What Foods Go Well With Pizza? Pizza, a beloved dish worldwide, is even more enjoyable when paired with complementary side dishes. At FOODS.EDU.VN, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the best accompaniments for your pizza, from fresh salads to savory appetizers, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Discover exciting pizza pairings, creative side dish ideas, and perfect pizza complements for an unforgettable dining experience.
1. What Are Healthy Sides for Your Pizza Dinner?
Enhance your pizza night with these nutritious options. A healthy side dish for pizza includes fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and light appetizers. These sides add essential nutrients and balance the richness of the pizza, ensuring a guilt-free and satisfying meal.
Eating pizza doesn’t have to be an unhealthy experience. Pairing it with healthy side dishes can help you enjoy your meal without feeling guilty. Here are 10 healthy options to consider:
1.1 Antipasto Salad: A Flavorful Italian Appetizer
This vibrant salad, perfect as an appetizer, combines Italian salami, mozzarella, black olives, roasted red peppers, and grape tomatoes, all tossed in a homemade or store-bought Italian dressing. Preparing it in advance enhances the flavors, making it a convenient and delightful start to any pizza feast.
1.2 Caprese Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Summer Treat
A light and satisfying choice for summer gatherings, this salad features rotini pasta, a mix of grape and cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Chilling the salad before serving allows the flavors to meld, creating a refreshing and flavorful dish.
1.3 Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Asparagus: A Light and Vibrant Dish
Combining light ricotta cheese with fresh lemon and tender asparagus, this pasta dish works well as a side or main course. Ensure all ingredients are prepped before cooking to streamline the process, offering a delightful balance of flavors.
1.4 Spinach Salad with Feta and Strawberries: A Sweet and Savory Delight
A simple yet elegant salad, the sweetness of strawberries complements the salty feta cheese and tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Making it ahead of time simplifies serving, making it ideal for gatherings.
1.5 Vegetable Platter: A Fresh and Crunchy Option
An easy way to add fresh vegetables to your meal, a vegetable platter with a variety of veggies and a dip is an easy add on to any meal. It’s a great way to incorporate a variety of nutrients without extra cooking.
1.6 Italian Salad with Pears, Walnuts, and Gorgonzola Cheese: A Sweet and Savory Blend
This salad combines sweet pears, creamy Gorgonzola cheese, and crunchy walnuts for a harmonious flavor profile. Its simplicity makes it a quick and impressive addition to any meal, suitable for various occasions.
1.7 Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables: A Nutritious and Versatile Dish
Use leftover roasted vegetables to create this hearty salad with farro, quinoa, or lentils. A simple vinaigrette of olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard enhances the flavors, serving well as a side or a main course with added protein.
1.8 Cucumber Yogurt Dip: A Cool and Refreshing Dip
A light and healthy alternative to mayonnaise-based dips, this cucumber yogurt dip is perfect for summer barbecues and pizza parties. It’s easy to make with plain yogurt, diced cucumber, minced garlic, dill weed, salt, and pepper.
1.9 Italian-Style Lentils: A Hearty and Versatile Dish
Lentils, versatile and nutritious, shine in this Italian-style preparation, which includes sautéed onions, garlic, carrots, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Simmering all ingredients together melds the flavors, resulting in a hearty and satisfying dish. According to a study by the University of Milan, lentils are a great source of fiber and protein, and can contribute to a balanced diet when paired with other food groups like vegetables and grains. (University of Milan, Department of Food, Nutrition and Environmental Sciences, 2024).
1.10 Mashed Cauliflower: A Low-Carb Alternative
Mashed cauliflower is a versatile dish that can be used as a replacement for many traditional carbohydrates. When paired with pizza, it provides a lovely complement to each bite.
2. What Are Some Vegetarian Side Dishes to Serve with Pizza?
Delight in these plant-based accompaniments. Vegetarian side dishes like quinoa salad, roasted sweet potatoes, and grilled vegetables offer diverse flavors and nutrients, complementing the pizza without meat.
There are many reasons why someone might want to make a vegetarian side dish, including the fact that vegetables are a great source of nutrients and fiber. Moreover, cooking a vegetarian dish can be a fun and creative way to experiment with new flavors and ingredients.
2.1 Quinoa and Vegetable Salad: A Nutritious Powerhouse
Packed with healthy ingredients and a light dressing, this salad is a crowd-pleasing choice that adds nutrients and flavor to your pizza night. Quinoa, known for its high protein content, combines with various vegetables to create a balanced and delicious side.
2.2 Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Naturally Sweet and Nutritious
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, making them a perfect side dish rich in fiber and vitamins A and C. Their soft texture and caramelized edges offer a delightful contrast to the pizza.
2.3 Grilled Vegetables: Smoky and Flavorful
Grilling adds a smoky flavor to vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or peppers, enhancing their natural tastes without adding calories. These grilled vegetables can be served as a side or even added as toppings to your pizza.
2.4 Sautéed Kale: A Superfood Boost
Sautéing kale with olive oil and garlic enhances its nutritional benefits, providing a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this superfood packed with vitamins and minerals. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, kale is an excellent source of vitamins K, A, and C, and is also rich in antioxidants. (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 2023).
2.5 Roasted Cauliflower: Nutty and Versatile
Roasting cauliflower brings out its nutty flavor, making it a great side dish that complements various meals. Its versatility allows it to be seasoned with different spices and herbs to suit any taste.
2.6 Mashed Potatoes: Creamy Comfort
While it may seem strange to include mashed potatoes as a great pizza side dish, they really are the perfect complement to a nice slice of pizza. Mashed potatoes have a creamy, smooth texture that pairs well with the crispy crust of a pizza.
2.7 Corn on the Cob: A Summertime Classic
Grilled, boiled, or roasted, corn on the cob is a summertime staple that’s a good source of fiber and vitamin C. It adds a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch to your pizza meal.
2.8 Fruit Salad: A Refreshing Finale
A refreshing side dish perfect for summer, fruit salad can be made with any combination of fresh or frozen fruits. Its natural sweetness and vibrant colors make it a delightful and healthy addition to any meal.
2.9 Green Beans: A Classic and Nutritious Choice
Enjoyed fresh, canned, or frozen, green beans are a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C. They offer a simple and nutritious way to add more vegetables to your diet.
2.10 Brussels Sprouts: Versatile and Flavorful
Brussels sprouts can be roasted, sautéed, steamed, or even fried. Roasting them brings out their best flavor, especially when tossed with olive oil and sea salt. Their versatility and nutritional benefits make them an excellent addition to any meal.
3. What Other Side Dishes Pair Well with Pizza?
Explore these diverse options for your pizza feast. Beyond salads and vegetarian dishes, options like chicken wings, garlic knots, and mozzarella sticks offer varied textures and flavors that enhance the pizza experience.
3.1 Assorted Nuts: A Crunchy and Healthy Snack
A mix of nuts provides healthy fats and a satisfying crunch, making them a great appetizer before indulging in pizza.
3.2 Baked Beans: A Hearty and Flavorful Addition
Baked beans offer a sweet and savory flavor that complements the savory taste of pizza, adding a hearty element to the meal.
3.3 Baked Potato: Versatile and Filling
A baked potato can be customized with various toppings, making it a versatile and filling side dish that pairs well with pizza.
3.4 Bell Peppers: Sweet and Crunchy
Sliced bell peppers offer a sweet and crunchy contrast to pizza, adding freshness and vitamins to the meal.
3.5 Bruschetta: A Toasty Italian Appetizer
Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze makes for a flavorful Italian appetizer that complements the pizza.
3.6 Caesar Salad: A Classic Green Salad
A Caesar salad provides a crisp and refreshing balance to the richness of pizza, making it a popular and light side dish.
3.7 Calamari Rings: Crispy Seafood Delight
Fried calamari rings offer a crispy and savory seafood option that can be enjoyed before or alongside pizza.
3.8 Cauliflower Rice: A Low-Carb Alternative
Cauliflower rice is a healthy and low-carb alternative to traditional rice, providing a light and nutritious side dish.
3.9 Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: Flavorful and Nutritious
Cauliflower rice pilaf, with added vegetables and seasonings, offers a flavorful and nutritious side that pairs well with pizza.
3.10 Chicken Wings: A Classic Combination
Chicken wings, whether spicy or savory, are a popular choice to enjoy with pizza, offering a satisfying and complementary taste.
3.11 Classic Caesar Salad: A Timeless Favorite
The classic Caesar salad, with its creamy dressing and crisp romaine lettuce, remains a timeless and refreshing side dish.
3.12 Coleslaw: Creamy and Crunchy
Coleslaw provides a creamy and crunchy texture that complements the pizza, adding a refreshing and tangy element to the meal.
3.13 Corn On The Cob: Sweet and Juicy
Corn on the cob, whether grilled or boiled, adds a sweet and juicy element that can be a delightful addition to a pizza night.
3.14 Cream Of Mushroom Soup: A Comforting Classic
Cream of mushroom soup offers a comforting and savory option that pairs well with the flavors of pizza, providing a warm and satisfying contrast.
3.15 Dark Chocolate: A Rich Treat
A piece of dark chocolate can be a surprisingly delightful addition, providing a rich and contrasting flavor to the savory pizza.
3.16 Easy Pasta Salad: A Quick and Versatile Choice
Easy pasta salad, with its variety of ingredients and flavors, offers a quick and versatile side dish that can be customized to your liking.
3.17 French Fries: A Familiar Favorite
French fries are a familiar and comforting option that many enjoy with pizza, adding a salty and crispy element to the meal.
3.18 Fresh Fruit: A Light and Refreshing Option
Fresh fruit offers a light and refreshing way to cleanse the palate after enjoying pizza, providing natural sweetness and vitamins.
3.19 Fresh Veggies: A Crunchy and Healthy Choice
A selection of fresh vegetables provides a crunchy and healthy option, adding vitamins and fiber to your meal.
3.20 Garlic Cheese Bread: A Classic Pairing
Garlic cheese bread is a classic accompaniment that enhances the pizza experience, providing a cheesy and garlicky flavor that complements the pizza.
3.21 Garlic Knots: Chewy and Flavorful
Garlic knots offer a chewy and flavorful addition that can be dipped in marinara sauce, making them a delightful side dish.
3.22 Green Beans: Simple and Nutritious
Green beans, simply prepared, provide a nutritious and straightforward side dish that adds a healthy element to the pizza meal.
3.23 Green Salads: Light and Refreshing
Green salads, with a variety of dressings, offer a light and refreshing balance to the richness of pizza, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
3.24 Green Smoothie: A Healthy Boost
A green smoothie provides a healthy boost of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and refreshing addition to your pizza night.
3.25 Grilled Vegetables: Smoky and Flavorful
Grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor and enhance the natural tastes, offering a healthy and flavorful side dish.
3.26 Hasselback Potatoes: Elegant and Tasty
Hasselback potatoes, with their elegant presentation and crispy edges, make for a tasty and impressive side dish.
3.27 Italian Bruschetta Bar: Customizable and Fun
An Italian bruschetta bar allows guests to customize their bruschetta, adding a fun and interactive element to the meal.
3.28 Italian Pistachio Cream: A Decadent Treat
Italian pistachio cream offers a decadent and rich treat that can be enjoyed as a dessert after pizza.
3.29 Jalapeno Poppers: Spicy and Cheesy
Jalapeno poppers provide a spicy and cheesy option that adds a kick to the meal, complementing the flavors of pizza.
3.30 Kale Salad With Lemon Dressing: A Healthy and Tangy Option
Kale salad with lemon dressing offers a healthy and tangy option that balances the richness of pizza, providing essential nutrients.
3.31 King Crab Salad: A Luxurious Choice
King crab salad provides a luxurious and flavorful option that can be a special and indulgent addition to your pizza night.
3.32 Macaroni And Cheese: A Comfort Food Favorite
Macaroni and cheese is a comfort food favorite that many enjoy with pizza, adding a creamy and cheesy element to the meal.
3.33 Minestrone Soup: Hearty and Nutritious
Minestrone soup provides a hearty and nutritious option that pairs well with the flavors of pizza, offering a warm and satisfying contrast.
3.34 Mozzarella Cheese Balls: Simple and Tasty
Mozzarella cheese balls are a simple and tasty option that can be enjoyed as an appetizer before indulging in pizza.
3.35 Mozzarella Sticks: A Classic Appetizer
Mozzarella sticks are a classic appetizer that many enjoy with pizza, offering a cheesy and crispy delight.
3.36 Onion Rings: Crispy and Savory
Onion rings provide a crispy and savory option that adds a satisfying crunch to the meal, complementing the flavors of pizza.
3.37 Pasta Salad With Arugula: Peppery and Fresh
Pasta salad with arugula offers a peppery and fresh option that balances the richness of pizza, providing a light and flavorful side.
3.38 Petite Peas: Sweet and Tender
Petite peas offer a sweet and tender addition that can be a simple and nutritious side dish.
3.39 Pita Chips: Crunchy and Versatile
Pita chips are a crunchy and versatile option that can be used for dipping or enjoyed on their own, adding a satisfying crunch to the meal.
3.40 Potato Salad: Creamy and Flavorful
Potato salad provides a creamy and flavorful option that can be a classic and comforting side dish.
3.41 Quinoa Salad With Cranberries And Pecans: Nutritious and Flavorful
Quinoa salad with cranberries and pecans offers a nutritious and flavorful option that balances the richness of pizza, providing essential nutrients.
3.42 Ratatouille: A Flavorful Vegetable Stew
Ratatouille, a flavorful vegetable stew, provides a hearty and nutritious option that pairs well with the flavors of pizza.
3.43 Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Nutty and Crispy
Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nutty and crispy addition that can be a healthy and flavorful side dish.
3.44 Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Creamy and Flavorful
Roasted red pepper hummus provides a creamy and flavorful option that can be enjoyed with pita chips or vegetables, adding a healthy and delicious side.
3.45 Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and Nutritious
Roasted sweet potatoes offer a sweet and nutritious addition that can be a simple and delicious side dish.
3.46 Roasted Vegetables: Flavorful and Nutritious
Roasted vegetables provide a flavorful and nutritious option that can be a healthy and versatile side dish.
3.47 Romaine Lettuce: Crisp and Refreshing
Romaine lettuce offers a crisp and refreshing option that can be used in salads or as a base for other side dishes.
3.48 Sautéed Greens: Healthy and Flavorful
Sautéed greens provide a healthy and flavorful option that can be a nutritious and versatile side dish.
3.49 Seasonal Fruits: Fresh and Vibrant
Seasonal fruits offer a fresh and vibrant addition that can be a light and refreshing dessert or side dish.
3.50 Simple Salad: Light and Easy
A simple salad, with a variety of greens and dressings, offers a light and easy option that can be a refreshing side dish.
3.51 Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy and Flavorful
Spinach artichoke dip provides a creamy and flavorful option that can be enjoyed with pita chips or vegetables, adding a delicious and indulgent side.
3.52 Spinach Salad: Nutritious and Refreshing
Spinach salad offers a nutritious and refreshing option that can be a healthy and flavorful side dish.
3.53 Steamed Broccoli: Simple and Nutritious
Steamed broccoli provides a simple and nutritious option that can be a healthy and versatile side dish.
3.54 Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory and Flavorful
Stuffed mushrooms offer a savory and flavorful option that can be a delicious and indulgent side dish.
3.55 Sweet Potatoes: Versatile and Nutritious
Sweet potatoes provide a versatile and nutritious option that can be used in a variety of side dishes.
3.56 Tater Tots: Crispy and Fun
Tater tots are a crispy and fun option that many enjoy with pizza, adding a playful and comforting element to the meal.
3.57 Tomato Soup: Warm and Comforting
Tomato soup provides a warm and comforting option that pairs well with the flavors of pizza, offering a satisfying contrast.
3.58 Tortellini Pasta Salad: Flavorful and Filling
Tortellini pasta salad offers a flavorful and filling option that can be a hearty and satisfying side dish.
3.59 Whole Wheat Tortillas: Versatile and Healthy
Whole wheat tortillas are a versatile and healthy option that can be used for wraps or as a side with dips.
3.60 Zucchini And Cheese Pasta: Light and Flavorful
Zucchini and cheese pasta provides a light and flavorful option that can be a delicious and healthy side dish.
3.61 Zucchini Fries: Crispy and Healthy
Zucchini fries offer a crispy and healthy alternative to traditional fries, adding a playful and nutritious element to the meal.
3.62 Zucchini Noodles: Low-Carb and Versatile
Zucchini noodles are a low-carb and versatile option that can be used as a healthy alternative to traditional pasta.
4. What Are the Best Desserts for a Pizza Party?
Conclude your pizza feast with these sweet treats. Desserts like tiramisu, fruit tart, and chocolate cake provide a sweet and satisfying end to a pizza party, offering a delightful contrast to the savory meal.
4.1 Baked Pears with Maple Syrup: A Warm and Cozy Dessert
Baked pears with maple syrup offer a warm and cozy dessert that provides a comforting and sweet end to your pizza party.
4.2 Banana and Honey Ice Cream: A Simple Sweet Treat
Banana and honey ice cream is a simple and sweet treat that can be a refreshing and healthy dessert option.
4.3 Brown Rice Pudding with Cinnamon: A Comforting Grain Dessert
Brown rice pudding with cinnamon provides a comforting and warm dessert that offers a unique and satisfying twist.
4.4 Bundt Cakes: Elegant and Versatile
Bundt cakes offer an elegant and versatile dessert option that can be customized with various flavors and toppings.
4.5 Cannoli: A Classic Italian Dessert
Cannoli is a classic Italian dessert that provides a creamy and sweet filling with a crispy shell, offering a delightful and indulgent treat.
4.6 Cheesecake: A Rich and Creamy Indulgence
Cheesecake provides a rich and creamy indulgence that can be a decadent and satisfying dessert option.
4.7 Chocolate Avocado Mousse: A Healthy and Rich Dessert
Chocolate avocado mousse offers a healthy and rich dessert that provides a creamy texture and a guilt-free indulgence.
4.8 Chocolate Cake: A Decadent Classic
Chocolate cake provides a decadent and classic dessert that can be a crowd-pleasing and satisfying option.
4.9 Coconut Macaroons: Chewy and Sweet
Coconut macaroons offer a chewy and sweet dessert that provides a delightful and tropical flavor.
4.10 Cookies: A Simple Sweet Treat
Cookies are a simple sweet treat that can be a crowd-pleasing and versatile dessert option.
4.11 Dessert Pizzas: A Fun and Creative Treat
Dessert pizzas offer a fun and creative twist on traditional pizza, providing a sweet and customizable dessert option.
4.12 Flourless Chocolate Cake: A Rich and Gluten-Free Dessert
Flourless chocolate cake provides a rich and gluten-free dessert that can be a decadent and satisfying option.
4.13 Frozen Grapes: A Refreshing and Simple Dessert
Frozen grapes offer a refreshing and simple dessert that provides a sweet and cooling treat.
4.14 Fruit Salad with Yogurt Dressing: A Light and Healthy Option
Fruit salad with yogurt dressing offers a light and healthy dessert that provides a refreshing and nutritious end to your meal.
4.15 Fruit Tart: An Elegant Dessert
Fruit tart provides an elegant dessert that combines a flaky crust with a sweet and creamy filling, topped with fresh and vibrant fruits.
4.16 Ice Cream: A Classic Sweet Treat
Ice cream is a classic sweet treat that can be a crowd-pleasing and versatile dessert option.
4.17 Panna Cotta: A Smooth and Creamy Dessert
Panna Cotta offers a smooth and creamy dessert that provides a delicate and elegant option.
4.18 Pazooki: A Warm and Gooey Cookie Dessert
Pazooki provides a warm and gooey cookie dessert that can be a decadent and satisfying treat.
4.19 Profiteroles: Cream-Filled Pastries
Profiteroles are cream-filled pastries that offer a light and airy dessert option, providing a delightful and elegant treat.
4.20 Roasted Peaches: Warm and Sweet
Roasted peaches offer a warm and sweet dessert that provides a comforting and flavorful option.
4.21 Souffle: An Elegant Dessert
Souffle provides an elegant dessert that requires skill and precision, offering a light and airy treat.
4.22 Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp: A Fruity and Warm Dessert
Strawberry rhubarb crisp offers a fruity and warm dessert that combines sweet strawberries with tangy rhubarb, topped with a crispy crumble.
4.23 Tiramisu: A Classic Italian Dessert
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that provides a creamy and coffee-flavored treat, offering a delightful and indulgent end to your pizza party.
5. How Can I Make Pizza Night More Creative and Fun?
Elevate your pizza night with these inventive ideas. To make pizza night more creative and fun, experiment with different pizza toppings, create a DIY pizza bar, and pair the meal with unique side dishes and desserts for a memorable dining experience.
Pizza is one of the most versatile foods out there. You can eat it with just about anything! Be creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find what you like best. And remember, pizza night doesn’t have to be unhealthy. With a little planning, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that everyone will love!
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FAQ: What Foods Go Well with Pizza?
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What is a classic side dish for pizza?
A classic side dish for pizza is a Caesar salad. Its crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of pizza. -
What are some healthy vegetable sides for pizza?
Healthy vegetable sides include roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed kale, and grilled vegetables. These options add essential nutrients and fiber to your meal. -
Can soup be a good side for pizza?
Yes, soup can be a great side for pizza, especially tomato soup or minestrone soup. These soups offer a warm and comforting complement to the pizza. -
What is a good appetizer to serve before pizza?
A good appetizer to serve before pizza is bruschetta. Its toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil enhances the dining experience. -
What are some kid-friendly sides for pizza?
Kid-friendly sides for pizza include mozzarella sticks, tater tots, and fruit salad. These options are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. -
What is a surprising dessert that goes well with pizza?
Dark chocolate can be a surprisingly delightful dessert that complements the savory flavors of pizza, offering a rich and contrasting taste. -
Is it okay to serve mashed potatoes as a side with pizza?
Yes, mashed potatoes can be a comforting and unexpected side dish that pairs well with pizza, especially when seasoned with herbs and cheese. -
What drink pairs best with pizza and its side dishes?
A crisp beer, a glass of red wine, or a refreshing sparkling water pairs best with pizza and its side dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience. -
How can I make a pizza night more nutritious?
To make pizza night more nutritious, use whole wheat crust, load up on vegetable toppings, and serve with healthy side dishes like salads and roasted vegetables. -
What are some creative toppings to add to pizza?
Creative toppings to add to pizza include figs, prosciutto, goat cheese, and caramelized onions, offering unique and gourmet flavor combinations.
