30 International recipes that won’t make you sweat in the kitchen

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I love trying new flavors from around the world, but I don’t love spending hours in the kitchen. These international recipes keep things simple while still delivering bold, authentic tastes that make mealtime exciting. If you’re looking for easy, flavorful dishes that won’t leave you exhausted, you’re in the right place!

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

Ratatouille

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

This classic vegetable dish brings bold flavors with minimal effort, making it a great option when you want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The mix of eggplant, zucchini, and peppers simmers together for a rich and hearty meal. Serve it as a main dish or a side, depending on what you’re in the mood for. Everything comes together in one pot, keeping cleanup simple. It’s an easy way to enjoy comforting flavors from abroad without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

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.
Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Packed with fresh vegetables, this rustic Italian stew is a simple way to bring big flavors to the table. It cooks slowly, letting the ingredients meld together without much hands-on time. Serve it as is, or pair it with crusty bread for a filling meal. This one-pot dish keeps things easy while still feeling like a special treat. You get a taste of traditional Italian cooking without the long prep.
Get the Recipe: Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

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

These roasted tomatoes come out perfectly caramelized with hardly any effort, thanks to the air fryer. They make a great addition to pasta, sandwiches, or salads, adding a punch of flavor without any complicated steps. The short cooking time means you can have them ready in minutes. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe keeps things simple while still delivering a bold taste. It’s a quick and easy way to bring Mediterranean flavors to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Steak Pizzaiola

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

This Italian-inspired dish delivers tender steak simmered in a rich tomato sauce, and it’s easier than it looks. Everything cooks in one pan, so you won’t be left with a pile of dishes. Serve it over pasta, rice, or even on its own for a satisfying meal. The bold sauce keeps things flavorful without needing extra effort. It’s a great way to enjoy steak with an international twist that doesn’t require a long prep time.
Get the Recipe: Steak Pizzaiola

Beef Quesadillas

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

These quesadillas come together fast, making them perfect for a quick lunch or easy dinner. With melty cheese and seasoned beef, they’re packed with flavor without a lot of prep. Everything cooks in one pan, and you can have them on the table in minutes. Serve them as is or with your favorite toppings for a meal that feels complete. They’re a simple way to bring a bit of Mexican-inspired comfort to your table without a hassle.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Aloo Gobi Masala

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

This classic potato and cauliflower dish is packed with warm spices and comes together with minimal effort. Everything simmers in one pan, making it a great choice for a quick and flavorful meal. The ingredients are simple, and the cooking process is easy to follow. Serve it with rice or flatbread for a satisfying plate. It’s a great way to enjoy traditional Indian flavors without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Air Fryer Lumpia

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

These crispy, golden rolls cook up quickly in the air fryer, giving you the perfect crunch without the hassle of deep frying. The filling is packed with flavor, and the wrappers crisp up beautifully in just minutes. They make a great appetizer or snack with minimal effort. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce to round out the meal. It’s an easy way to enjoy this classic Filipino favorite without spending all day cooking.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

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.
Easy Radish Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This light and refreshing salad comes together in minutes, making it a great side for busy days. Crisp radishes, simple seasonings, and a quick toss bring everything together without extra work. It pairs well with a variety of meals or can be enjoyed on its own. The fresh crunch and bright flavors make it a great addition to any spread. It’s an effortless way to enjoy simple, fresh ingredients with an international touch.
Get the Recipe: Easy Radish Salad

Bang Bang Shrimp

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

This shrimp dish is packed with flavor and takes just minutes to prepare. A quick toss in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce gives it that signature taste without any complicated steps. It’s great as an appetizer or served over rice for a complete meal. The short prep and cook time mean you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish on the table fast. It’s an easy way to enjoy bold flavors without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Individual Lasagna

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

These single-serving lasagnas bake up quickly, giving you all the comfort of the classic dish without the wait. Layered with sauce, cheese, and pasta, they come together with minimal prep. Baking them in individual portions makes serving easy, with no messy slicing required. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, they deliver rich Italian flavors without hours in the kitchen. It’s a simple way to enjoy a favorite dish without the extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Individual Lasagna

Ground Pork Tacos

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

These tacos come together quickly, making them perfect for a fast and flavorful meal. The seasoned pork cooks in minutes, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for long. Load them up with your favorite toppings for an easy dinner that feels complete. Whether for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, they’re a great option with minimal effort. You get bold flavors inspired by Mexican street food without a complicated prep.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

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.
Coconut Panna Cotta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy dessert sets up beautifully in the fridge, requiring almost no hands-on work. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a smooth and rich treat that feels special. The coconut flavor adds a tropical touch without making things overly complicated. It’s an effortless way to end a meal on a sweet note. A great option when you want an impressive dessert without a long list of steps.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Panna Cotta

Salmon Pasta Alfredo

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

This pasta dish delivers rich, creamy flavors with minimal effort. The salmon cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with the smooth Alfredo sauce. Everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup simple. It’s a great choice for a comforting meal that doesn’t take much time to prepare. You get a restaurant-style dish at home without the extra work.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Chocolate Au Pain

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

This chocolate-filled pastry brings a bakery-style treat to your kitchen with very little effort. Using simple ingredients, you can create a warm and flaky bite that feels indulgent. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a light dessert. The golden crust and melted chocolate make it hard to resist. A great way to enjoy a classic French treat without a complicated process.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Au Pain

Carne Asada in the Oven

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

This oven-cooked version of carne asada keeps things easy while still delivering bold flavor. The marinade does most of the work, and the oven ensures even cooking without the need to stand over a grill. Slice it up for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls in just minutes. The hands-off cooking method makes it a great option for busy nights. You get all the flavor of this Mexican-inspired favorite without extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Carne Asada in the Oven

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

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

With the slow cooker handling most of the work, these tacos are an easy way to bring bold flavors to the table. The chicken turns out tender and flavorful with minimal effort. Just set it and forget it, then assemble your tacos when you’re ready to eat. It’s a perfect option for busy days when you still want something homemade. A simple way to enjoy a classic dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Beef Con Queso Dip

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

This warm, cheesy dip is packed with beef and spices, making it a crowd-pleaser with almost no effort. Everything comes together quickly on the stove, so you won’t be stuck prepping for long. Serve it with chips, bread, or veggies for an easy appetizer. Perfect for game days, gatherings, or just a simple snack. A quick and hassle-free way to bring Mexican-inspired flavors to any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Beef Con Queso Dip

Mexican Steak Pizza

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

This pizza brings bold, seasoned steak and melty cheese together for an easy twist on a classic. The toppings cook quickly, making this a great option when you need dinner fast. Whether made with homemade or store-bought dough, it’s simple to prepare. Slice it up for a fun, shareable meal without much effort. A quick way to enjoy steak with flavors inspired by Mexican cooking.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Steak Pizza

Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Lemon ricotta cookies on rack with icing bowl.
Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These soft and slightly sweet cookies come together quickly with just a few simple ingredients. The ricotta keeps them light, while the lemon adds a fresh, bright flavor. They bake up fast, making them a great choice for a last-minute dessert. No complicated steps or fancy techniques are needed. A perfect way to enjoy a sweet treat with a hint of Italian influence.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Breakfast Chorizo Burrito

A close-up image of a sliced breakfast burrito filled with seasoned meat and eggs served on a white plate with avocado slices and dipping sauce in the background.
Breakfast Chorizo Burrito. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Packed with seasoned chorizo and fluffy eggs, this burrito makes a great grab-and-go breakfast. Everything cooks in one pan, keeping things simple and cleanup easy. Wrap it up with cheese and salsa for a filling start to the day. It’s a quick way to enjoy bold flavors without much effort. A great choice for busy mornings when you need something fast and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Chorizo Burrito

Chicken Chop Suey

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

This stir-fry dish comes together in minutes, making it a great option for a quick meal. The tender chicken and crisp vegetables cook in a simple, flavorful sauce. Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling plate with minimal effort. Everything cooks in one pan, so cleanup is easy. A simple way to enjoy classic Asian flavors without a complicated prep.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chop Suey

Minestrone Soup with Sausage

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

This hearty soup is packed with vegetables, beans, and sausage, making it a great one-pot meal. Everything simmers together, letting the flavors blend with very little effort. Serve it with bread for a cozy and filling dinner. It’s a great option for colder nights when you want something warm without spending hours in the kitchen. A simple way to bring Italian-inspired comfort food to your table.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

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

This homemade bread requires almost no effort, making it a great way to enjoy fresh-baked goodness at home. The dough comes together easily, and the long resting time does all the work. With a crisp crust and soft interior, it pairs well with soups, pastas, or spreads. No fancy equipment or complicated techniques are needed. A great way to enjoy fresh bread with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

A plate of freshly cooked Filipino banana turon lumpia spring rolls.
Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy banana-filled rolls cook up quickly and make for a sweet and simple treat. The caramelized filling and crunchy wrapper create the perfect balance of textures. They’re easy to make and great for a quick snack or dessert. Serve them warm for the best flavor and crunch. A fast and effortless way to enjoy a favorite Filipino street food.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

Alfredo Steak Pasta

Alfredo steak pasta in skillet with wooden spoon.
Alfredo Steak Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy pasta dish combines tender steak with a rich Alfredo sauce for a comforting meal. Everything comes together quickly, making it perfect for a busy night. The steak cooks fast, and the sauce is smooth and flavorful without extra steps. Serve it with a side of bread or a salad for a complete meal. A simple way to enjoy restaurant-style flavors at home.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

Vegan Mexican Rice

Mexican rice in small oval serving dish with spoon.
Vegan Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This flavorful rice dish is packed with spices and cooks up quickly, making it a great side or base for a meal. The simple ingredients come together easily with no complicated steps. Serve it with beans, veggies, or your favorite protein for a complete plate. Everything cooks in one pot, keeping cleanup easy. A great way to add a Mexican-inspired touch to any meal without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice

Wet Burrito

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

This smothered burrito is packed with filling and covered in sauce for a hearty, comforting meal. Everything cooks up quickly, and the sauce adds extra flavor without extra work. Serve it with rice, beans, or on its own for a complete dish. It’s an easy way to bring restaurant-style flavors to your kitchen. A simple and satisfying option when you want something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Wet Burrito

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

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

This stir-fry comes together fast, making it perfect for a busy night. The shrimp cook quickly, and the broccoli stays crisp with minimal effort. Tossed in a flavorful sauce, everything is ready in minutes. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal. A great way to enjoy Asian-inspired flavors without a long prep.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Shrimp Scampi

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

This shrimp dish cooks up in minutes, making it a great option when you need something fast. The buttery sauce is packed with flavor and pairs perfectly with pasta or crusty bread. Everything comes together in one pan, keeping things simple. Serve it as a main dish or a light meal without extra work. A quick and easy way to enjoy seafood with an Italian twist.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Korean Beef and Broccoli

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

This beef and broccoli dish is coated in a rich, flavorful sauce and comes together quickly. The thinly sliced beef cooks fast, making it a great choice for busy nights. Serve it over rice for a complete and filling meal. Everything is made in one pan, keeping cleanup simple. A quick way to enjoy Korean-inspired flavors without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Korean Beef and Broccoli

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