When it comes to pairing side dishes with pizza, the right choices can enhance your dining experience. Exploring a variety of sides can make your pizza night more exciting and delicious.
Choosing the perfect side dish brings out the best in your pizza meal. Whether you prefer something light like a salad or more filling options like soups and appetizers, the sides you pick can complement the flavors of your favorite pizza.
1) Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic and easy side dish that pairs perfectly with pizza.
To make garlic bread, start with a loaf of Italian or French bread. Slice it in half horizontally.
Mix melted butter with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also add oregano for extra flavor.
Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the bread halves. Place them on a baking sheet.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and crispy.
For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking.
Serve your garlic bread warm, and enjoy the perfect combination of crunchy and flavorful. It’s a simple yet delicious addition to your pizza night.
2) Caesar Salad
Caesar Salad is a great side dish for pizza. Its crisp lettuce, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of pizza.
The Caesar Salad contains Romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and croutons. These ingredients give the salad its distinct texture and flavor, making it a perfect complement to any pizza.
You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon to your Caesar Salad. These additions make the salad heartier and more satisfying. Whether you choose to keep it simple or add extras, Caesar Salad always pairs well with pizza.
The creamy Caesar dressing is made with garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, anchovies, and Parmesan cheese. This flavorful dressing ties all the elements together and enhances your pizza meal.
3) Mozzarella Sticks
Mozzarella sticks are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with pizza. They are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, providing a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of pizza.
You can serve them with marinara sauce for dipping, which complements the cheesy goodness.
These sticks are easy to make. Simply coat mozzarella cheese in breadcrumbs, then fry or bake them until golden brown. You can also add spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Mozzarella sticks are popular at parties and gatherings. They are easy to eat and always a hit with both kids and adults. Enjoy them hot for the best taste and texture.
For a different twist, try serving mozzarella sticks with pesto or ranch dressing. These dips add unique flavors that might surprise your guests.
If you’re looking for a way to make your meal more filling, mozzarella sticks are a great choice. Their rich taste and crispy texture make them a satisfying addition to your pizza feast.
4) Bruschetta
Bruschetta is an Italian appetizer traditionally made with toasted bread, garlic, olive oil, salt, and fresh tomatoes. It offers a light, crunchy contrast to pizza’s rich, cheesy goodness.
Bruschetta can be prepared in various ways. You can top it with fresh tomato and basil, or mix them with mozzarella for extra flavor.
Adding balsamic glaze as a finishing touch enhances the tanginess. For a twist, try ingredients like avocado with lemon juice or goat cheese with herbs.
Bruschetta is simple to make but packed with flavor. It’s a perfect match with pizza because of its fresh and vibrant taste.
5) Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad is a simple yet delicious choice to pair with pizza. It’s made from fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. This salad offers a refreshing taste that complements the richness of pizza.
Start by slicing ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into round pieces. Arrange them on a plate, alternating between tomato and mozzarella slices.
Next, add fresh basil leaves into the mix. For more flavor, drizzle some olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
You can make a quick balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens. Pour this glaze over your salad just before serving.
This salad is best when served immediately to ensure the freshest taste. Keep it in the fridge for a short time if you need to prepare it ahead.
A Caprese salad adds a fresh and vibrant element to your pizza night, balancing out the meal with its simple yet tasty ingredients.
6) Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables make a delicious and healthy side dish for pizza. You can use vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, and zucchini.
Start by chopping your vegetables into even-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, add some garlic powder or thyme.
Spread the veggies on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven at 425ºF for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden and tender.
Roasted vegetables add a nice contrast to the cheesy and savory flavors of pizza. Plus, they are a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients.
Enjoy the roasted vegetables alongside your pizza for a tasty and balanced meal.
7) Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a tasty and easy-to-make side dish that pairs well with pizza. They bring a nice balance of flavors and are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
To start, clean and remove the stems from your mushrooms. Baby bella or white button mushrooms work great for this recipe.
Prepare a filling using cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a few herbs such as oregano and basil. You can customize the filling by adding chopped mushroom stems, garlic, and some pizza sauce.
Spoon the filling into each mushroom cap. Make sure not to overfill, as it can spill out during baking.
Place the filled mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F until they are golden and the cheese is melted. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
These stuffed mushrooms add a delicious, cheesy bite that complements any pizza night. You can also add toppings like chopped olives or pepperoni to make them even more exciting.
8) Antipasto Platter
An antipasto platter is a fantastic side dish for pizza. It offers a variety of flavors that can complement the pizza nicely. The ingredients you use can be mixed and matched to suit your preferences.
Typically, an antipasto platter includes cured meats like salami and prosciutto. These meats add a savory and rich taste.
Cheeses are another essential part of the platter. You can choose from options like mozzarella, provolone, or sharp cheddar. Adding different types of cheese brings in more textures and flavors.
Don’t forget marinated vegetables such as artichokes, olives, and roasted red peppers. These add a tangy and fresh element to the platter.
You might also include some pickled items. Pickles, marinated mushrooms, and even pickled onions work well here. They offer a contrast to the richness of the meats and cheeses.
To round out the platter, add some crusty bread or crackers. These are perfect for pairing with the spreads and toppings.
A drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh herbs can elevate the entire platter. It’s a simple yet effective side dish that pairs perfectly with a slice of your favorite pizza.
9) Greek Salad
Greek Salad is a refreshing and healthy side dish for pizza. It features a mix of crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onions, green bell peppers, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. All these ingredients are tossed in a light dressing made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano.
This salad pairs well with pizza because it adds a fresh and tangy flavor that balances the rich and savory taste of pizza. The crunch of the vegetables contrasts nicely with the chewy crust of the pizza.
You can customize Greek Salad by adding ingredients like pepperoncini, capers, or fresh herbs. It’s also easy to prepare and can be assembled quickly, making it a convenient choice for busy pizza nights.
Serve your Greek Salad chilled for the best flavor and texture. Ensure all your vegetables are fresh and ripe to get the most vibrant taste. This side dish not only complements pizza but also adds a boost of nutrients to your meal.
10) Cheesy Breadsticks
Cheesy breadsticks are a fantastic side dish for pizza. They are easy to make and pair perfectly with your meal. You only need a few simple ingredients.
Start with pizza dough as the base. Roll it out to fit your baking sheet or pizza pan.
Brush melted butter over the dough, and sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning. These add a delicious flavor.
Next, cover the dough with a generous amount of shredded cheese. Mozzarella and parmesan work great together. For extra browning, you can switch your oven to broil for the last minute of baking.
Bake the breadsticks until the edges are golden brown. This usually takes about 12-15 minutes.
After baking, let the breadsticks cool slightly before cutting them into strips. You can serve them plain or with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cheesy breadsticks can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to keep them crispy. Enjoy this simple and tasty side dish with your pizza!
11) Spinach Artichoke Dip
Spinach Artichoke Dip makes an excellent side dish for pizza. It’s creamy, flavorful, and pairs well with the savory taste of pizza. The dip combines spinach, artichokes, and a blend of cheeses that create a rich and satisfying flavor.
To make this dip, you can use ingredients such as cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. These give the dip its creamy texture. Adding mozzarella and Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor and make it even more delicious.
You can also use garlic and onion powder for seasoning. This adds a little extra kick to the dip. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
The dip is easy to prepare. Simply mix the ingredients in a bowl and bake. It’s great to serve warm, right out of the oven, with some bread or crackers.
Spinach Artichoke Dip is not only tasty, but it’s also a great way to add some veggies to your meal. The spinach and artichokes add a nutritious element to the dip.
Perfect for any pizza night, this dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
12) Fried Zucchini
Fried zucchini is a great side dish for pizza nights. It’s crispy, tasty, and simple to make. The crunch of fried zucchini adds a nice contrast to the softness of pizza.
You can make this dish by slicing zucchini into rounds. Coat the slices with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Then, fry them in hot oil until golden brown.
Serve immediately with a sprinkle of salt. You can also dip them in marinara sauce or ranch dressing for extra flavor. Fried zucchini is a delicious way to get some veggies on your plate while enjoying pizza.
13) Crispy Calamari
Crispy calamari can be a delightful side dish to serve with pizza. The tender, golden-brown rings provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
You can serve it with a tangy marinara sauce or a simple garlic aioli. This adds a flavorful dip that complements the pizza well.
To prepare crispy calamari, coat the calamari rings in seasoned flour, then fry them until golden and crisp. Serve them hot for the best experience.
Adding a squeeze of lemon can give the calamari a fresh, zesty flavor. Pairing it with a side of pickled onions or a light salad can help balance the meal.
Crispy calamari is a versatile side that works well with many types of pizza, from classic margherita to pepperoni.
14) Baked Potato Wedges
Baked potato wedges are a delicious and easy side dish for pizza. They require simple ingredients and minimal preparation. You start by cutting potatoes into wedges. Soaking the wedges in water helps to remove excess starch, making them crispier when baked.
Once soaked, pat the wedges dry with a towel. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the wedges are spread out in a single layer to ensure even baking.
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the wedges for about 30-35 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure both sides get crispy. They should be golden brown and crunchy on the outside while staying soft on the inside.
Potato wedges are a great addition to your pizza night. They add a satisfying crunch and pair well with a variety of dips like ketchup, ranch, or garlic aioli. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to match your taste preferences.
15) Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is a great side dish for pizza. It’s a simple way to add a bit of variety and freshness to your meal.
You can make it with different types of pasta, like rotini or bow ties. Add chopped veggies, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
Mix in some olives and cheese cubes for extra flavor. A light vinaigrette or Italian dressing ties it all together.
Chill the pasta salad for a few hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
You can customize the ingredients to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Pasta salad complements the rich, cheesy slices of pizza well.
16) Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a great side dish for pizza because it adds a fresh and crunchy element to your meal.
You can make coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a dressing. The dressing can be mayo-based or vinegar-based, depending on your taste.
You can also add extras like shredded apple, raisins, or a sprinkle of celery seeds to give it a unique twist.
Coleslaw is quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Just keep it chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Enjoy your pizza with a side of coleslaw for a balance of flavors and textures.
17) Garlic Knots
Garlic knots are a classic pizza side dish that packs a punch of flavor. Made from pizza dough, these knots are brushed with a mix of melted butter, garlic, and herbs. They are quick to make and perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
You start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Roll out your pizza dough and cut it into strips. Each strip is then tied into a simple knot.
Place the knots on a baking sheet and brush them with melted butter mixed with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Bake for about 12 minutes or until the knots are golden brown.
Once out of the oven, you can add another layer of garlic butter on top. This gives them extra richness and an irresistible aroma. Serve them warm for the best experience.
Garlic knots are also great because you can prepare them ahead of time. Just bake them partially, and finish them off when you’re ready to serve. This makes them a convenient choice for busy pizza nights.
18) Broccoli Rabe
Broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, is a great side dish for pizza. It has a slightly bitter taste that goes well with the flavors of pizza.
To prepare, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.
Add the broccoli rabe. Cook, stirring often, until tender. Season with a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh taste. Serve warm alongside your favorite pizza.
Broccoli rabe’s unique taste adds variety to your meal. It’s a healthy choice, rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
It pairs well with many pizza toppings, especially sausage or white pizza. Enjoy the balance it brings to your pizza night.
19) Buffalo Wings
Buffalo wings make an excellent side dish for pizza. They are flavorful and spicy, providing a great contrast to the cheese and tomato flavors of pizza.
The classic buffalo wing is coated in a hot sauce made from cayenne pepper, vinegar, and melted butter. This gives the wings their distinct tangy and spicy kick.
Buffalo wings are often served with celery sticks and a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing. These cool, creamy dips balance the heat of the wings and add extra flavor.
You can choose between bone-in wings or boneless wings, depending on your preference. Both options offer juicy, tender meat with a crispy exterior.
To prepare buffalo wings at home, you can bake, grill, or fry them to achieve the perfect texture. After cooking, toss them in your favorite buffalo wing sauce to coat evenly.
Buffalo wings are a versatile and popular addition to any pizza meal. Their bold flavors and satisfying crunch make them a crowd-pleaser.
20) Ratatouille
Ratatouille makes a colorful and flavorful side dish for pizza. This dish is packed with vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The mix of textures and flavors pairs wonderfully with the cheesy and savory notes of pizza.
You can serve ratatouille warm or cold, depending on your preference. The bright, tangy vegetables offer a fresh balance to the pizza’s richness. The herbs and garlic in the ratatouille add depth to the meal.
Making ratatouille is simple and can be done in advance. Once you cook the vegetables until tender and aromatic, it can be stored and reheated when needed.
Adding ratatouille to your pizza night will not only bring more variety but also a healthy, vegetable-packed option that everyone can enjoy.
21) Panzanella
Panzanella is a classic Italian salad that pairs wonderfully as a side dish for pizza.
It consists mainly of chunks of stale bread tossed with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and basil. The bread soaks up the dressing made of olive oil and vinegar while staying slightly crunchy.
To make it, start by cutting the bread into cubes. Toast them lightly in the oven until they’re golden brown. This adds a nice crunch.
Mix the bread cubes with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Add fresh basil leaves.
For the dressing, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour it over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Panzanella is a fresh, flavorful side that brings a taste of Italy to your pizza night. It’s easy to make and highlights summer produce beautifully.
Historical Origins of Pizza and Side Dishes
Pizza has a rich history that spans various cultures and centuries. Traditional pizza side dishes have evolved over time, especially those from its birthplace, Italy.
Pizza’s Journey Through Cultures
Pizza’s origins trace back to ancient civilizations that made flatbreads with toppings. Early versions include flatbreads from Greece and Egypt. The precursor to modern pizza was the Roman focaccia.
In the 18th century, pizza evolved in Naples, Italy. The Neapolitan pizza was simple with flatbread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. This became popular among the locals and set the stage for the global pizza we know today.
Traditional Side Dishes From Italy
Classic Italian side dishes often accompany pizza. Italian Bruschetta—grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with tomatoes—is a common favorite. Caesar Salad, with its crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing, complements pizza well.
Garlic Parmesan Green Beans are another go-to. They are lightly seasoned and pair wonderfully with any pizza. Lastly, Roasted Broccoli brings a healthy balance to your meal with its crunchy texture and savory taste.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
When serving pizza, it’s important to balance the flavors and textures of the side dishes. This enhances the dining experience by providing contrasting and complementary tastes.
Complementing Pizza Toppings
Consider the toppings on your pizza when choosing side dishes. If your pizza is loaded with rich, savory ingredients like sausage and pepperoni, opt for lighter sides. Fresh salads with crisp vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and lettuce can balance the heaviness. Fruit such as grapes or orange wedges provides a sweet contrast to the savory toppings.
For a veggie pizza topped with items like mushrooms and bell peppers, pair it with garlic knots or a Caesar salad. Both add a little substance without overshadowing the main dish. A simple mix of antipasto can also enhance the flavors without being too filling.
Achieving the Perfect Flavor Profile
To achieve the perfect flavor profile, consider the individual tastes of each side dish. Combining sweet, salty, and acidic elements can create a well-rounded meal. For instance, a fruit salad with citrus can bring acidity, while cheese-filled garlic bread adds a savory touch.
Don’t forget about herbs and spices. A dash of red wine vinegar in salads or fresh basil on bruschetta can elevate the sense of taste. Aim for a mix of textures too. Crunchy items like fresh vegetables or bruschetta can contrast nicely with the chewy, cheesy pizza.
By thoughtfully pairing sides that complement and contrast with your pizza, you can create a fulfilling and enjoyable meal.
Nutritional Considerations
When choosing side dishes for pizza, it’s essential to consider both health and taste. Opting for healthy sides can balance out the indulgence of pizza and provide essential nutrients your meal might be missing.
Healthy Side Dish Options
Choosing healthy sides can make your pizza meal more nutritious. Vegetable-based dishes are great choices. For example, roasted vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts can add vitamins and fiber. Salads with ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and leafy greens are also excellent because they provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Including legumes such as beans can boost your intake of protein and complex carbohydrates.
Soups like minestrone are another healthy option. Minestrone typically contains plenty of vegetables, beans, and sometimes pasta, offering a balanced mix of nutrients. You can also consider small portions of whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to add fiber and other essential nutrients to your meal.
Understanding Macronutrients in Side Dishes
Macronutrients—proteins, carbohydrates, and fats—are crucial to consider when balancing your meal. Protein-rich sides like bean salads or grilled chicken can complement the often low protein content in pizza. Vegetable sides generally provide fewer calories but are rich in fiber and essential vitamins, which can help you feel full and satisfied.
Fats in side dishes should be healthy fats, such as those found in olive oil, nuts, and avocados. These fats are beneficial for your heart and can help improve the nutritional value of your meal. Carbohydrates from vegetables or whole grains provide energy without the sugar spikes caused by simpler carbs.
By choosing well-rounded side dishes, you can create a balanced, nutritious meal that complements the beloved flavors of pizza without compromising on health.
