25 Must-Try Foods Around the World This Summer
This summer, you’ve got the perfect opportunity to explore diverse culinary delights from around the globe. Envision savoring the tangy flavors of Tacos Al Pastor or the comforting richness of a classic Croissant. Each dish tells a story, reflecting its cultural roots and unique ingredients. As you commence on this flavorful journey, you’ll discover iconic tastes that can elevate your summer experience. But which dishes will make your must-try list?
Pad Thai – Thailand
When you think of summer flavors, Pad Thai from Thailand often comes to mind.
This iconic Thai streetfood bursts with fresh ingredients like rice noodles, peanuts, and lime. You can explore various Pad Thai variations, from shrimp to tofu, each offering a unique twist.
As you savor each bite, you’ll experience the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy—an unforgettable summer delight!
Tacos Al Pastor – Mexico
As you bite into Tacos Al Pastor, the vibrant flavors of Mexico come alive in every mouthful.
This beloved street food has roots in taco history, blending marinated pork with pineapple, cilantro, and onions, all wrapped in a warm corn tortilla.
Each bite transports you to bustling streets, highlighting the rich culinary traditions that make this dish a must-try this summer.
Croissant – France
The flaky layers of a freshly baked croissant beckon you to indulge in a true French delight.
This breakfast staple boasts buttery layers and a delicate, flaky texture that captures the essence of French pastry.
In Parisian cafes, expert pastry chefs showcase their baking techniques, highlighting its culinary history and cultural significance.
Explore gourmet variations to discover the endless possibilities of this iconic treat.
Sushi – Japan
While you might associate sushi with raw fish, this beloved Japanese dish is a vibrant celebration of flavors and textures that goes far beyond its common perception.
Explore various sushi types like nigiri, sashimi, and maki, each crafted with fresh sushi ingredients like vinegared rice, seaweed, and seasonal vegetables.
You’ll discover a world of taste that delights every palate during summer!
Poutine – Canada
After savoring the delicate flavors of sushi, it’s time to turn your attention to a dish that’s equally beloved but offers a completely different experience: poutine.
This iconic Quebec cuisine combines crispy fries, rich gravy, and squeaky cheese curds, delivering a hearty taste of Canadian comfort.
Perfect for sharing or indulging solo, it’s a dish that warms the soul during summer adventures.
Falafel – Middle East
As you explore the vibrant streets of the Middle East, make sure to seek out falafel, a beloved street food that’s both delicious and satisfying.
With its roots tracing back to ancient Egypt, falafel has evolved into various regional variations, from crispy chickpea balls to spiced fava bean patties.
Each bite offers a taste of rich history and cultural diversity you won’t want to miss!
Gelato – Italy
Just as falafel captivates the palate in the Middle East, gelato stands as a must-try indulgence in Italy.
With its rich gelato history dating back to the Renaissance, this creamy treat offers an array of gelato flavors, from classic pistachio to innovative lavender.
Each scoop delivers a revitalizing experience that perfectly captures the essence of Italian summer.
Don’t miss out on this delightful dessert!
Biryani – India
Biryani, a fragrant and flavorful rice dish, is a culinary masterpiece that you absolutely must experience in India this summer.
With its rich history, diverse regions, and tantalizing biryani spices, you’ll discover various types like Hyderabadi and Kolkata biryani.
Enjoy it served with delicious accompaniments during vibrant biryani festivals, showcasing the intricate cooking methods and unique ingredients that make this dish unforgettable.
Arepas – Venezuela
There’s something truly special about arepas, the beloved Venezuelan staple that’s become a must-try food this summer.
With countless arepa variations, you can enjoy them grilled, baked, or fried. The real magic lies in the fillings—try savory meats, creamy cheese, or fresh avocado.
Each bite offers a delightful blend of flavors, making arepas a delicious experience you won’t want to miss!
Churros – Spain
While you might think of churros as simply fried dough, they’re so much more than that—a quintessential Spanish treat that’s perfect for summer indulgence.
With a rich churros history dating back to the 16th century, you can savor various churros variations filled with chocolate or cream.
Dip them in thick hot chocolate for an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you craving more!
Kimchi – South Korea
If you haven’t tried kimchi yet, you’re missing out on one of South Korea’s most iconic dishes that bursts with flavor and health benefits.
This delicious side dish made from fermented vegetables follows traditional recipes and packs a punch.
Here’s why you should indulge:
- Probiotic powerhouse
- Versatile ingredient
- Nutrient-rich
- Unique spice blend
Dive into this culinary delight!
Ceviche – Peru
After savoring the bold flavors of kimchi, it’s time to explore another vibrant dish that’ll transport your taste buds to South America: ceviche from Peru.
This invigorating dish highlights fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, bringing out the essence of Peruvian ingredients.
You’ll find exciting ceviche variations, like those featuring mango or spicy peppers, each offering a unique twist on this classic favorite.
Pho – Vietnam
One bowl of pho can transport you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam, where the fragrant aroma of simmering broth fills the air.
This iconic noodle soup offers:
- Silky rice noodles
- Aromatic herbs
- Tender meat, often beef or chicken
- A rich, savory broth
Each slurp brings you closer to the heart of Vietnamese street food culture.
Don’t miss out!
Baklava – Greece
When you bite into a piece of baklava, the layers of flaky pastry and rich, nutty filling explode with flavor, transporting you to the sun-drenched shores of Greece.
This dessert reflects Greek traditions, with sweet variations often featuring honey or spices. Its historical origins and cultural significance shine through diverse regional differences, best served warm with coffee or yogurt for the perfect pairing.
Dim Sum – China
As you savor the last bite of baklava, your taste buds might crave something equally delightful from another part of the world: dim sum.
Explore these dim sum varieties:
- Steamed dumplings
- Pork buns
- Spring rolls
- Egg tarts
Jollof Rice – Nigeria
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that bursts with flavor and embodies the essence of West African cuisine, search no more than jollof rice.
This iconic Nigerian dish features popular ingredients like tomatoes and peppers, seasoned with vibrant Nigerian spices.
Each region boasts unique Jollof variations, often served at festive occasions, paired with grilled meats, and rooted in cherished family recipes.
Enjoy the cultural significance and delightful serving traditions!
Moussaka – Greece
While jollof rice showcases the vibrant flavors of West Africa, Moussaka brings the rich culinary traditions of Greece to your plate.
This classic layered dish features:
- Savory ground meat
- Tender eggplant moussaka
- Creamy béchamel sauce
- Flavorful spices
Indulge in this comforting dish and savor the Mediterranean flavors that reflect Greece’s culinary heritage and traditional recipes.
Cacio E Pepe – Italy
When you’re craving a taste of Italy, Cacio E Pepe delivers a simple yet exquisite experience that highlights the beauty of minimalism in cuisine.
With roots in Roman history, this dish combines just pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper.
While traditional recipes shine, you can explore delightful cacio e pepe variations, like adding truffle or crispy guanciale for a twist on this classic favorite.
Samosas – India
Samosas are a beloved street food in India, known for their crispy, golden-brown exterior and savory fillings that tantalize the taste buds.
You can’t miss trying them with:
- Spicy potato filling
- Tangy peas and spices
- Lentil mixture
- Minced meat variety
Each bite offers a burst of flavor, making samosas an irresistible treat this summer!
Ramen – Japan
If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of flavor this summer, ramen is a must-try dish from Japan that never disappoints.
Its rich history dates back to the late 19th century, evolving into countless ramen recipes. From silky noodles to flavorful broth, each bowl tells a story.
Pair it with toppings like soft-boiled eggs and green onions for an unforgettable experience.
Empanadas – Argentina
After savoring a bowl of ramen, your taste buds might crave something equally delightful yet entirely different.
Immerse yourself in Argentinian street food with empanadas, irresistible pastries filled with flavor. Here are four popular empanada variations you must try:
- Carne – beef with spices
- Pollo – chicken with herbs
- Queso – cheese with peppers
- Humita – corn and cheese blend
Enjoy the taste explosion!
Currywurst – Germany
When you think of German street food, nothing quite compares to the iconic currywurst.
Born in Berlin in 1949, this dish features juicy sausages topped with a spicy curry ketchup.
You’ll love the numerous currywurst variations, from mild to fiery hot, each offering a unique twist.
Grab one from a street vendor and savor this delicious piece of currywurst history!
Peking Duck – China
Peking duck is a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the senses and showcases the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine.
This dish features:
- Succulent meat infused with Peking flavors
- Crispy skin that crackles with each bite
- Thin pancakes for wrapping
- Sweet bean sauce for a perfect finish
Indulging in Peking duck is a delightful experience you won’t want to miss this summer!
Bangers and Mash – United Kingdom
Bangers and mash is a comforting classic that brings the heart of British cuisine to your summer table.
This dish features juicy sausages nestled atop creamy mashed potatoes, often smothered in rich onion gravy.
Rooted in traditional recipes, it embodies the essence of comfort food.
Enjoying bangers and mash connects you to the rich culinary history of the United Kingdom.
Mango Sticky Rice – Thailand
As the warmth of summer beckons, there’s nothing quite like the invigorating taste of mango sticky rice, a beloved dessert from Thailand.
You’ll love its creamy texture and sweet flavor. Here’s why you should try it:
- Rich in mango health benefits
- Easy sticky rice recipes
- Perfect revitalizing treat
- Combines sweet and savory
Don’t miss this delightful summer indulgence!
Final Thoughts
This summer, don’t just satisfy your taste buds—explore a world of flavors! From the zesty kick of Tacos Al Pastor to the delicate sweetness of Gelato, each dish tells a story of its culture. Whether you’re savoring the richness of Moussaka or the vibrant freshness of Sushi, every bite is a chance to journey beyond your kitchen. So grab your fork and indulge in these 25 must-try foods; your palate will thank you for the adventure!
