Frozen pizza is a quick, convenient, and delicious meal option. Whether you’re having a lazy night in, feeding a group of friends, or just need something easy for dinner, frozen pizza is always a reliable choice. But sometimes, it can feel a bit one-dimensional. To take your frozen pizza from basic to amazing, you can easily enhance the meal with some tasty sides, drinks, and even dessert. In this article, we’ll explore what to serve with frozen pizza to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Why Frozen Pizza?
Frozen pizza is a go-to for many reasons. It’s affordable, quick, and incredibly easy to prepare. With its ready-made crust, sauce, and toppings, it saves you time and effort. However, it might lack the variety and complexity of flavors that you might find in a fresh pizza from your favorite pizzeria. This is where the sides come in. Serving the right sides with your frozen pizza can elevate the meal, turning it into something truly special.
The best part is, these sides don’t need to be complicated. A little creativity and thought can transform your pizza night into a feast. Whether you’re pairing your pizza with salads, appetizers, or simple drinks, there are plenty of options to make your meal more exciting.
Fresh Salads
Salads are a perfect match for frozen pizza. They are light, fresh, and provide a nice contrast to the richness of pizza. Plus, they add some much-needed veggies to your meal.
Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad is always a good choice. The crispy romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, croutons, and grated parmesan cheese complement the flavors of pizza wonderfully. You can even add grilled chicken to give it a protein boost if you’re looking for a heartier side.
Greek Salad
A Greek salad is another excellent option. With a mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, it adds a nice, tangy flavor to balance out the savory pizza. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice, and you’re good to go.
Simple Mixed Green Salad
If you prefer something light and simple, a mixed green salad can be just as refreshing. Choose your favorite greens, such as spinach, arugula, or romaine, and add toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots. For extra flavor, try adding a vinaigrette or balsamic dressing.
Appetizers
Sometimes, you want to make your pizza meal feel more like a feast. A few appetizers can help build excitement and complement your pizza without stealing the spotlight.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side that goes hand-in-hand with pizza. The soft, buttery bread with a hint of garlic and herbs adds a lot of flavor. You can easily make it by spreading butter and garlic on slices of baguette or any bread you have at home, then baking it until golden brown.
Mozzarella Sticks
If you’re looking for a cheesy appetizer, mozzarella sticks are a great choice. These crispy, golden sticks of mozzarella cheese are addictive and pair perfectly with pizza. Dip them in marinara sauce for a classic combo.
Chicken Wings
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more substantial, chicken wings are an excellent option. You can bake or fry them and toss them in your favorite sauce, whether it’s buffalo, barbecue, or honey mustard. Wings offer a fun, flavorful addition to your pizza spread.
Antipasto Platter
For a more refined approach, consider an antipasto platter. Arrange a mix of cured meats (like salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni), cheeses (such as mozzarella and provolone), olives, pickles, and roasted vegetables. This platter can be a great way to offer a variety of flavors that will complement the pizza.
Drinks
The right drink can really enhance your pizza experience. Whether you prefer something alcoholic or non-alcoholic, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Soda
A classic choice to pair with pizza is soda. The sweetness and fizz of cola, root beer, or lemon-lime soda help cut through the richness of the cheese and sauce. This pairing is especially popular with kids and families.
Beer
Beer and pizza are a tried-and-true combo. The bitterness of beer complements the saltiness and richness of the pizza. If you like lighter beers, go for a pilsner or lager. If you prefer something a bit bolder, try an IPA or a darker stout. The variety of beer styles means there’s always a perfect beer to pair with your favorite pizza.
Wine
Wine is another fantastic pairing with pizza, especially if you’re serving something a bit more upscale. For red pizzas with tomato sauce, a medium-bodied red wine like a Merlot or Chianti works well. If you have a white pizza or a veggie pizza, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay can balance out the flavors.
Iced Tea or Lemonade
If you prefer a non-alcoholic option but still want something refreshing, try iced tea or lemonade. Both drinks are light, crisp, and sweet, offering a nice contrast to the heavy, cheesy pizza. You can even add a splash of mint or fruit to spice things up.
Sweets and Desserts
To round out your pizza meal, consider serving a sweet treat. Pizza and dessert go together surprisingly well, and there are many options that can complement the savory flavors of the pizza.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Who doesn’t love chocolate chip cookies? These cookies are easy to make and will satisfy any sweet tooth after enjoying pizza. You can make them fresh or buy pre-made dough to save time.
Tiramisu
If you’re aiming for something a bit more sophisticated, try tiramisu. This classic Italian dessert, made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese, pairs beautifully with pizza. It’s rich, creamy, and a perfect way to end an Italian-inspired meal.
Fruit Salad
For a lighter option, you can serve a fresh fruit salad. Choose a mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus for a refreshing and sweet end to your pizza night. You can also drizzle a little honey or sprinkle some mint for extra flavor.
Ice Cream
If you’re craving something cold and indulgent, ice cream is always a great choice. Whether you go with classic vanilla, rich chocolate, or a fruity sorbet, ice cream is a delightful way to finish your meal. You could also try pizza-inspired ice cream flavors like tiramisu or strawberry cheesecake for a fun twist.
Creative Pairing Ideas
If you want to get a bit more adventurous with your sides and drinks, consider some creative pairing ideas that can make your meal feel unique and exciting.
Pesto Dipping Sauce
Instead of your usual marinara, try a pesto dipping sauce. This herby, garlicky sauce made from basil, garlic, and pine nuts adds a fresh, flavorful twist to your pizza. It pairs especially well with white pizzas or pizzas topped with vegetables.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions, are a delicious and healthy side that complements the flavors of pizza. The caramelized edges add a nice depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the pizza’s cheesy and savory elements.
Pickled Veggies
If you love tangy flavors, pickled vegetables make a great side dish. You can serve pickled cucumbers, carrots, or even pickled onions. The sharp acidity of the pickles helps cut through the richness of the pizza and adds a burst of flavor.
Truffle Fries
For something a bit more luxurious, try serving truffle fries. The earthiness of the truffle oil pairs wonderfully with the cheesy, savory pizza. It’s an indulgent side dish that will make your pizza night feel like a special occasion.
Conclusion
Frozen pizza is a convenient and delicious meal, but when paired with the right sides, drinks, and desserts, it can become an even more satisfying and enjoyable experience. From fresh salads to indulgent desserts, there are plenty of options to elevate your pizza night. Whether you prefer something simple like garlic bread or something more creative like truffle fries, there’s a perfect side for every type of pizza. So, next time you pop a frozen pizza in the oven, take a little extra time to think about what you can serve with it to make your meal truly memorable.
Related topic:
- The Ultimate Guide to Pizza Cheese: Types, Uses, and Tips
- How Much Oil in Pizza Dough?
- What Cheese is Good for Pizza?
