17 dishes that aren’t your average dinner fare

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Step outside the box of conventional meals with these 17 dishes that are anything but your average dinner fare. Each recipe is a testament to the creativity and diversity that can be found in kitchens around the world, offering flavors and textures that are designed to intrigue and delight. Perfect for dinner parties that aim to impress or simply to break the monotony of weeknight meals, these dishes promise an adventure on a plate, making every bite a journey worth savoring.

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Think of savory, caramelized pork belly cubes, each bite bursting with smoky flavor and a hint of sweetness, making it a standout choice for your next gathering. It’s not your typical BBQ fare but delivers a mouthwatering experience that keeps guests coming back for more. Serve these Pork Belly Burnt Ends for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transport yourself to the shores of the Mediterranean with this aromatic chicken bake, featuring juicy chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs, creating a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is flavorful. It’s a departure from your usual dinner lineup, offering a taste of exotic cuisine without the fuss. Treat your palates to a Mediterranean adventure tonight.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Picture a hearty bowl of pasta and beans swimming in a rich, tomato-based broth, warming you from the inside out on a chilly evening, making it a comforting yet unconventional dinner choice. This Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not just a meal; it’s a cozy embrace on a cold night, bringing Italian-inspired comfort to your table in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy the tender, oven-baked chicken thighs smothered in a luscious onion gravy, a twist on the classic comfort food that will become a family favorite. This dish offers a comforting hug, combining simplicity with rich, creamy flavors for a satisfying meal that’s anything but ordinary. Elevate your dinner routine with this comforting delight.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this succulent cod dish, featuring flaky fish infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs, transporting your palate to sun-drenched shores with every bite. It’s a refreshing departure from traditional seafood fare, offering a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Treat yourself to a taste of coastal cuisine with this Mediterranean Cod.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash on a platter with gravy.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Get ready to savor the bold flavors of Hungary with this classic Chicken Paprikash, featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich paprika-infused sauce, delivering a taste of Eastern European comfort in every bite. It’s a departure from your usual chicken dishes, offering a hearty, soul-warming experience guaranteed to please.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Million Dollar spaghetti

Spaghetti with meat and cheese in a baking dish
Million Dollar spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Elevate your pasta game with Million Dollar Spaghetti, a decadent twist on a classic favorite, featuring layers of pasta, creamy cheese, savory sauce, and seasoned ground beef, creating a dish that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying. This isn’t your average spaghetti; it’s a luxurious culinary experience worth every penny.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar spaghetti

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

A casserole dish with chicken and vegetables in it.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking to try something new and delicious, you have to try our Shrimp and Grits Casserole. This dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and a mix of spices that will leave you feeling satisfied and comforted. It’s not your typical weeknight meal, but it’s perfect for brunch or dinner and offers a taste of Southern hospitality that will make you feel right at home.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Curried chicken salad in a blue bowl.
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking to add some excitement to your salad routine? Try this delicious Curried Chicken Salad, which features juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, sweet raisins, and a touch of curry spice. This refreshing departure from ordinary lunch options is a flavorful and nutritious meal, perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Experience the hearty flavors of Eastern Europe with this Authentic Hungarian Goulash, featuring tender beef, savory paprika, and hearty vegetables, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. It’s not your average stew but offers a taste of traditional Hungarian cuisine that’s sure to warm you from the inside out.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

A closeup shot of two tacos filled with smoked pork belly and vegetables.
Smoked Pork Belly Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Take your taco game to the next level with these flavorful Smoked Pork Belly Tacos, featuring tender, smoky pork belly nestled in warm tortillas and topped with vibrant salsa and creamy guacamole, offering a taste sensation that’s sure to impress. It’s not your typical taco night fare but delivers a burst of bold flavors and textures in every bite, making it a must-try for any taco enthusiast.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Get ready to experience a fancy pizza with our Ham & Asparagus Pizza. It’s got a crispy crust and is topped with yummy ham, tender asparagus, and melty cheese, creating a cool taste that’s perfect for pizza night or any occasion. It’s not your typical pizza, but it’s like a cool twist on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Braised Beef Short Ribs with gravy and mashed potatoes.
Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Indulge in the rich flavors of these Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs, featuring melt-in-your-mouth meat bathed in a savory garlic-infused sauce, offering a decadent dining experience that’s perfect for special occasions or weekend indulgence. It’s not your average beef dish but delivers a depth of flavor that will have you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Baked Spanish Rice

Baked Spanish Rice in two black baking dishes.
Baked Spanish Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your dinner routine with this flavorful Baked Spanish Rice, featuring fluffy rice infused with tomatoes, peppers, and spices, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s a departure from your usual side dishes, offering a taste of Spanish cuisine that’s sure to please. Add a pop of flavor to your table with this special dish tonight.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tomato & Tuna in a bowl.
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a burst of freshness with this vibrant Wheat Berry Salad, featuring hearty grains, succulent tuna, juicy tomatoes, and crisp vegetables, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. It’s not your typical salad but offers a satisfying and wholesome meal option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze on a round platter.
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fire up the grill and treat yourself to these succulent Smoked Chicken Legs, featuring tender meat infused with smoky flavor and a sweet yet tangy red pepper glaze, offering a taste sensation that’s sure to impress. It’s not your average barbecue fare but delivers a mouthwatering experience that will have you licking your fingers.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Steak & Pasta Salad

Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combine the best of both worlds with this hearty Steak & Pasta Salad, featuring juicy steak slices, al dente pasta, crisp veggies, and tangy dressing, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s not your typical salad but offers a robust and flavorful option that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetite.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

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