Paradise on a Plate: Traditional Recipes from Iconic Island Escapes

When we dream of island vacations, we imagine golden sands, turquoise waters, and warm ocean breezes. But one of the most memorable parts of any island getaway is the food. Each island has its own rich culinary heritage — shaped by culture, climate, and centuries of tradition.

In this article, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey across some of the world’s most iconic islands. You’ll discover traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations — dishes that capture the true spirit of island life. Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply craving a taste of paradise, these recipes will bring a bit of the tropics to your kitchen.

1. Paella de Mariscos (Spain – Balearic Islands)

The Balearic Islands like Mallorca and Ibiza are known for their seafood-rich cuisine. One of the most beloved dishes is paella de mariscos, a colorful seafood paella made with shrimp, mussels, squid, and saffron-infused rice.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup short-grain rice
  • 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, squid rings)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups fish or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp saffron threads
  • Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan and sauté onions, garlic, and peppers until soft.
2. Add tomatoes and cook into a chunky sauce.
3. Stir in rice and toast lightly, then add saffron and broth.
4. Simmer for 18–20 minutes without stirring too much to form a crust (socarrat).
5. Add seafood during the last few minutes of cooking and serve hot.

This dish is best enjoyed outdoors with a glass of white wine and a sea breeze in your hair!

2. Laplap (Vanuatu)

In Vanuatu, a small island nation in the South Pacific, laplap is a traditional comfort food made from grated root vegetables and coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed underground.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups grated taro or yam
  • 1 cup grated coconut
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 1 egg (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Banana leaves for wrapping

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
2. Wrap portions in banana leaves and tie securely with string.
3. Cook in a pit oven (umu) or steam for about 1 hour until firm and fragrant.
4. Unwrap carefully and enjoy warm with grilled fish or stew.

Laplap represents the deep connection between the people of Vanuatu and their land. It’s often served during festivals and family gatherings.

3. Ceviche (Peru – Galápagos Islands)

While the Galápagos Islands are famous for wildlife, Peruvian cuisine is a highlight for travelers. Ceviche is a refreshing dish where fresh fish is “cooked” in citrus juice and spiced with chili and herbs.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb fresh white fish (like snapper or tilapia), cubed
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 chili, chopped
  • 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: corn, sweet potato, avocado

1. Marinate fish in lime juice for at least 20 minutes until opaque.
2. Add onions, chili, and cilantro, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Serve chilled with corn and sweet potato slices on the side.

This light and zesty dish is perfect for a hot day and pairs beautifully with a cold beer or tropical fruit smoothie.

4. Coconut Chicken (Tahiti – French Polynesia)

Tahitian cuisine is built around fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and creamy coconut sauces. One favorite is coconut chicken, a tender dish cooked in a rich coconut base.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 2 cups coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

1. Sauté onions and garlic until soft, then add chicken and brown slightly.
2. Pour in coconut milk and simmer gently until chicken is fully cooked.
3. Season with soy sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper before serving.
4. Enjoy with steamed rice and a green salad for a full island meal.

This dish brings together sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite — just like a beachside sunset.

Read Also: From Freezer to Feast: Mastering Classic Dishes from Icy Lands

5. Rice & Peas (Jamaica)

No Jamaican meal is complete without rice and peas. This hearty side dish features pigeon peas or kidney beans cooked with coconut milk, thyme, and spices.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup rice
  • 1 can pigeon peas or kidney beans
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

1. Sauté onions, garlic, and pepper if using, then add peas and coconut milk.
2. Add rice and stir well, then simmer until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
3. Remove thyme and adjust seasoning before serving.

Rice and peas go perfectly with jerk chicken, grilled fish, or fried plantains — making it a staple at home-cooked meals and island parties alike.

6. Maldivian Fish Curry (Maldives)

The Maldives is known for its stunning coral reefs and clear blue waters — and its cuisine reflects the abundance of the sea. Fish curry is a daily staple made with coconut milk, chili, and local spices.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 fish fillets (tuna or snapper)
  • 1 cup grated coconut or coconut milk
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 green chili
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • Coconut oil or vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste

1. Sauté onions, garlic, and chili until golden.
2. Add curry powder, tomato paste, and grated coconut or coconut milk.
3. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, then gently cook the fish until flaky.
4. Serve with steamed rice or flatbread for a comforting meal.

7. Dessert: Taro Pudding (Hawaii)

Hawaii’s love for taro extends beyond poi. Taro pudding is a creamy dessert made with mashed taro, coconut milk, and sugar — a sweet ending to any island feast.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups cooked and mashed taro
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
2. Pour into small bowls or molds and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
3. Serve chilled, optionally topped with fresh fruit or toasted coconut.

This silky dessert is both simple and deeply satisfying — just like a quiet afternoon on the beach.

Bringing the Islands Home

You don’t need to fly to an exotic location to enjoy the tastes of the tropics. With a few pantry staples like coconut milk, fresh herbs, and bold spices, you can recreate these island dishes in your own kitchen.

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of island-style cooking:

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible — especially seafood, herbs, and vegetables.
• Experiment with spices — many island cuisines use spice blends that create depth and warmth.
• Don’t forget the heat — chilies, peppers, and hot sauces are common across many island cultures.
• Grill or roast meats — open-fire cooking adds a distinct flavor found in many traditional recipes.

Try hosting an “island night” where you prepare a few different dishes from various regions and invite friends or family to enjoy a global feast together.

Food as Culture

Each island recipe tells a story — of migration, trade, colonization, and community. Whether it’s the Greek influence on Turkish islands or the Indian roots in Caribbean curries, food is a living record of our shared history.

By cooking these island dishes, you’re not just enjoying a meal — you’re experiencing a piece of culture, tradition, and love passed down through generations.

Read Also: Cold Country, Hot Plates: Foolproof Recipes to Keep You Toasty

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are these island recipes suitable for beginners?

A: Yes! Most of these recipes use basic ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, making them perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.

Q2: Can I substitute any ingredients if they’re hard to find?

A: Absolutely! For example, if you can’t find green papaya, use unripe mango. If jerk seasoning isn’t available, make your own blend with chili, thyme, and allspice.

Q3: Which of these dishes are vegetarian-friendly?

A: Roti, papaya salad, and bobotie (if made without meat) are great vegetarian options. Just ensure you use vegetable broth or skip animal-based ingredients.

Q4: How long do these recipes take to prepare?

A: Most dishes can be made within 30–60 minutes. Slow-cooked dishes like ropa vieja may take longer but are worth the wait for deep flavor.

Q5: What are common tropical ingredients I should keep in my pantry?

A: Coconut milk, lemongrass, fish sauce, curry powder, and fresh herbs like cilantro and thyme are staples in many island cuisines.