25 Asian and Pacific Islander Recipes That’ll Impress Just About Anyone

Before I begin, here’s a cool piece of trivia for you. Did you know that May is officially Asian American and Pacific Islander Recipe Heritage Month? Well, now you do.

Throughout this month, we celebrate the impact these groups have had in the gastronomy world. As a token of my appreciation for these cuisines, I’ve curated this epic list of 25 Asian and Pacific Islander recipes that will set your taste buds on fire.

If you are looking for easy to moderately difficult recipes to add some spice and sass to your dinner table, look no further. From traditional favorites like sushi and noodles to new and exciting dishes like Korean BBQ and Thai curry, this list has something that’ll impress even the fussiest eaters.

Now, I understand that it’s nearly impossible to be objective with food. What is even more difficult is narrowing down to just 25 dishes after sampling a smorgasbord of authentic delicacies from the Asia-Pacific region. But that’s what I do. I undertake the most difficult task so that you don’t have to.

Enough chit-chat, let’s get down to business now, shall we?

Spicy Vegetable Lo Mein Recipe

I decided to start off the list with one of the most popular takeaway dishes of all time – spicy lo-mein. This recipe packs the goodness of vegetables. So if you are looking for ways to include more fiber into your diet, this is the perfect recipe for you.

This ultimate post-hangover dish features a medley of fresh vegetables and a zesty sauce that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.

Instead of ordering takeout, prepare a vegetable-packed Spicy Vegetable Lo Mein Recipe dish at home. Be careful to drain your noodles thoroughly before adding them to the stir-fry since damp noodles will make the dish sloppy. To make the dish less spicy, eliminate the Sriracha hot sauce.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of lo mein, linguine, or spaghetti
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil, toasted
• 12 ounces Chinese broccoli or broccolini (see Tips)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (reduced sodium)
• 1 tablespoon Shao Hsing rice wine or dry sherry (see Tips)
• 1 tsp sriracha or other Asian hot sauce
• 2 tbsp. peanut oil, divided

Get the full recipe here.

LEARN MORE: Winter Spiced Almond and Pecan Butter Recipe {Vegan, Paleo, Gluten, Dairy, Sugar-Free}

Island-style Fried Rice Recipe

Who doesn’t love a steaming hot plate of spicy fried rice? It’s essentially carb heaven on a plate! My ultimate comfort food.

Follow this Island-style fried rice recipe to effortlessly spice up your rice dish. This authentic recipe uses fresh vegetables and a variety of spices to level up the flavor and complexity.

You can use just about any type of rice for this recipe, but brown rice or basmati rice works best.

Island-style Fried Rice Recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad for a droolworthy, filling meal.

That being said, is it the most authentic Island-style recipe on God’s green earth? Probably not. That’s because Hawaiian has its own take on fried rice. This is my take on the fried rice popular among Hawaiians.

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 cup jasmine rice, uncooked
• 3 c. water
• 2 tbsp. canola oil
• 3 beaten eggs
• 2 tbsp of canola oil
• 3 tbsp of oyster sauce
• 12 tsp garlic powder

Get the full recipe here.

Sous Vide Shrimp Recipe

I understand that not everyone has a sous vide machine lying around in their kitchen. But if you happen to own one, here’s a perfect weeknight dinner idea for you.

Sous viding (cooking in a sealed bag in a water bath at a specified temperature) the shrimps ensures they are perfectly cooked through and succulent inside.

Shrimp prepared using this reliable technique is never overdone or rough, making them for a grand feast. These shrimps can be served as an appetizer, a major dish, or even a nutritious snack. You can whip up an amazing Asian-style sous vide shrimp recipe with just a few basic components.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh or frozen uncooked shrimp (deveined and peeled)
• 2 tsp olive oil,
• salt, and pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce I use low sodium.
• 2 tsp fresh minced garlic

Get the full recipe here.

LEARN MORE: 25+ Japanese Shrimp Recipes to Make Your Taste Buds Tingle

Coconut Lime Grilled Chicken and Rice Recipe

As someone who has grown up eating and cooking South-east Asian food, I believe very few flavor combinations can match up to the sensational duo of coconut and lime.

This grilled chicken bowl with coconut Lime sauce is a carnival of flavors in your mouth!

Chicken marinated in a creamy coconut lime sauce grilled over a bed of fluffy white rice, garnished with copious amounts of mint and cilantro will make you forget all the worries in your life for at least a few hours.

This coconut, lime grilled chicken and Rice are a simple, yet flavorful, dish that is ideal for a summer barbeque. The coconut lime marinade is used to flavor the chicken before it is cooked to perfection.

It’s an excellent side dish, thanks to the chicken broth and cilantro flavoring. Your family and friends are going to be mighty impressed!

Ingredients

• 2-3 limes, juiced and zested (about 1/4 cup)
• 2 tbsp of fish sauce
• 1/4 cup full-fat coconut milk (in a can, solid/creamy stuff for a creamier sauce)
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
• 1 tbsp lemongrass paste (or freshly grated lemongrass, if available!)
• half a jalapeno, ribs and seeds removed
• 1 garlic clove
• fresh cilantro in a small bundle
• fresh mint in a small bundle

Get the full recipe here.

LEARN MORE: 10+ Easy Chicken Breast Recipes (From Breakfast to Dinner)

Tinola (Filipino Ginger-garlic Chicken Soup) Recipe

Craving for a “good soup” to warm yourself on a bone-chillingly cold day? Here’s a recipe you will love.

Tinola, a hearty chicken soup seasoned with ginger and garlic, is served in countless variations throughout the Philippines. Malunggay leaves (also known as moringa) can be found fresh or frozen at Asian markets.

A good substitute is bok choy. Increase the amount of garlic and fish sauce to make a more flavorful soup. Serve this simple and healthy chicken soup with jasmine rice, quinoa, or wild rice.

This recipe is for a traditional Filipino soup made with chicken, ginger, and garlic. Tinola is typically served with white rice and is perfect for a hearty and comforting meal. This recipe is easy to follow and can be made in under an hour.

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp avocado oil or canola oil
• 1/2 cup yellow onion,
• chopped 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh ginger
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 6 minced garlic cloves
• 2 cups malunggay or bok choy leaves, chopped

Get the full recipe here.

Garlic Shrimp Kabobs Recipe

Kabobs are generally made of minced meat. So this one is more like a seafood twist on kebobs and oh boy! These are a party in your mouth.

This recipe for garlic shrimp kabobs is the best one for grilling during the summer. The shrimp are prepared to perfection by first being marinated in a marinade consisting of lemon, garlic, and various herbs, and then being grilled.

These kabobs make for a great and uncomplicated lunch when accompanied by a straightforward green salad.

This is an easy recipe for shrimp kabobs that doesn’t take much time to prepare, requiring few ingredients yet producing a dish that is packed with flavor. Place on a bed of rice and garnish with fresh lemon wedges before serving.

Ingredients

• 1 pound frozen peeled and thawed shrimp
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 tbsp. lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pinch parsley, finely chopped metal skewers

Get the full recipe here.

Sous Vide Halibut Recipe

Wondering how NOT TO overcook fish? Just sous vide it!

These sous vide halibut recipe is the perfect way to cook fish! The sous vide method ensures that your fish will be cooked to perfection, Halibut is a firm and flaky white fish with a mild flavor. The most difficult aspect of preparing halibut is that it is so easy to overcook.

Traditional methods such as grilling, pan-searing, and baking have a very narrow window of perfect doneness, and the added flavors from the lemon and thyme make it even more moreish.

Plus, it’s a healthy recipe that’s low in calories and fat. So, if you’re looking for a healthy and delicious fish recipe, this Sous Vide Halibut Recipe is a perfect choice!

Ingredients

• 1 pound of halibut filet
• 1 garlic clove
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• salt to taste (I used 1/2 teaspoon)
• pepper to taste (I used 1/2 teaspoon)
• 4 sprigs of fresh thyme, chopped Optional
• 5 slices of lemon optional

Get the full recipe here.

Everything Greek Pork Pitas Recipe

These Greek Pork Pitas are the perfect on-the-go meal! Packed with flavorful pork, veggies, and a zesty tzatziki sauce, these pitas will satisfy your hunger without weighing you down.

Plus, they’re easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. So, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick and easy dinner option, these Greek Pork Pitas are sure to hit the spot!

Ingredients

• 3-pound trimmed pork shoulder
• 1 chopped onion
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Get the full recipe here.

Vegetarian Protein Bowl Recipe

This nutrient-rich veggie protein bowl is a great way to incorporate protein, fibers, and vitamins into your meal.

This recipe is a no-brainer and you can easily customize it to your liking.

Everything you need for a complete meal is in this vegetarian protein bowl. Beans not only add protein to the farro mixture but also creaminess. Chimichurri sauce adds just the right amount of zing to the dish. This bowl is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 8 cup water
• 1-1/4 cup farro
• 1 (15 oz.) can rinse cannellini beans, no salt added
• 4 cups florets cauliflower
• 1 sweet potato (1 pound), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil + 1/4 cup (divided)
• 2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning,
• 3/4 tsp salt, divided

Get the full recipe here.

supreme pizza braid Recipe

Braided pizza stuffed with veggies and meat of your choice – what’s not to love, eh?

This supreme pizza braid recipe is a perfect balance of carbs, protein, and fiber, making it a great option for a quick and healthy meal. It’s also fairly simple to make, so you can enjoy it any night of the week.

For the stuffing, I like to combine Italian sausage, pepperoni, pizza sauce, green bell peppers, black olives, red onion, and mozzarella cheese in a Family Size Pizza Crust and is topped with garlic-parsley butter. So what are you waiting for? Try it soon and thank me later!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Italian sausage, ground
• 3 ounces pepperoni
• a half-cup pizza sauce
• 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Get the full recipe here.

LEARN MORE: How to Make Pizza Rolls Crispy in the Microwave (3-step Guide)

Fish Suruwa (Fijian Fish Curry) Recipe

Try this delectable Fijian fish curry for a quick and flavorful Sunday lunch. Simmer pieces of firm white fish in a spiced coconut mixture.

The curry is made with fresh fish, coconut milk, and a variety of spices, and it is served over steamed rice. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons (44 milliliters) of vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, peeled, and cut into small pieces.
• a single stick of cinnamon
• 3 peeled and sliced cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 long red chilies, cut after having the stalks and seeds removed.
• 1-1/2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin that has been roasted

Get the full recipe here.

LEARN MORE: 15 Best Sous Vide Fish Recipes for Easy, Delicious Dinners

Paleo Pecan-Maple Salmon Recipe

Looking for a sweet and savory but also super healthy salmon recipe? Well, your hunt for the most foodgasmic salmon recipe ends here.

This dish is packed with an array of complex flavors, thanks to the pecans and maple syrup, and is healthy too, as it’s made without any processed ingredients. What’s not to love? Give this recipe a try tonight and see for yourself!

Ingredients

• 4 (4 ounces) salmon fillets,
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• smoked paprika 1 teaspoon
• 1/2 tsp chipotle pepper powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder

Get the full recipe here.

Lemon Garlic Sous Vide Cod Recipe

Lemon Garlic Sous Vide Cod – easy, yummy, and unforgettable, when made right! The sous vide cooking method eliminates the guesswork and enables you to prepare a restaurant-quality fish dinner at home. The cod is precisely cooked to the temperature you specify, leaving it tender and flaky!

This cod recipe is ideal for a quick and healthy weeknight meal. The fish is sous vide cooked in a garlic and lemon sauce, which infuses it with flavor while keeping it moist and flaky. For a complete meal, pair it with some roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

This easy-to-prepare dish is ideal for days when you don’t feel like spending eons on meal prep.

The fish is sous vide cooked in a garlic and lemon sauce, which infuses it with flavor while keeping it moist and flaky.

Ingredients

• 3 cod fillets 12 ounces or 340 grams in total, either thawed or fresh*
• 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon sliced into slices
• 1/4 teaspoon of the garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
• black pepper pounded to a fine powder,
• 1/8 teaspoon or to taste

Get the full recipe here.

Crunchy Roll Bowls Recipe

Amazing texture+lip-smacking taste+sizable dose of protein = the perfect meal for calorie-conscious folks.

These crunchy roll bowls are loaded with vegetables, lean protein, and a crispy crunch to satisfy any craving. And, best of all, you probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen right now!

This dish consists of a teriyaki-browned block of tofu served on a bed of sticky rice with edamame, cucumber, avocado, jalapeno, and a handful of crushed-up crunchy onions, buried under a thick drizzle of extra teriyaki and spicy mayo. So, instead of greasy spoons, make this Crunchy Roll Bowls recipe for your next meal.

Ingredients

• 1 block of extra firm tofu
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 2 cups shelled frozen edamame
• 1 finely diced cucumber
• 1 avocado, sliced or cut into chunks
• 1 thinly sliced jalapeno swish of neutral oil

Get the full recipe here.

LEARN MORE: How to Make Pizza Rolls Crispy in the Microwave (3-step Guide)

French Dips Recipe

These french dips sandwiches are the ideal side-kick for French onion soup. These filling sandwiches are a flavor bomb, thanks to the beautifully seasoned and slow-cooked beef, melted cheese, and a tasty dipping sauce.

They’re great for lunch or dinner! French Dips are sandwiches traditionally made with French bread, beef, and cheese.

Typically, the beef is roasted or slow-cooked, and the cheese is Gruyere or Swiss. Before eating, the sandwiches are dipped in a French onion soup or broth. French dips are a popular restaurant dish that can also be made at home.

For this recipe, you need to slow cook the beef with love and care and onions, garlic, and herbs. Dip the sandwich into your French onion soup, close your eyes, and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 2 tins of French onion soup
• 1/2 cup of red wine
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 sprig rosemary ground pepper
• 3 lb. chuck roast
• 12 slices provolone cheese
• 6 buns for sub sandwiches
• optional garnish: butter chopped parsley

Get the full recipe here.

Baked Portobello Mushrooms Recipe

Looking for a quick and tasty way to prepare mushrooms? Think portobello mushrooms. These baked portobello mushrooms are full of earthy flavors, and cheesiness, wonderfully complemented by a hint of garlic. You can serve it on the side of bbq.

This recipe is simple to make and requires only a few ingredients.

Ingredients

• 3/4 pound portobello mushrooms 340g, approximately
• 1 garlic clove
• 2 tbsp olive oil,
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tbsp grated parmesan
• 3 tbsp grated mozzarella

Get the full recipe here.

Pomegranate Guacamole Recipe

This Pomegranate Guacamole is a delicious and easy snack that is perfect for any occasion! Made with fresh pomegranate, avocado, onion, cilantro, and lime juice, this guacamole is sure to be a hit with everyone!

It is a delectable union of rich avocado, red onion, freshly squeezed lime, garlic, cilantro, serrano pepper, and pomegranate arils. If you are looking for a healthier holiday snack or appetizer alternative, look no further.

Ingredients

• 4 avocados,
• 1/2 red onion,
• 1/2 cup chopped pomegranate seeds,
• additional garnish ingredients
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, Chopped
• juice 1 lime,

Get the full recipe here.

Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe

Butter makes everything better, doesn’t it?

When it comes to rich and hearty holiday dishes, nothing beats good old-fashioned Canadian butter tarts.

There’s a reason why these sweet, buttery, caramel-flavored tarts are a national obsession in Canada. especially over the holidays!

The two main components of the dish are – a flaky pastry crust and a gooey, sweet filling. Rest assured, it will make you shamelessly ask for multiple servings. These tarts are best served hot and fresh from the oven. Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 cups (190 grams) of universal flour
• 1/2 teaspoon (6 grams) granulated sugar
• pinch salt
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) chilled unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup (45 grams) chilled shortening

Get the full recipe here.

Baked Eggs With Mushrooms and Asparagus Recipe

This Baked Eggs With Mushrooms and Asparagus recipe is a healthy and delicious way to start your day.

Packed with protein and fiber, this dish will keep you feeling full and satisfied all morning long. And, it’s easy to make ahead of time so you can just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

So, if you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious breakfast option, look no further than this Baked Eggs With Mushrooms and Asparagus recipe. Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 55g mushrooms, 2 oz
• 2 oz (55g) asparagus, trimmed weight
• 1 small garlic clove
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp. milk or cream
• 3 tablespoons grated cheddar or a cheddar-parmesan blend

Get the full recipe here.

Chicken Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken) Recipe

This Japanese-style fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor – as every fried chicken should be.

Karaage is a popular party cuisine since it may be served both as an appetizer or as a main course. As an appetizer or a light meal, this crispy chicken karaage pairs well with steamed veggies and rice.

The dish gets its key flavor from the aromatic ginger and soy sauce mixture used for marinating the chicken. Anyone who enjoys fried chicken will adore this dish!

You can also make a meal of it by serving it over rice and veggies, or eat it as a light snack. This humble chicken dish is sure to be a hit with everyone!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine Apple cider vinegar and vinegar would also work.
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 2 tsp grated ginger

Get the full recipe here.

Pan Seared Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Pan-seared fresh Alaskan sockeye salmon is not a dish you should miss if you love to fish (hey! That rhymed!).

In just twenty minutes, you can have delicious salmon on your plate, thanks to a straightforward spice combination and a speedy sear in a cast iron pan.

As the name suggests, the fish is pan-seared and then baked in the oven, resulting in a juicy and delicious piece of salmon.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a dinner party and can be served with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

• 1.5-pound fillet of wild Alaskan Sockeye salmon, cut into 5-6 ounce fillets (453-907 grams for whole fillet, 141-170 grams per cut fillet).
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp. Kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1-2 sliced lemons

Get the full recipe here,

Bolani Kadoo (Afghan Pumpkin Stuffed Flatbread) Recipe

Afghan pumpkin bolani kadoo is a scrumptious flatbread that is suitable for any event you can think of. Traditionally, the dish is prepared by stuffing Afghan pumpkins with a variety of contents, including meats, vegetables, and cheeses.

The pumpkins are then baked till tender. You can savor these on your own.

Ingredients

• 3-3/4 cups (1 lb 1 oz, 485 g) universal flour
• 1-1/2 teaspoons dry yeast
• 1-1/2 cups (375 ml) (375 ml) water that is lukewarm
• 1 tbsp sunflower oil plus more for frying
• Salt

Get the full recipe here.

LEARN MORE: 15+ Moroccan Pumpkin Recipes Worth Trying (Gordon Ramsey’s Recipe Included!)

Fish Crudo Recipe

Crudo means “raw” in Italian, and this dish consists of raw fish marinated in a citrus dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and flavorful. It can be served as an appetizer or as a main course. In any case, your guests will undoubtedly enjoy it.

The high quality of the fish is what distinguishes this Fish Crudo recipe. Use only the freshest fish you can find. Sushi-grade fish is preferred, but any fresh fish will suffice. The important thing is to get it as fresh as possible.

The marinade is another important component of this dish. A simple combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and orange juice works well. However, feel free to experiment with your herbs and spices.

Add a dash of heat with red pepper flakes or a hint of sweetness with honey. The possibilities are endless. Once you’ve prepared your fish and marinade, simply leave it in the marinade for 30 minutes. It’s then time to eat. Serve your Fish Crudo with bread or fresh vegetables on the side. Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 4 oz white fish 60g, as a chunk, ideally even in shape – I used rockling, but hake, bream, and other species are also suitable.
• 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
• 1/2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, or more to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon flaked sea salt
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 mint leaves, or more if small,
• 1 teaspoon microgreens, to garnish

Get the full recipe here

LEARN MORE: 15 Best Sous Vide Fish Recipes for Easy, Delicious Dinners

Grilled Haddock With Lemon-caper Sauce Recipe

This recipe is perfect for a summertime meal. The haddock is grilled to perfection and the lemon-caper sauce adds the perfect amount of flavor.

The dish is served with grilled lemon slices for a bit of acidity. This recipe is sure to wow any seafood lover.

Ingredients

• To make the sauce:
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (one large lemon)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp minced shallot
• 4 tbsp drained capers
• 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Get the full recipe here.

LEARN MORE: 10+ Easy Barracuda Recipes From Poached to Grilled

Coconut Butter Poached Lobster With Pineapple Green Curry Sauce Recipe

Wrapping up the list with something fancy schmancy, ideal summer supper, or a date night! Served with a pineapple green curry sauce, coconut butter-poached lobster is garnished with fresh cilantro and lime juice. This recipe is simple to make and will definitely amaze your special ones.

The lobster is flavored with coconut butter, which gives it a rich, creamy flavor, and pineapple green curry sauce, which brings in some sweetness and heat. For a balanced supper, serve this recipe with rice or quinoa. Bon appetit!

Ingredients

• for the lobster
• 21-1/2 lb live Atlantic lobsters with claws
• 1-1/2 sticks butter(12 tbsp)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1-1/2 organic coconut milk cans (20 ounces)
• 1-1/2 peeled ginger knob
• 1 cup pineapple, thinly sliced into 1/4 thick matchsticks (approximately 2″ long)

Get the full recipe here

LEARN MORE: Mango, Kale, Coconut + Lime Smoothie Recipe {Vegan, Raw, Paleo, gluten, Dairy, Sugar-Free}

Conclusion

Asian and Pacific Islander cuisine is some of the most diverse and flavorful in the world. These 25 recipes are a delicious way to enjoy this incredible cuisine. From traditional dishes to modern twists, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

So what are you waiting for? Get cooking!