A hidden gem from the Amalfi Coast, Spaghetti alla Nerano is a deceptively simple pasta featuring fried zucchini and cheese, born in the village of Nerano. The zucchini is sautéed or lightly fried until caramelized, then emulsified with pasta water and Provolone del Monaco or aged cheese to form a luxuriously silky sauce. A perfect summer dish with humble roots and bold flavor.
This dish features tender octopus, first braised for optimal tenderness, then grilled and basted with fiery Tunisian harissa. A red chili paste infused with garlic, cumin, caraway, and olive oil. The charred edges meet smoky heat in a dish that is vibrant, satisfying, and boldly Mediterranean.
Aguachile (literally "chile water") is a bold and spicy dish from the Pacific coast of Mexico, especially Sinaloa. It's like ceviche’s wilder cousin Featuring raw shrimp quickly "cooked" in lime juice, then drenched in a punchy green chili sauce with cilantro, cucumber, garlic, and serrano peppers. It’s cool, fiery, and perfect for hot days, margaritas, and fresh tortillas.
Bacalhau à Brás is a comforting Portuguese dish made with salt cod (bacalhau) that's been shredded and sautéed with shoestring potatoes, onions, and eggs, then garnished with olives and parsley. It’s rustic, flavorful, and deeply tied to Lisbon's culinary soul Simple ingredients, harmoniously prepared.
A cult-classic from the 1980s Silver Palate Cookbook, Chicken Marbella is a delightful harmony of Mediterranean flavors Chicken marinated in garlic, oregano, prunes, olives, capers, and vinegar, then roasted until golden and caramelized. The result? A tangy-sweet, briny, utterly delicious dish that’s just as elegant for entertaining as it is easy for weeknights.
Galbi (갈비), meaning "ribs" in Korean, is a classic Korean BBQ dish made with flanken-cut beef short ribs, marinated in a sweet-savory sauce and grilled to juicy, caramelized perfection. Traditionally served with rice, lettuce wraps, and an array of banchan (side dishes), it’s a celebration of bold flavors and communal dining.
Ropa Vieja, meaning “old clothes” in Spanish, is Cuba’s national dish. Tender shredded flank steak is simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce with peppers, onions, olives, and a flavorful mix of spices. This dish is deeply comforting and incredibly aromatic. Perfect with rice, black beans, and fried plantains.
A Milanese masterpiece of slow-braised veal shanks, gently simmered in white wine, broth, and aromatics, traditionally served with saffron risotto and finished with gremolata.
Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a beloved Italian baked pasta dish, where tender pasta tubes are filled with a creamy, herby mixture of ricotta cheese and wilted spinach, then blanketed in rich tomato sauce and béchamel, finished with melted cheese. It’s luxurious, cozy, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Paneer Tikka Masala is a beloved vegetarian classic featuring marinated cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) that are grilled or pan-seared, then simmered in a rich, creamy, tomato-based masala sauce. Bursting with bold spices and velvety texture, it’s perfect with naan or rice and is a showstopper at any dinner table.
A vibrant, nutritious main course that’s as satisfying as it is eye-catching. These roasted bell peppers are filled with a hearty mix of quinoa, black beans, vegetables, and spices, then baked to tender perfection. Ideal for meal prep, meatless Mondays, or impressing guests with a plant-based dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Mushroom Wellington is a decadent vegetarian centerpiece, perfect for holidays or elevated dinners. Layers of savory mushroom duxelles, wilted greens, and optional extras like goat cheese or walnuts are wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry, offering rich flavor and impressive presentation without the meat.
Elk stew is a deeply satisfying dish that brings together the robust flavor of elk meat with the earthy sweetness of root vegetables. Slow-simmered with red wine, herbs, and stock, it’s a warming, comforting meal perfect for cold weather or a cozy dinner by the fire.
This refined yet comforting dish brings together tender, lightly gamey pheasant with a silky, herbaceous mushroom cream sauce. It’s perfect for showcasing the subtle flavor of pheasant without overpowering it, and ideal for autumn or winter feasts. Pair it with rustic vegetables or a creamy mash for a truly satisfying meal.
A rustic and soulful dish from the hills of Tuscany, Pappardelle al Cinghiale features wild boar slow-braised in red wine, tomatoes, and herbs until it becomes rich and tender, clinging perfectly to broad ribbons of pappardelle pasta. It’s bold, earthy, and deeply satisfying — ideal for cool evenings and hearty appetites.
Rabbit Cacciatore is a hearty, countryside-style Italian stew where rabbit is braised slowly with tomatoes, wine, herbs, and vegetables until tender and flavorful. Cacciatore means “hunter-style,” referring to traditional meals made with game, wild herbs, and pantry staples. This version balances the natural mildness of rabbit with a rich, earthy sauce.
This elegant game dish pairs tender venison medallions with a deep, aromatic sauce infused with juniper berries, red wine, and herbs. Juniper adds a subtle piney warmth that complements the richness of venison beautifully, creating a dish that’s earthy, bold, and perfect for autumn or winter dining.
A chicken roulade is a beautiful and refined dish made by rolling thinly pounded chicken breasts around a flavorful filling, then searing and roasting until perfectly cooked. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a special weeknight meal, this dish offers both visual appeal and delicious results. The filling here features spinach, garlic, and creamy cheese, but it’s easily customizable.
Duck à l'Orange is a refined French dish that pairs crispy-skinned roast duck with a vibrant, tangy-sweet orange sauce. The contrast between the duck’s rich, gamey flavor and the bright citrus glaze is what makes this dish unforgettable. It’s elegant, festive, and perfect for special occasions.
Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a beloved North Indian dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a velvety tomato-based sauce enriched with butter, cream, and warm spices. Known for its mild heat and rich flavor, it’s both comforting and luxurious, perfect for pairing with naan or basmati rice.