Here are 11 bizarre recipes that will have you wondering, “What were they thinking?” With unusual ingredients and unexpected flavors, these dishes are far from ordinary. See if you’re up for the challenge and give them a try.
![A fresh salad with avocado slices and a boiled egg.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Shaved-Brussels-Sprouts-Salad-1024x576.jpg)
Roasted Cabbage Steaks
![Roasted cabbage steak topped with tomatoes, bacon, goat cheese, and more.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Roasted-Cabbage-Steaks-Image-SM.jpg)
Roasted Cabbage Steaks take 45 minutes to make and are loaded with bacon, cheese, and garlic. These crispy cabbage slices are smoky, salty, and earthy. It’s a bizarre twist on “steak” that will leave you asking, “What were they thinking?” But you’ll love the combination of crunchy cabbage and savory toppings.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks
Citrus Asparagus Couscous
![Citrus asparagus couscous in a white bowl next to an orange and lemons.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Citrus-Asparagus-Couscous-SM-Image-1.jpg)
Citrus Asparagus Couscous pairs tangy citrus flavors with fresh asparagus in a 30-minute side dish. The couscous is fluffy and light, while the asparagus adds a satisfying crunch. Infused with lemon and orange zest, this bizarre blend of flavors creates a refreshing yet unique dish. It’s a strange yet delightful surprise.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous
Easy Oven Asparagus
![Asparagus spears in a white bowl on a granite counter.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Easy-Oven-Asparagus-1024x576.jpg)
Easy Oven Asparagus is ready in 15 minutes and uses olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese. The asparagus is perfectly tender with a slightly crisp edge. Its garlicky flavor and cheesy finish make this simple side dish irresistible. This straightforward recipe is quirky yet surprisingly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Easy Oven Asparagus
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables
![A dish of beets, sweet potatoes, and parsnips roasted in the oven with sprigs of sage.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Oven-Roasted-Root-Vegetables-Image-SM.jpg)
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables feature a medley of parsnips, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Roasted to perfection in 45 minutes, they have a caramelized sweetness with a hint of thyme and rosemary. You might wonder, “Why roast these veggies together?” But this bizarre combo makes a warm, comforting dish that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Root Vegetables
Screaming Skillet Green Beans
![Screaming skillet green beans in a white bowl on a wooden table.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screaming-Skillet-Green-Beans-SM-Image-1.jpg)
Screaming Skillet Green Beans combine fresh green beans with hot chili flakes and garlic in just 15 minutes. They’re spicy, garlicky, and still crisp-tender. The chili adds a bold kick that pairs perfectly with the beans’ freshness. This unusual mix delivers a flavorful punch that will have you screaming, “What were they thinking?”
Get the Recipe: Screaming Skillet Green Beans
Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots
![Red, yellow, and orange honey glazed carrots on a slate board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Honey-Glazed-Carrots-Image-1-2.jpg)
Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots are sweet, sticky, and slightly caramelized in just 30 minutes. The honey glaze, infused with thyme, brings out their natural sweetness. Each bite is tender and full of flavor. These roasted carrots make a comforting yet unique side dish that pairs well with any meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
![A serving of shaved brussels sprouts salad next to the serving bowl of shaved brussels sprouts salad with salad servers in the middle.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shaved-Brussels-Sprouts-Salad-Image-2-e1681507630848.jpg)
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad features thinly shaved Brussels sprouts tossed with bacon, cranberries, and pecans. This 20-minute salad is crunchy, smoky, and sweet all at once. It’s a surprisingly tasty way to enjoy Brussels sprouts raw. The contrasting flavors create a vibrant, unexpected dish.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Shrimp Asparagus Risotto
![Shrimp asparagus risotto in a dark bowl on a blue background with a napkin and glass of wine.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shrimp-Asparagus-Risotto-Image-10-1.jpg)
Shrimp Asparagus Risotto combines plump shrimp, tender asparagus, and creamy Arborio rice. In 45 minutes, you get a dish that’s rich and full of flavor. The seafood and asparagus add freshness while the rice gives it a comforting warmth. It’s a creamy, savory, and deliciously unique recipe.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Asparagus Risotto
Sweet Potato Fritters
![A serving basket of sweet potato fritters next to a bowl of dipping sauce and a single serving on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Sweet-Potato-Fritters-Image-SM.jpg)
Sweet Potato Fritters with Sweet & Spicy Sauce are crispy and savory with a hint of sweetness. Taking just 40 minutes, they’re made with grated sweet potatoes, garlic, and ginger. The sweet and spicy dipping sauce adds a tangy kick. These fritters are a fun, bold snack or side dish.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fritters
Veggie Couscous Salad
![Veggie couscous salad in a white serving bowl on a wooden board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/veggie-couscous-salad-2.jpg)
Veggie Couscous Salad takes 30 minutes and features a mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and feta cheese. The couscous is light and fluffy, complementing the crisp veggies perfectly. Lemon juice and herbs give it a fresh, tangy taste. It’s a colorful, wholesome salad that’s uniquely refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Couscous Salad
Zucchini Noodle Salad
![Zucchini noodle salad on a white square plate with a serving bowl in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Zucchini-noodle-salad-SM-Image-1.jpg)
Zucchini Noodle Salad is a spiralized, gluten-free alternative that’s ready in 20 minutes. Fresh zucchini noodles mix with cherry tomatoes, herbs, and feta cheese. The lemon vinaigrette gives it a zesty, vibrant flavor. It’s a refreshing and light salad with a fun twist on traditional pasta.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Noodle Salad