Chopped cilantro (coriander leaf)

The recipe is taken from the book "Holiday salads and appetizers. Very simple.

The recipe is taken from the book "Seafood. Very simple.

Fried dumplings (jiaozi) are a vibrant dish of Chinese cuisine, symbolizing comfort and family traditions. Their history traces back to ancient China, where jiaozi were considered signs of wealth and prosperity. The crispy golden crust and juicy meat filling with hints of ginger and fresh cilantro make them unforgettable in taste. Unlike boiled dumplings, fried jiaozi acquire an appetizing texture and rich aroma. They pair perfectly with soy sauce and thin slices of scallion. They can be served as a standalone dish or alongside spicy Chinese sides. Jiaozi is not just food; it's a true gastronomic journey into the heart of Chinese culinary art.

Eggplant satsivi with walnuts is a true gastronomic masterpiece of Georgian cuisine. This exquisite recipe has roots in ancient traditions when satsivi was made with walnut sauce for festive feasts. Here, eggplants serve as a tender base, while the filling of fried onions, garlic, and walnuts gives the dish a rich flavor with a hint of spiciness. Wine vinegar adds a subtle tanginess, and herbs refresh the composition. After marinating for several days, satsivi gains depth of flavor and becomes even more aromatic. It is enjoyed chilled, savoring the silky texture of the eggplants and the rich walnut dressing. This dish pairs wonderfully with Georgian bread and aromatic wine, highlighting the richness of Caucasian culinary traditions.

Cheesy patties with jalapeño are a bold combination of classic Italian cuisine with spicy Mexican flavors. Their story begins with traditional meat patties that gained a new twist thanks to the addition of zesty jalapeño and aromatic cheeses. Tender beef mince infused with parsley and cilantro harmonizes with gooey mozzarella and rich parmesan. The spicy kick of the pepper adds contrast, making the taste vibrant and memorable. The patties are fried to an appetizing golden crust and then kept juicy under a lid. They can be served with fresh vegetables or a light sauce, making them a perfect choice for those who appreciate the richness of Italian cuisine with an unexpected spicy accent.

Chicken shawarma pie with tahini and yogurt sauce is an incredible combination of flavors and textures inspired by Jewish culinary traditions. Crispy phyllo dough envelops tender chicken marinated in spices and layers of baked potatoes, creating a multi-layered gastronomic delight. The tahini-yogurt sauce adds creamy softness and a hint of tanginess, highlighting the Eastern spices. Historically, shawarma spread from Middle Eastern countries, and this pie is an original interpretation of the classic dish. It is perfect for festive gatherings as well as cozy family dinners. Each bite of this pie reveals a rich palette of flavors and transports you to the atmosphere of ancient Eastern bazaars.

Gratin of sea bass with Carmenere wine sauce is a refined dish reflecting the spirit of Latin American cuisine. This recipe combines tender sea bass fillet with a fragrant crispy crust of white bread, herbs, and melted butter, creating a harmony of flavors and textures. The Carmenere wine sauce adds richness to the dish with subtle fruity and spicy notes, while spinach, chestnuts, and pine nuts complement it as an exquisite garnish. This dish is perfect for festive dinners, allowing one to enjoy a gastronomic masterpiece with a rich flavor profile.

Scallops sautéed in olive oil with garlic and green pebre sauce are a true delight for seafood lovers. This Latin American recipe combines the tenderness of scallops with the spicy freshness of pebre sauce. The sauce, originating from Chilean cuisine, complements the dish with bright notes of cilantro, lemon, and chili pepper. A light blanching process preserves the juiciness of the seafood, while subtle aromatic accents make the flavor multifaceted. The dish is served with traditional milcao – a potato flatbread with basil and crispy bacon, adding texture and richness. Perfect for a special dinner where you want to feel the freshness of the sea breeze in every bite.

Daikon and carrot salad is a refined harmony of freshness and crunchy texture. Daikon, a Japanese radish, adds a slight spiciness that is softened by the sweetness of the carrot. Aromatic poppy seeds, lightly toasted, reveal deep nutty notes, while cilantro adds brightness and freshness. The dressing made from soy sauce, honey, and lime highlights the interplay of flavors, uniting them into a whole. This salad, though rooted in European cuisine, carries Eastern motifs inspired by Japanese gastronomy. It pairs perfectly with meat dishes or serves as a light dinner on its own, offering a sense of lightness and freshness with every bite.

Arabic bean salad is a vibrant dish that embodies the flavors and traditions of Arab cuisine. The base is beans, which after soaking and cooking become soft, perfectly complementing the rich taste of pine nuts, the freshness of lemon juice, and subtle spicy notes of cumin. This salad stands out not only for its balanced flavor but also for its nutritional value. The heat from chili and paprika adds a light spiciness to the dish, while cilantro adds freshness. In Arab countries, such salads are served as part of mezze—a selection of appetizers accompanying main dishes. Bean salad pairs wonderfully with meat dishes, flatbreads, or simply with crispy bread. Its rich flavor and texture make it an excellent choice for Mediterranean cuisine lovers.

Mexican-style shrimp with garlic sauce is a fragrant dish infused with the spirit of the sunny coast. It originates from traditional Mexican cuisine, known for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Tender steamed shrimp perfectly complement a rich vegetable sauce featuring sweet tomatoes, spicy green chili, and aromatic cilantro. Garlic adds zest, while lime juice provides a refreshing tang that highlights the seafood character of the dish. This appetizer is perfect for a summer dinner or festive gathering, served either as a standalone dish or alongside Mexican tortillas. Its simplicity in preparation makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to enjoy the flavors of Mexico without leaving home.

Korean-style chicken gizzards are a vibrant dish of Pan-Asian cuisine inspired by Korean culinary traditions. In the past, chicken gizzards were often used in poor areas, transforming from a simple offal into true culinary art. Here they are first boiled and then simmered in fragrant soy sauce with garlic and red pepper, acquiring a rich, slightly spicy flavor. Sautéed onions add sweetness while cilantro brings freshness and contrast. The dish pairs excellently with rice or noodles, revealing the complexity of Asian flavors. It warms, nourishes, and surprises with its depth – a wonderful choice for lovers of rich aromas and original cuisine.

Green cheese balls with herbs are an exquisite appetizer inspired by European cuisine. Their delicate flavor is created by a harmonious blend of soft cheese, zesty garlic, and a hint of black pepper's spiciness. The filling of stuffed olives adds a touch of sophistication, while the surrounding herbs provide freshness and an appetizing appearance. This recipe is perfect for festive tables, cocktail parties, or simply to delight yourself and loved ones with an original treat. Thanks to the coating of aromatic dill, cilantro, and tarragon, the balls acquire a rich herbal taste, and their tender texture makes each serving unforgettable. They pair wonderfully with white wine and light snacks, creating an atmosphere of comfort and culinary enjoyment.

Herring salad with beetroot has a rich history rooted in Russian culinary traditions. It combines the tenderness of herring, the sweet juiciness of beetroot, and the spiciness of pickled onions to create a harmonious flavor. The yogurt dressing adds freshness and lightness, while chopped cilantro adds a zesty note. This salad is perfect as a standalone dish or as an appetizer for festive tables. Its rich taste unfolds beautifully after a short infusion when the ingredients exchange aromas. Herring salad with beetroot is not only a culinary delight but also a piece of Russian gastronomic traditions passed down through generations.

Meatballs in tomato sauce with cheese are a classic Italian dish that combines the tenderness of meatballs with the rich flavor of tomato sauce and the spiciness of melted cheese. Historically, meatballs originated as a way to use meat economically but have become a cult dish in various countries over time. The Italian version is characterized by a rich tomato flavor, soft texture, and aroma of fresh herbs. Meatballs are made with soaked bread for airiness, simmered in tomato sauce, and topped with melting cheese before serving to create an appetizing crust. They are perfect as a standalone dish or as an accompaniment to pasta or potatoes. This cozy, hearty, and incredibly delicious food warms the soul.