I Made 19 International Recipes and Felt Weirdly Proud of Myself

Making 19 dishes from around the world brought some fresh energy and a bit of pride to the dinner table. It’s easier than expected and makes cooking feel more like an experiment than a chore. Great for anyone curious about new flavors but not ready for a full kitchen overhaul.

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A plate of creamy penne pasta garnished with chopped parsley and grated cheese, featuring pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. A black fork is resting on the plate.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re a fan of creamy dishes with a little extra kick, this one hits the mark. Marry Me Chicken Pasta brings a flavorful sauce together with perfectly cooked pasta to create a hearty dish. The magic lies in how the sauce clings to each bite, blending everything into one fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Cheese Quesadilla

A person lifts a cheesy quesadilla slice from a wooden board. Nearby are bowls of guacamole and salsa on a light-colored table.
Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple doesn’t have to mean boring, and that’s proven true with this timeless recipe. Cheese Quesadilla is all about hitting that perfect toasted crunch on the outside while delivering gooey layers inside. It’s one of those meals you can enjoy solo or pair up with sides for an extra boost.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Quesadilla

Asian Style Pork Chops

Close-up of sliced grilled pork belly garnished with sesame seeds and green chili, served on a bed of kale.
Asian Style Pork Chops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You don’t often think of pork chops as being packed with bold flavors, but this dish flips that idea around. Asian Style Pork Chops use a unique sauce to turn something simple into something unexpected and worth trying. What stands out is how the tender meat pairs so well with the savory notes.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For anyone who enjoys Mediterranean-inspired dishes, this one is a solid choice. Pasta alla Norma brings a mix of vegetables and pasta together, making it feel both fresh and filling. The texture of the veggies and pasta complement each other like they’re supposed to be a team.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Lemongrass Chicken

Grilled chicken with herbs on white rice, garnished with shredded carrots and cabbage.
Lemongrass Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Here’s something for those who enjoy bold, aromatic dishes that stand out. Lemongrass Chicken focuses on turning simple chicken into a new kind of flavorful experience. The way the unique marinade balances everything makes it feel fresh and exciting. It’s one of those meals that takes a familiar base.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

Spaghetti Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce and a fresh basil leaf, accompanied by a fork on the side.
Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A classic pasta recipe that truly stands the test of time. Spaghetti Bolognese delivers rich layers of flavor as its hearty sauce coats each strand of pasta. What makes it special is that balance between filling and flavorful without overwhelming you. It’s a go-to option when you’re in the mood for a traditional but reliable meal.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Chili Relleno Casserole

A slice of lasagna with beef, mushrooms, cheese, and vegetables being lifted from a baking dish.
Chili Relleno Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Take a Mexican favorite and turn it into something baked and shareable; that’s the heart of this recipe. Chili Relleno Casserole combines layers of textures and savory flavors in a way that feels perfect for a group. It’s definitely one of those meals where each bite feels like a blend of spice and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Chili Relleno Casserole

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy and rich soups are always a treat, and this is no exception. Marry Me Chicken Soup takes flavors you might expect in a pasta dish and transforms them into a drinkable bowl. It’s hearty enough to feel like a full meal but also comforting in its own way. A great example of how soup can feel indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pasta dishes aren’t always centered around sauces, and this proves how great they can be with the right mix-ins. Italian Pasta with Salami offers a meaty twist that pairs nicely with the overall pasta base. It’s filling without trying too hard and fits right into a lunch or dinner spot.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Mini Hasselback Potatoes

A plate of sliced, roasted baby potatoes is garnished with herbs. A small bowl of creamy sauce is placed in the center.
Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Potatoes often make the perfect side dish, and this version feels just a little more fun. Mini Hasselback Potatoes focus on texture, giving you soft inside layers and crispy edges. The way they’re served makes them ideal for both meals and snacking situations. These don’t need much fuss to become an easy favorite on a food table.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Chickpea Curry

Bowl of chickpea stew with spinach, potatoes, tomatoes, and topped with fresh cilantro.
Chickpea Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Vegetarian options don’t always feel like they pack a punch, but this dish proves otherwise. Chickpea Curry offers warmth and richness without needing a meat base, making it ideal for plant-based diets. The chickpeas soak in the sauce in a way that turns them into the star of the plate.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes, you just want a meal that’s hearty and dependable. Beef Chili delivers that with rich flavors, thick texture, and a warmth that feels like comfort in a bowl. It’s designed to stand alone or pair with simple additions that make it even better. Perfect for making a large batch, it’s ideal for sharing or saving for later.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper.
Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pizza doesn’t always need layers of meat, and this is a great example of how simple toppings can still be impressive. Mushroom Pizza keeps the focus on earthy flavors that blend perfectly with a classic base. The mushrooms add a tender texture alongside the crispy crust, resulting in a great bite every time.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

General Tso’s Chicken

Stir-fried chicken pieces in a spicy sauce, garnished with chopped green onions, served in a round metal dish on an orange placemat.
General Tso’s Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

This dish brings a mix of bold flavors and crispy bites to the table in a way that’s hard to ignore. General Tso’s Chicken hits that sweet-and-savory spot you might look for in takeout food. Despite its fried element, it tends to feel lighter on the palate than expected. Its balance makes it perfect for takeaway nights.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Shrimp Tempura Roll

Close-up of sushi rolls with avocado, cucumber, and rice, topped with sesame seeds and a drizzle of spicy mayo on a beige plate.
Shrimp Tempura Roll. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sushi lovers will appreciate how simple but satisfying this recipe feels. Shrimp Tempura Roll combines sweet, crunchy shrimp with soft rice to create clean flavors with good texture. It’s proof that you don’t need complex combinations when the basics are done right.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A bowl of Mexican street corn salad garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you enjoy corn-based dishes that feel bold yet inviting, this one’s worth your time. Mexican Street Corn Salad mixes flavors and crunch together, giving a lot of texture to every bite. It’s great to serve as a side dish but can also hold its own as a light meal. It’s easy to share and feels like a step-up from plain corn dishes.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Chicken Alfredo

A plate of bowtie pasta with creamy sauce topped with cooked chicken pieces and garnished with parsley, with a black fork on the side.
Chicken Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy pasta dishes never really go out of style. Chicken Alfredo pulls that comforting blend of pasta and chicken together with a creamy, rich sauce that ties everything in. It’s one of those meals that works whether you’re cooking for someone special or just keeping it simple for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo

Baked Beef Tacos

Two tacos with beef, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro on a white plate.
Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Taking a classic taco recipe and baking it changes the texture in a really interesting way. Baked Beef Tacos bring a layer of crunch while keeping the filling hearty and meaty. They’re easy to serve all at once and great for larger gatherings or quick family meals.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fried chicken goes in a slightly different direction with this recipe. Sesame Chicken uses a unique sauce to bring extra flavor and a little something different to the table. The texture of the crispy chicken mixed with the sauce creates a meal you’ll remember later. It’s a versatile option that works for solo dinners or as a group dish.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

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