When you’re planning a dinner that centers around pizza, choosing the right side dishes can elevate the meal from simple to spectacular. Pizza is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, enhancing the flavors and providing a well-rounded dining experience. The key is to balance the rich, cheesy, and often greasy nature of pizza with sides that offer contrasting textures and flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.
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1. Salads
Salads are a classic accompaniment to pizza, providing a fresh and crunchy contrast to the soft, cheesy pizza. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can cleanse the palate and add a refreshing element to the meal. Ingredients like mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions work well. You might also consider a Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese, tossed in a tangy Caesar dressing.
For a more substantial option, try a chopped salad with a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, and radishes, along with chickpeas or beans for added protein. A Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-oregano dressing is another excellent choice that complements pizza beautifully.
2. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a popular side that pairs perfectly with pizza. The buttery, garlicky bread provides a delightful contrast to the cheesy pizza. You can make garlic bread by spreading a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on slices of baguette or Italian bread, then toasting them in the oven until golden brown.
For a twist, you can make cheesy garlic bread by adding a layer of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top before toasting. The melted cheese adds an extra layer of flavor and richness that complements the pizza well.
3. Soup
A bowl of soup can be a comforting and satisfying side dish for pizza. Tomato soup is a classic pairing, with its rich, tangy flavor complementing the pizza’s savory ingredients. Minestrone, a hearty Italian vegetable soup with beans and pasta, is another excellent choice that provides a variety of textures and flavors.
For a lighter option, consider a vegetable or chicken noodle soup. The broth-based soup helps balance the richness of the pizza while adding warmth and comfort to the meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with pizza. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and adds a delightful caramelized flavor. Popular choices include bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until tender and slightly charred.
You can also add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor. Roasted vegetables provide a nutritious contrast to the pizza and help balance the meal.
5. Antipasto Platter
An antipasto platter is a great way to add variety to your pizza dinner. This Italian appetizer typically includes a selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, marinated vegetables, and breadsticks. You can customize the platter to suit your preferences and include items like salami, prosciutto, mozzarella, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and capers.
The antipasto platter offers a range of flavors and textures that complement the pizza and provide a satisfying start to the meal. It’s also a great option for entertaining, as guests can nibble on the various components while enjoying their pizza.
6. Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is a hearty and flavorful side dish that pairs well with pizza. You can make a simple pasta salad with cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, tossed in a light vinaigrette. For a more substantial option, add ingredients like grilled chicken, pepperoni, or salami.
A Mediterranean pasta salad with ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese is another great choice. The bright, tangy flavors of the pasta salad complement the rich, savory pizza.
7. Fruit Salad
A fruit salad is a refreshing and light side dish that provides a sweet contrast to the savory pizza. You can make a simple fruit salad with a variety of fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, and kiwi. Adding a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of lemon juice enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit.
For a more elaborate option, consider a mixed berry salad with mint and a splash of balsamic vinegar. The tartness of the berries and the fresh mint create a delightful contrast to the pizza.
8. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with pizza. The smoky, charred flavor of the vegetables complements the pizza’s rich, cheesy goodness. Popular choices for grilling include zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and asparagus. Simply brush the vegetables with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until tender and slightly charred.
You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor. Grilled vegetables provide a nutritious and flavorful contrast to the pizza, making them a great addition to the meal.
9. Mozzarella Sticks
Mozzarella sticks are a popular appetizer that pairs well with pizza. The crispy, gooey cheese sticks are a fun and indulgent side dish that complements the pizza’s cheesy goodness. You can make mozzarella sticks by coating sticks of mozzarella cheese in breadcrumbs and frying them until golden brown.
Serve the mozzarella sticks with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The combination of crispy, melty cheese and tangy marinara sauce makes them a perfect accompaniment to pizza.
10. Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a simple and elegant side dish that pairs well with pizza. The classic Italian salad features fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The bright, fresh flavors of the Caprese salad complement the rich, savory pizza.
You can make a traditional Caprese salad with slices of ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, or try a more modern version with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Adding a sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the flavors and makes the salad even more delicious.
11. Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a tasty and satisfying side dish that pairs well with pizza. The mushrooms are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and sometimes sausage or bacon, then baked until golden brown. The result is a flavorful and indulgent side dish that complements the pizza.
You can make stuffed mushrooms with a variety of fillings, such as garlic and herb cream cheese, spinach and ricotta, or sausage and Parmesan. The possibilities are endless, and the stuffed mushrooms add a gourmet touch to the meal.
12. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a crunchy and refreshing side dish that pairs well with pizza. The crisp cabbage and tangy dressing provide a nice contrast to the rich, cheesy pizza. You can make a classic coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a mayonnaise-based dressing, or try a lighter version with a vinegar-based dressing.
Adding ingredients like apples, cranberries, or nuts can give the coleslaw an extra burst of flavor and texture. Coleslaw is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient side dish for pizza night.
13. Potato Wedges
Potato wedges are a hearty and satisfying side dish that pairs well with pizza. The crispy, seasoned potatoes provide a delightful contrast to the pizza’s soft, cheesy goodness. You can make potato wedges by cutting potatoes into wedges, tossing them with olive oil and seasonings, and baking them until golden brown.
Seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, and rosemary add extra flavor to the potato wedges. Serving them with a side of sour cream or ketchup makes them even more delicious.
14. Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a simple and flavorful Italian appetizer that pairs well with pizza. The toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provides a fresh and crunchy contrast to the pizza. You can make traditional tomato bruschetta with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil, or try variations with ingredients like roasted red peppers, olives, or cheese.
Bruschetta is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient and delicious side dish for pizza night. The fresh, vibrant flavors of the bruschetta enhance the overall dining experience.
15. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Spinach and artichoke dip is a creamy and indulgent side dish that pairs well with pizza. The rich, cheesy dip made with spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, and Parmesan provides a delightful contrast to the pizza. You can serve the dip with breadsticks, crackers, or tortilla chips for dipping.
The combination of creamy, cheesy dip and crispy dippers makes it a perfect accompaniment to pizza. Spinach and artichoke dip is a crowd-pleaser and a great addition to any pizza dinner.
Conclusion
When planning a pizza dinner, choosing the right side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience and provide a well-rounded meal. From fresh salads and garlic bread to roasted vegetables and antipasto platters, there are plenty of options to consider. Each side dish offers a unique flavor and texture that complements the pizza, making the meal more enjoyable and satisfying.
Whether you prefer light and refreshing sides or indulgent and hearty options, there is something for everyone. The key is to balance the rich, cheesy nature of the pizza with sides that offer contrasting flavors and textures. By selecting a variety of side dishes, you can create a memorable and delicious pizza dinner that will delight your guests.
FAQs
What are some healthy sides to serve with pizza?
Some healthy sides to serve with pizza include green salads, roasted vegetables, and fruit salads. These options provide fresh flavors and a variety of nutrients that balance the richness of the pizza.
Can I serve soup with pizza?
Yes, soup is a great side dish to serve with pizza. Tomato soup, minestrone, and vegetable soup are all excellent choices that complement the pizza and add warmth to the meal.
What are some indulgent sides to serve with pizza?
Indulgent sides to serve with pizza include garlic bread, mozzarella sticks, and spinach and artichoke dip. These options are rich and flavorful, providing a satisfying contrast to the pizza.