Feeling adventurous in the kitchen doesn’t mean complicated recipes or hard-to-find ingredients. These 15 meals have been selected not only for their ability to transport you elsewhere but also for their simple approach to cooking. This means you can focus on the fun of cooking and eating, not on stress. Whether you’re cooking for one, two, or a full house, there’s something in this collection that promises a hassle-free route to an international dining experience.

Szechuan Shrimp

If you’re craving the bold spice and unique flavors of Asian cuisine, Szechuan Shrimp might be just what you need. Without ever leaving home, this dish offers a taste of China’s Sichuan province, renowned for its use of garlic and chili peppers. It’s perfect for both a quick midweek dinner and when you’re looking to impress your guests at a weekend get-together. All you need to do is grab your chopsticks and you’re ready for a flavor-packed adventure.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Looking for a comforting meal but want to keep it interesting? Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake presents a delicious way to enjoy something savory and rich, with leafy greens weaved into the mix. It’s an easy option for busy nights when the kitchen is the last place you want to be stuck in for hours. When you take your first bite, every forkful reminds you of a cozy dinner at a European countryside inn.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Have a night in Korea with Beef Bulgogi Bowls that bring the harmonious combination of sweet and savory right to your dining table. This dish is perfect for anyone who enjoys a little DIY, as it’s typically served with a variety of sides that each person can tailor to their liking. It’s social, it’s fun, and it’s incredibly easy to put together. Enjoy the communal aspect of Korean dining without crossing any borders.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Shrimp Yakisoba

Bringing an authentic taste of Japan into your household is a breeze with Shrimp Yakisoba. It’s a well-loved street food you can recreate for a casual family dinner or when friends come over. The dish is a satisfying mix of noodles, veggies, and shrimp, all tossed together in a savory sauce. It’s simple, it’s quick, and it instantly teleports your senses to the bustling streets of Tokyo.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Yakisoba

Thai Chicken Satay

Give your evening an exotic flair with Thai Chicken Satay, a staple at Thai street markets. This dish is all about the blend of spices and herbs that infuse the skewered chicken with flavors that feel both fresh and deeply comforting. Grilled to perfection and often served with a side of peanut sauce, it’s a hands-on eating experience that can make your backyard feel like a festival in Bangkok. Ideal for gatherings, it’s both a conversation starter and a centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay

Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

With Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos, have a little taste of Mexican Street food that combines seafood and sausage in a single bite. They’re a go-to for a quick, flavorful meal that brings together the best of land and sea. Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or midday snack, these tacos ensure a break from the mundane. Say goodbye to ordinary meals and hello to vibrant flavors that pack a punch.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Ramen Fried Chicken

Ramen Fried Chicken offers a unique twist on two comfort-food favorites, merging them into a crunch-filled experience. This fusion dish provides the perfect combination of crispy goodness with a familiar soup seasoning coating. It’s a playful dinner option that’s guaranteed to intrigue and satisfy anyone at the table. So, why settle for ordinary fried chicken when you can add a little novelty to your evening meal?
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken

Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani

For a fragrant and exotic dish straight out of South Asia, look no further than Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani. This Indian classic simplifies the usually complex process into an accessible meal for an adventurous weeknight. The blend of spices and aromatics will fill your home with enticing smells that promise an equally impressive taste. The convenience of a modern kitchen gadget brings an age-old recipe into today’s busy lifestyles.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani

Kung Pao Chicken

Anyone keen on a quick trip to the vibrant streets of a Chinese city should consider whipping up Kung Pao Chicken. This well-known favorite is appreciated worldwide for its spicy kick and contrast of textures. Ideal for a lively dinner party or a solitary treat, the dish is a sure bet for those who love a little excitement on their plate. You’ll find that each mouthful is a mini escape to a far-off land.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Pork Belly Banh Mi

Transform your sandwich expectations with Pork Belly Banh Mi, a Vietnamese classic that’s as flavorful as it is colorful. This dish combines tender pork with pickled veggies and fresh cilantro in a crusty baguette, offering a full sensory experience. Whether for lunch or dinner, it’s a sandwich that breaks the monotony of everyday options. So why not take your taste buds on a street food adventure from the comfort of your own kitchen?
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Banh Mi

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

If you enjoy food that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at, try making Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos for your next meal. This dish offers the crunchiness of a taquito with a healthier twist thanks to the air fryer. It’s become a favorite for those looking for an alternative to the deep-fried version without compromising on taste. Serve it up at your next family movie night or as part of a laid-back dinner party.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Salpicon de Res

Channel the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with Salpicon de Res, a dish that combines shredded beef with a fresh, tangy salad. Traditionally served chilled, it’s the perfect solution to a warm evening or when you want a dinner that’s both refreshing and satiating. Share it at a backyard fiesta or enjoy a casual meal with a burst of liveliness. It’s a simple dish that’s big on flavor and sure to brighten any mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Salpicon de Res

Chicken Curry Laksa

Bring the warmth of Southeast Asia to your table with Chicken Curry Laksa, which is a rich noodle soup that’s both comforting and invigorating. This Malaysian favorite melds creamy coconut milk with a spice-infused broth, providing layers of flavor in every spoonful. It’s a bowl of pure comfort perfect for chilly nights or when you’re in need of a little pick-me-up. So slurp up and let the rich tapestry of flavors transport you to the bustling hawker centers of Kuala Lumpur.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry Laksa

Sopa de Camaron

For a seafood dish that’s uncomplicated yet full of traditional flavors, Sopa de Camaron is a wonderful pick. This comforting Mexican shrimp soup is great for anyone looking to enjoy something warm and brimming with marine goodness. It’s a straightforward dish that can be made in a snap, perfect for those days when time is of the essence. Bring a bit of the Mexican coastline to your dining room and let every spoonful take you closer to the waves.
Get the Recipe: Sopa de Camaron

Crispy Beef

When it’s time to switch up the regular dinner routine, Crispy Beef is a terrific selection. This Chinese dish is all about texture and the rich sauce that clings to every strip of meat. It’s a stellar option for anyone in need of a meal that’s quick to prepare and guaranteed to leave everyone asking for more. Add a little crunch to your dinner time, and watch how a simple meal can turn into something special.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef