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35 Affordable Mother’s Day Meals

By: Ksenia Prints · Updated: · This post may contain affiliate links.

Mother’s Day meals don’t have to be expensive to make Mom feel special. These 35 affordable recipes prove you can serve something thoughtful without stretching your budget. They’re full of flavor, simple to pull off, and made to bring everyone to the table. If you want a meal that feels like a real celebration, you’ll find it here.

Chicken skewers on skewers with lemon wedges.
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Nordic Fire-Grilled Salmon

Overhead view of fire-grilled salmon in white plate.
Nordic Fire-Grilled Salmon. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Nordic Fire-Grilled Salmon cooks up in about 20 minutes with salmon fillets, fresh dill, and lemon. It tastes smoky, buttery, and just a little bright from the herbs. Each bite is tender and full of simple, clean flavor. It's the kind of meal that makes an everyday dinner feel a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Nordic Fire-Grilled Salmon

Peach Salmon Skewers With Peach Jalapeno Crema

A plate of grilled salmon and vegetable skewers is placed on a bed of mixed greens. The skewers contain pieces of salmon, yellow bell pepper, and red onion. In the background, there is a tray with additional skewers and a white bowl.
Peach Salmon Skewers with Peach Jalapeno Crema. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Peach Salmon Skewers with Peach Jalapeno Crema come together in about 30 minutes with salmon, fresh peaches, and a spicy crema. They taste sweet, smoky, and just a little spicy. Every skewer gives a juicy, flavorful bite that feels fresh but filling. It's a fun twist that makes dinner feel anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Peach Salmon Skewers With Peach Jalapeno Crema

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

A white plate contains a vibrant salad with roasted butternut squash, wild rice, pomegranate seeds, and herbs, accompanied by a pair of serving spoons for classic Passover.
Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf simmers up in about 45 minutes with wild rice, butternut squash, and cranberries. It tastes nutty, sweet, and savory all at once. Every spoonful is hearty but bright from the squash and dried fruit. It’s a colorful side that feels satisfying enough to be the main event.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

1-Pot Pomegranate Chicken and Rice

Two white bowls filled with spiced rice and chicken topped with pomegranate seeds and pistachios on a marble surface. A bunch of fresh parsley and a small dish of pomegranate seeds are nearby. A spoon is in one of the bowls.
1-Pot Pomegranate Chicken and Rice. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

1-Pot Pomegranate Chicken and Rice cooks in about an hour with chicken thighs, rice, and pomegranate arils. It tastes savory, juicy, and a little tangy from the fruit. Each bite feels rich without being too heavy. It’s the kind of dish that keeps everyone going back for one more scoop.
Get the Recipe: 1-Pot Pomegranate Chicken and Rice

Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl

Middle eastern rice bowl close up.
Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl comes together in about 40 minutes with marinated tofu, seasoned rice, and fresh veggies. It tastes savory, spiced, and a little tangy. Every bowl feels fresh but still hearty enough to fill you up. It's a plant-based meal that’s anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl

Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers

A plate of stir-fried chicken with mixed vegetables garnished with almonds and fresh cilantro, accompanied by a fork and a yellow napkin.
Instant Pot Chicken Ghallaba. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Instant Pot Chicken with Sweet Peppers takes about 30 minutes using chicken breast, sweet peppers, and simple spices. It tastes savory, juicy, and a little sweet. Every bite feels light but satisfying. It's the kind of meal that's easy enough for a weeknight but still feels thoughtful.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers

Mujadara

White casserole dish with middle eastern mujadara.
Mujadara. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Mujadara simmers in about 45 minutes with lentils, rice, and caramelized onions. It tastes earthy, rich, and just a little sweet from the onions. Every spoonful feels comforting without being too heavy. It's a classic dish that feels humble but still worthy of a special dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara

Potato Vegetarian Vareniki

Potato Vegetarian Vareniki. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Potato Vegetarian Vareniki cook up in about an hour with mashed potatoes, flour dough, and butter. They taste hearty, buttery, and rich with every bite. Each dumpling is soft and full of savory filling. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes everyone sit back and relax.
Get the Recipe: Potato Vegetarian Vareniki

Matzo Lasagna with Cottage Cheese

A slice of baked lasagna is being lifted from a casserole dish. The lasagna layers are visible, with melted cheese, tomato sauce, and pasta. The dish is sprinkled with grated cheese. A leafy green plant is partially visible in the background.
Matzo Lasagna with Cottage Cheese. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

Matzo Lasagna with Cottage Cheese bakes in about an hour using matzo sheets, cottage cheese, and tomato sauce. It tastes rich, cheesy, and hearty without feeling too heavy. Each layer soaks up the sauce for a soft but flavorful bite. It’s a cozy dish perfect for holidays or any night in.
Get the Recipe: Matzo Lasagna with Cottage Cheese

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Risotto Recipe

A teriyaki salmon fillet topped with sliced green onions is placed on a plate, resting on a bed of creamy risotto mixed with peas and mushrooms. A gold fork and knife are positioned beside the salmon.
Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Risotto. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Risotto takes about 45 minutes with salmon fillets, arborio rice, and teriyaki sauce. It tastes savory, a little sweet, and perfectly creamy from the risotto. Every forkful balances rich fish with tender rice. It's the kind of dish that feels like a treat without the high price tag.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Risotto Recipe

Creamy Citrus Chicken With Rosemary

A roasted dish in a pan featuring various cuts of meat topped with citrus slices and rosemary sprigs. Surrounding the pan are halved grapefruits, lemons, and oranges on a blue surface.
Creamy Citrus Chicken with Rosemary. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Creamy Citrus Chicken with Rosemary simmers in about 45 minutes with chicken thighs, cream, and citrus zest. It tastes tangy, herbaceous, and rich without being too heavy. Each bite is tender and full of bright flavor. It's the kind of comforting dish that still feels fresh and lively.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Citrus Chicken With Rosemary

Chicken Marbella

Close up on ottolenghi chicken marbella on plate.
Chicken Marbella. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Chicken Marbella bakes up in about an hour using chicken thighs, olives, prunes, and a vinegar marinade. It tastes savory, tangy, and just a little sweet. Every bite is juicy and packed with flavor from the marinade. It's an old-school classic that still holds up beautifully today.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella

Spiced Grilled Corn

Close up of corn with spices and cilantro.
Spiced Grilled Corn. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Spiced Grilled Corn cooks up in about 15 minutes with corn on the cob, spices, and butter. It tastes smoky, sweet, and just a little spicy. Every bite has a good char and lots of seasoning. It’s an easy side that feels a lot more exciting than plain old corn.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Grilled Corn

Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel

Noodles and mushrooms in casserole dish.
Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel bakes in about an hour using egg noodles, mushrooms, and leeks. It tastes savory, creamy, and just a little earthy. Each forkful is soft, rich, and full of flavor. It's a simple, satisfying dish that feels comforting without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed red pepper on a plate with a fork.
Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers roast up in about an hour with ground turkey, rice, and sweet bell peppers. They taste savory, hearty, and a little sweet from the roasted peppers. Every bite gives you a full, balanced flavor without feeling too heavy. It’s an easy way to make dinner feel a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Pomegranate Chicken With Walnuts

A plate of grilled chicken garnished with fresh parsley and red pomegranate seeds. The chicken is served on a decorative floral-patterned plate with a fork on the side. The background is a marble surface.
Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts cooks up in about an hour with chicken thighs, pomegranate molasses, and walnuts. It tastes tangy, savory, and a little nutty. Each bite is juicy and layered with bold flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a treat without blowing the budget.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate Chicken With Walnuts

Black Bean Tacos With Sweet Pepper Salsa

Two black bean tacos on wooden board.
Black Bean Tacos With Sweet Pepper Salsa. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa take about 30 minutes to assemble using canned black beans, sweet peppers, and soft tortillas. They taste fresh, hearty, and a little sweet. Every taco is loaded with bright salsa and savory beans. It's a fast meal that still feels colorful and full of life.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Tacos With Sweet Pepper Salsa

Buckwheat Kasha With Camarelized Mushrooms And Onions

Three bowls of buckwheat kasha with mushrooms and greens.
Buckwheat Kasha With Camarelized Mushrooms And Onions. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Buckwheat Kasha with Caramelized Mushrooms and Onions cooks in about 40 minutes with buckwheat groats, mushrooms, and onions. It tastes nutty, earthy, and slightly sweet from the onions. Every bite is hearty and rich without being too heavy. It's a budget-friendly meal that still feels full of depth.
Get the Recipe: Buckwheat Kasha With Camarelized Mushrooms And Onions

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Side view of slice of moussaka.
Greek Vegetarian Moussaka. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka bakes in about 90 minutes with eggplant, potatoes, and a creamy béchamel topping. It tastes savory, rich, and a little tangy. Each layer is soft, comforting, and full of flavor. It's a hearty vegetarian main that satisfies like something much fancier.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich

A plate with a burrito and skewers on it.
Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwiches come together in about 40 minutes using ground turkey, warm spices, and soft pita bread. They taste savory, juicy, and full of spice. Every sandwich is packed with tender meat and fresh toppings. It's an easy way to make a homemade meal feel restaurant-worthy.
Get the Recipe: Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich

Roasted Salmon On A Bed Of Apples And Potatoes

Roasted Salmon On A Bed Of Apples And Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Roasted Salmon on a Bed of Apples and Potatoes bakes up in about 40 minutes with salmon fillets, tart apples, and tender potatoes. It tastes savory, slightly sweet, and buttery. Each bite balances richness from the salmon with fresh, crisp apples. It's a full meal that looks and tastes impressive without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Salmon On A Bed Of Apples And Potatoes

Chicken Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

Close-up of roasted meatballs with a mix of colorful, chopped bell peppers and zucchini slices.
Chicken Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe roasts in about 30 minutes with chicken sausage, broccoli, and sweet potatoes. It tastes savory, lightly sweet, and a little smoky. Every bite is simple but packed with hearty flavor. It’s the kind of no-fuss dinner that still feels satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

Homemade Gefilte Fish Recipe With Beet Chrein

Gefilte fish on plate with beet horseradish.
Homemade Gefilte Fish Recipe With Beet Chrein. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Homemade Gefilte Fish with Beet Chrein comes together in about 90 minutes using whitefish, eggs, and beets. It tastes tender, mildly sweet, and earthy from the beet topping. Every slice is soft but holds together beautifully. It’s a traditional dish that still feels fresh and meaningful today.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Gefilte Fish Recipe With Beet Chrein

Jeweled Vegetarian Rice Plov

Jeweled Vegetarian Rice Plov. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Jeweled Vegetarian Rice Plov cooks in about 45 minutes with basmati rice, carrots, and dried fruit. It tastes sweet, savory, and full of warming spices. Every spoonful pops with color and flavor. It's a festive dish that’s affordable but feels special enough for a big occasion.
Get the Recipe: Jeweled Vegetarian Rice Plov

Fried Marinated Tofu

A bowl of soup with a spoon in it.
Fried Marinated Tofu. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Fried Marinated Tofu crisps up in about 30 minutes using tofu, soy sauce, and a few pantry spices. It tastes savory, slightly crispy, and packed with umami. Every piece is golden outside and tender inside. It’s a simple plant-based meal that still feels satisfying and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fried Marinated Tofu

Classic White Fish In White Wine Sauce

A plate features two fillets of grilled white fish, seasoned with pepper and garnished with herbs. A gold fork is placed to the upper left of the fish. Two lemon wedges are on the plate's right side. The dish is served on a white plate with a light sauce.
Classic White Fish in White Wine Sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Classic White Fish in White Wine Sauce cooks in about 25 minutes with white fish fillets, dry white wine, and lemon. It tastes light, buttery, and just a little tangy. Each bite is tender and flaky without being too rich. It’s the kind of dish that makes a homemade dinner feel polished.
Get the Recipe: Classic White Fish In White Wine Sauce

Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Grilled chicken drumsticks on a plate with a slice of lime, inspired by Grandma's Secret Chicken Recipes.
Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks roast in about 45 minutes after a simple marinade with spices, garlic, and lime. They taste juicy, smoky, and just a little tangy. Every drumstick is packed with bold flavor. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that still fits a tight budget.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Baked Creamy Salmon

Salmon on baking sheet with potatoes.
Baked Creamy Salmon. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Baked Creamy Salmon bakes up in about 30 minutes with salmon fillets, cream, and a handful of fresh herbs. It tastes rich, savory, and buttery without feeling too heavy. Every forkful is soft and full of flavor. It’s an easy dish that feels like something you’d order out.
Get the Recipe: Baked Creamy Salmon

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken And Veggies

A roasted chicken on a tray surrounded by roasted vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and herbs. Two hands hold the tray at the edges. The chicken is golden-brown and crispy.
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies roasts in about 40 minutes with chicken thighs, bell peppers, and paprika seasoning. It tastes smoky, savory, and a little sweet from the roasted vegetables. Every bite feels hearty and filling without much effort. It’s the kind of dinner that wins the table every time.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken And Veggies

Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe

Kebabs on a plate with a lemon wedge.
Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs grill up in about 30 minutes with lentils, chickpeas, and warm spices. They taste savory, spiced, and just a little smoky from the grill. Every skewer is packed with flavor and hearty texture. It’s a meatless meal that still feels bold and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe

Grilled Scallops With Lemon, Mint, And Pinot Grigio Sauce

Grilled scallops with a lemon, mint, and Pinot Grigio sauce.
Grilled Scallops With Lemon, Mint, And Pinot Grigio Sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Grilled Scallops with Lemon, Mint, and Pinot Grigio Sauce cook up in about 20 minutes with fresh scallops, wine, and citrus. They taste light, buttery, and just a little tangy. Every bite is tender and packed with fresh flavor. It’s a quick way to feel like you’re eating something fancy without the cost.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Scallops With Lemon, Mint, And Pinot Grigio Sauce

Oyster and Maitake Mushroom Pasta

A bowl of multicolored fusilli pasta topped with cooked mushrooms and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs. The dish is served in a white bowl on a wooden surface.
Oyster and Maitake Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

Oyster and Maitake Mushroom Pasta cooks up in about 30 minutes with fresh mushrooms, pasta, and a light cream sauce. It tastes earthy, savory, and rich without feeling heavy. Every bite brings out the natural depth of the mushrooms. It’s a cozy pasta dish that feels just right for a special dinner.
Get the Recipe: Oyster and Maitake Mushroom Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta

Side view of baked feta pasta on a plate.
Baked Feta Pasta. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Baked Feta Pasta bakes in about 30 minutes using feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and pasta. It tastes creamy, tangy, and full of roasted tomato sweetness. Every forkful feels simple but rich. It's a trendy dish that actually lives up to the hype and feels like a little celebration.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

Pomegranate Glazed Whole Salmon

Pomegranate Glazed Whole Salmon. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

Pomegranate Glazed Whole Salmon roasts in about 40 minutes with a whole salmon fillet, pomegranate molasses, and lemon. It tastes tangy, sweet, and savory all at once. Every slice stays juicy and full of flavor. It’s a beautiful centerpiece that doesn’t require a fancy budget.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate Glazed Whole Salmon

Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

Grilled Grandma's Chicken skewers garnished with fresh herbs and served with a side of creamy sauce on a decorative blue plate.
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebabs cook in about 30 minutes with ground chicken, spices, and fresh herbs. They taste savory, juicy, and packed with spice. Every bite is tender with just the right amount of char. It's a simple, flavorful way to make any dinner feel more festive.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

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About Ksenia

Welcome to At The Immigrant's Table! I blend my immigrant roots with modern diets, crafting recipes that take you on a global kitchen adventure. As a food blogger and photographer, I'm dedicated to making international cuisine both healthy and accessible. Let's embark on a culinary journey that bridges cultures and introduces a world of flavors right into your home. Read more...

TOP 5 MIDDLE EASTERN RECIPES

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