Pizza is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of foods to enhance its flavor and create a balanced meal. Whether you prefer classic combinations or want to experiment with new pairings, there are many options to consider. To answer the question of what to eat pizza with, let’s explore the best accompaniments, drinks, and side dishes that complement this beloved dish.
Salads
One of the most popular sides to serve with pizza is a fresh, crisp salad. The lightness of the salad balances the richness of the pizza, providing a refreshing contrast. Here are some great salad options:
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing pairs wonderfully with pizza. The creamy dressing complements the cheese on the pizza, while the crunch of the croutons adds texture.
Greek Salad: A Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onions, feta cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect match for pizza. The bold flavors and fresh ingredients enhance the pizza experience.
Caprese Salad: Made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and balsamic glaze, a Caprese salad echoes the flavors of a Margherita pizza and provides a light, refreshing side.
Arugula Salad: An arugula salad with shaved Parmesan, lemon juice, and olive oil offers a peppery bite that cuts through the richness of the pizza, making it a great accompaniment.
Spinach Salad: A spinach salad with strawberries, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds a sweet and tangy element to your pizza meal.
Appetizers
Starting your meal with appetizers can set the stage for an enjoyable pizza experience. Here are some appetizers that pair well with pizza:
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a favorite side for pizza. The garlicky flavor complements the pizza’s toppings, and the bread can be used to scoop up any extra sauce.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil is a delightful appetizer that pairs well with pizza. The freshness of the tomatoes and herbs adds a burst of flavor.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Mushrooms stuffed with cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs make a tasty and savory starter that complements the pizza’s flavors.
Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables provides a variety of flavors and textures that enhance the pizza experience.
Caprese Skewers: Skewers with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a fun and easy-to-eat appetizer.
Soups
Soup can be a comforting and delicious addition to a pizza meal. Here are some soups that pair well with pizza:
Tomato Soup: A classic tomato soup with a hint of basil is a natural companion to pizza. The tomato flavors tie in with the pizza sauce, creating a harmonious pairing.
Minestrone Soup: A hearty minestrone soup with vegetables, beans, and pasta offers a filling and nutritious complement to pizza.
Italian Wedding Soup: Made with meatballs, spinach, and small pasta, Italian wedding soup is a flavorful and satisfying option to serve alongside pizza.
Roasted Red Pepper Soup: A creamy roasted red pepper soup adds a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs well with pizza.
Butternut Squash Soup: A rich and creamy butternut squash soup provides a comforting and slightly sweet contrast to the savory flavors of pizza.
Vegetables
Including vegetables with your pizza meal adds nutritional value and variety. Here are some vegetable dishes that pair well with pizza:
Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and asparagus make a healthy and flavorful side dish. The smoky char from the grill enhances the overall meal.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese provide a tasty and nutritious addition to your pizza meal.
Caprese Skewers: Skewers with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a fun and easy-to-eat vegetable option.
Roasted Red Pepper Soup: A creamy roasted red pepper soup adds a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs well with pizza.
Butternut Squash Soup: A rich and creamy butternut squash soup provides a comforting and slightly sweet contrast to the savory flavors of pizza.
See Also: What is Veggie Pizza at Little Caesars: A Complete Overview
Dips
Dips can add an extra layer of flavor to your pizza experience. Here are some dips that pair well with pizza:
Marinara Sauce: A side of warm marinara sauce is perfect for dipping your pizza crust. It adds extra tomato flavor and moisture.
Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dressing is a popular dip for pizza, especially with crusts and vegetable toppings.
Garlic Butter: Melted garlic butter is a delicious dip for pizza crusts, adding richness and flavor.
Pesto: Fresh basil pesto makes a vibrant and flavorful dip that pairs well with pizza.
Blue Cheese Dressing: A tangy blue cheese dressing provides a bold contrast to the flavors of the pizza.
Drinks
Choosing the right beverage to accompany your pizza can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some drink options that pair well with pizza:
Wine: A glass of wine can elevate your pizza meal. Red wines like Chianti, Barbera, and Sangiovese pair well with meat-topped pizzas, while white wines like Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc complement vegetable or seafood pizzas.
Beer: Beer is a classic pizza companion. Light lagers, pale ales, and IPAs work well with a variety of pizza toppings, offering a refreshing contrast.
Soft Drinks: For a non-alcoholic option, soft drinks like cola, lemonade, and sparkling water provide a refreshing accompaniment to pizza.
Iced Tea: Iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, is a versatile beverage that pairs well with pizza.
Desserts
Ending your meal with a sweet treat can provide a satisfying conclusion to your pizza feast. Here are some dessert options that pair well with pizza:
Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert, tiramisu features layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a delightful end to a pizza meal.
Gelato: Italian gelato in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and pistachio offers a creamy and refreshing dessert option.
Cannoli: Crisp pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips make a delicious and indulgent dessert.
Panna Cotta: A silky panna cotta with a fruit compote provides a light and elegant dessert.
Affogato: A scoop of vanilla gelato or ice cream topped with a shot of hot espresso creates a delicious and simple dessert.
Conclusion
Pizza is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of foods to create a balanced and enjoyable meal. Fresh salads, savory appetizers, comforting soups, nutritious vegetables, flavorful dips, and a range of beverages can enhance the pizza experience. By choosing complementary sides and drinks, you can elevate your pizza meal and enjoy a satisfying dining experience.
FAQs
What are some healthy sides to eat with pizza?
Healthy sides to eat with pizza include fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and roasted Brussels sprouts. These options add nutritional value and balance to your meal.
What drinks pair well with pizza?
Drinks that pair well with pizza include wine (such as Chianti or Pinot Grigio), beer (like pale ales or lagers), soft drinks (like cola or lemonade), and iced tea.
What desserts go well with pizza?
Desserts that go well with pizza include tiramisu, gelato, and cannoli. These Italian-inspired treats provide a sweet and satisfying end to your meal.