of lasagna. A delicious way to bring Italian flair to your evening.
    Get the Recipe: Individual Lasagna

    Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

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

    This Chinese black pepper chicken is a bold and flavorful dish that will spice up your weeknight dinners. With tender chicken pieces coated in a savory, peppery sauce, it's a quick meal that brings international flair. Ready in about 30 minutes, this stir-fry is easy to make and can be paired with rice or noodles. The rich, spicy sauce adds a unique twist to your usual stir-fry routine. A great choice for when you want something fast and flavorful.
    Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

    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 shrimp and broccoli stir-fry is an easy, flavorful dish that brings together the best of seafood and vegetables in a savory sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's a quick way to bring international flavors to your weeknight dinner. The combination of shrimp and broccoli is simple yet satisfying, making it a great choice for a healthy, fast meal. The sauce adds just the right amount of flavor without being overwhelming. Perfect for busy evenings when you want something light but full of flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

    Easy Radish Salad

    A plate of radish salad with diced celery and a creamy dressing, accompanied by a glass of water and salt and pepper shakers.Pin
    Easy Radish Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This easy radish salad is a fresh, crisp side dish that adds a tangy, international twist to your meals. The radishes, combined with a simple vinaigrette, bring a refreshing burst of flavor. It's quick to prepare and pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes. This light and flavorful salad is a great way to enjoy some fresh veggies with an international touch. A perfect option when you want something easy but exciting to complement your dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Radish Salad

    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 oven-baked carne asada is a flavorful and easy way to enjoy Mexican-inspired flavors without the grill. With a few simple seasonings, it's ready to cook in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The beef is juicy and tender, and the seasonings create a bold flavor profile. It's a great choice when you want a hearty, satisfying dish with minimal effort. A delicious way to spice up your weeknight dinner with international flair.
    Get the Recipe: Carne Asada in the Oven

    Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

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

    These slow-cooked chicken tacos are a great way to enjoy Mexican flavors with minimal work. The chicken is tender and full of flavor, making it a quick and easy meal for any weeknight. Toss it in a slow cooker in the morning, and it's ready by dinner time. Perfect for busy nights, these tacos bring an international twist to your regular taco night. A flavorful, no-fuss dinner that everyone will enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

    Mexican Steak Pizza

    Close-up of a cheesy Mexican steak pizza on a wooden spatula.Pin
    Mexican Steak Pizza. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This Mexican steak pizza is a fun and flavorful way to mix two international cuisines into one dish. The tender steak pairs perfectly with a zesty salsa sauce, cheese, and other fresh toppings. It's easy to make and is sure to bring excitement to your weeknight pizza routine. Ready in under 30 minutes, this pizza is a quick and satisfying option when you want something different. A great way to spice up pizza night with bold, international flavors.
    Get the Recipe: Mexican Steak Pizza

    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.

    Ratatouille is a French vegetable stew that's full of fresh, flavorful ingredients, perfect for spicing up your weeknight meals. Packed with seasonal vegetables and rich tomato sauce, this dish is simple to make and packed with flavor. Ready in under an hour, it's a great choice for a healthy, vegetarian dinner. The combination of herbs and vegetables brings a delightful international flavor to the table. A fantastic way to add variety to your dinner routine.
    Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

    FacebookXPinterestFlipboard

    More Roundups

    • A skillet with sweet potato casserole and pecans.
      25 Must Try Side Dishes for the Holiday Featuring Family Favorites
    • sliced carne asada on cutting board.
      21 Easy Oven-Baked Meals You Can Count On This Fall
    • A bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich meat sauce placed on a red and white checkered tablecloth.
      6 Filipino Recipes You’ll Wish You Knew About Earlier
    • Two bowls of green bean casserole on a cutting board.
      33 Downscaled Sides and Salads That Will Change Everything

    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.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    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.

    Read more →

    Popular

    • A bowl of brown rice with Hawaiian chicken on it.
      Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
    • edible cookie dough single serving for one.
      Edible Single Serving Cookie Dough
    • Sliced Italian artisan bread with buttered slice in front.
      No Knead Italian Artisan Bread
    • A sliced meatloaf on a white plate.
      Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (CopyCat)

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Cooking

    • Scaling Recipes
    • Mini Pie Pans
    • Stories

    Recipes

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
    • Desserts

    About

    • About
    • Contact
    • Newsletter

    LittleBitRecipes.com makes money through affiliate partner links: If you click on a link, we may earn a commission. Our writers create all reviews, recipes, and other content to inform readers, with no influence from our advertisers. LittleBitRecipes.com may earn from qualifying purchased made on Amazon.com. Learn more about our privacy policies, terms of use, and disclosures.

    Copyright © 2025. Little Bit Recipes. All Rights Reserved.