More Tasty Side Dishes For Pizza

Pizza night is a favorite for many families and friends. It’s a simple meal that brings people together. But sometimes you want more than just pizza on your plate.

Adding side dishes to your pizza meal can make it more filling and fun. You can try new flavors and textures alongside your favorite slice. From salads to wings, there are many tasty options to choose from. Let’s look at some great sides that go well with pizza.

1. Garlic Knots

Garlic knots are a tasty side dish that perfectly complements pizza. These bite-sized treats are made from pizza dough, shaped into knots, and coated with garlic butter.

To make garlic knots, you’ll need pizza dough, butter, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Cut the dough into strips, tie them into knots, and brush them with seasoned garlic butter.

Bake the knots in a preheated 400°F oven for about 12 minutes. They’re done when the bottoms are golden and the tops are lightly browned.

For extra flavor, brush the freshly baked knots with more garlic butter. Serve them warm alongside your pizza for a delicious and satisfying meal.

2. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a perfect side dish for pizza. This Italian classic combines fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

To make it, slice ripe tomatoes and mozzarella. Arrange them on a plate with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the top.

You can add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. For a twist, try using cherry tomatoes and small mozzarella balls.

Caprese salad adds a light, refreshing contrast to rich, cheesy pizza. The flavors complement each other nicely, making for a satisfying meal.

3. Bruschetta

Bruschetta makes a tasty side dish for pizza. This Italian appetizer consists of grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with olive oil and salt.

You can add various toppings to bruschetta. Popular choices include diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese.

The crispy texture of bruschetta complements the softness of pizza. Its fresh flavors also balance out the richness of cheese and meats on your pizza.

For a quick bruschetta, toast some baguette slices and top them with a mix of chopped tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Drizzle with olive oil before serving alongside your pizza.

4. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms make a tasty side dish for pizza. They offer a savory, earthy flavor that complements the cheesy goodness of pizza.

You can stuff mushrooms with a variety of fillings. Try cream cheese, sausage, and pepperoni for a pizza-inspired twist. Add some garlic and herbs for extra flavor.

Bake the stuffed mushrooms until they’re tender and the filling is hot and bubbly. The crispy, golden-brown tops add a nice contrast to the soft pizza crust.

Serve these bite-sized treats alongside your pizza for a fun and delicious meal. Your guests will love the combination of textures and flavors.

5. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad pairs wonderfully with pizza. The crisp romaine lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy pizza.

The tangy dressing and savory parmesan cheese complement the pizza’s flavors. Crunchy croutons add texture to your meal.

You can easily make Caesar salad at home or order it from many pizzerias. It’s a lighter option that balances out the richness of pizza.

For a complete meal, add some grilled chicken to your Caesar salad. This gives you extra protein and makes the combination more filling.

6. Antipasto Skewers

Antipasto skewers make a great side dish for pizza. You can easily put them together in about 15 minutes.

Thread colorful ingredients onto wooden skewers for a tasty appetizer. Use items like tortellini, olives, cheese cubes, and cured meats.

Mix up the textures and flavors for more interest. Try adding artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, or fresh basil leaves.

You can prepare these skewers up to 24 hours ahead of time. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

For extra flavor, drizzle the skewers with Italian dressing or balsamic glaze before eating. This simple side adds a fun Italian touch to your pizza night.

7. Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks make a great side dish for pizza. These crispy, golden-brown appetizers offer a satisfying cheese pull when you bite into them.

You can serve mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato flavor complements both the mozzarella sticks and your pizza.

For a twist, try pairing them with a pesto sauce instead. The herby flavor adds a nice contrast to the rich cheese.

Mozzarella sticks are easy to share and fun to eat. They’re perfect for parties or casual dinners with friends and family.

8. Coleslaw

Coleslaw makes a great side for pizza. Its cool crunch balances the warm, cheesy pizza perfectly. You can whip up a quick coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots.

Mix in some mayo, vinegar, sugar, and salt for a classic dressing. Or try a tangy version with Greek yogurt instead of mayo. Add some chopped apples or raisins for extra sweetness if you like.

Coleslaw is light and refreshing. It cuts through the richness of pizza nicely. Plus, it adds more veggies to your meal. Make a big batch and enjoy it with leftovers too.

9. Greek Salad

Greek salad offers a refreshing contrast to pizza’s richness. This mix of crisp vegetables, tangy feta, and briny olives cleanses your palate between bites of pizza.

To make it, combine chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and bell peppers. Add kalamata olives and cubes of feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle dried oregano on top.

The bright flavors and crunchy textures of Greek salad complement pizza well. It’s a light, healthy option that balances out heavier toppings. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

10. Cauliflower Bites

Cauliflower bites make a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional pizza. These small, savory morsels are easy to prepare and pack a flavorful punch.

To make them, grate cauliflower into fine crumbs and microwave until tender. Squeeze out excess moisture, then mix with eggs, cheese, and herbs.

Form the mixture into small rounds and bake until golden brown. Top with pizza sauce and your favorite toppings for a pizza-inspired treat.

You can customize these bites with different cheeses or add-ins to suit your taste. They’re perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer alongside your main pizza dish.

11. Spinach Artichoke Dip

Spinach artichoke dip makes a tasty side dish for pizza. You can easily whip up this creamy dip with a few simple ingredients.

Mix together cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and seasonings in a bowl. Add chopped spinach and artichoke hearts, then stir in some shredded mozzarella.

Bake the dip until hot and bubbly. Serve it warm alongside your pizza slices for dipping. The tangy, cheesy flavors complement the pizza perfectly.

For a twist, try spreading the dip on pizza crust before baking. Top with extra cheese and bake until golden. This creates a delicious spinach artichoke pizza variation.

12. Parmesan Breadsticks

Parmesan breadsticks are a tasty side dish for pizza. You can make them at home with simple ingredients.

Start by rolling out pizza dough into a rectangle. Spread a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs over the dough. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Cut the dough into thin strips using a pizza cutter. Twist each strip and place them on a baking sheet.

Bake the breadsticks in a preheated oven until golden brown. They’ll be crispy on the outside and soft inside.

Serve your homemade Parmesan breadsticks warm alongside your pizza for a delicious meal.

13. Zucchini Fries

Zucchini fries are a tasty and healthier alternative to regular potato fries. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

To make them, cut zucchini into sticks, coat them in breadcrumbs, and bake or air fry until golden brown. They’re quick and easy to prepare.

Zucchini fries pair well with pizza, offering a light and crispy contrast to the cheesy, savory pie. You can serve them with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch for extra flavor.

These fries are a great way to add more veggies to your meal. They’re lower in calories than regular fries but still satisfying and delicious.

14. Panzanella Salad

Panzanella salad is a tasty Italian dish that pairs well with pizza. You can make it using day-old bread cubes, fresh tomatoes, and other vegetables.

To prepare, toast bread cubes in the oven until golden brown. Mix them with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Add fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.

Dress the salad with a simple mix of olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. The bread soaks up the dressing and vegetable juices, creating a delicious blend of textures.

This refreshing salad offers a nice contrast to hot, cheesy pizza. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread and add more veggies to your meal.

15. Fried Pickles

Fried pickles are a tasty side dish that pairs well with pizza. You can make them easily at home. Start by slicing dill pickles into chips or spears.

Dip the pickle pieces in a mixture of flour, eggs, and seasoning. Then coat them in breadcrumbs. Fry the coated pickles in hot oil until golden brown.

Serve your fried pickles with a cool ranch dip or tangy remoulade sauce. The crunchy texture and tangy flavor complement pizza nicely. This side dish adds variety to your meal and gives you something to munch on between pizza slices.

16. Arugula Salad

Arugula salad is a tasty and light side dish for pizza. You can make it quickly with just a few ingredients.

Start with fresh arugula leaves. Add some shaved Parmesan cheese on top. For dressing, mix lemon juice and olive oil.

Toss everything together gently. The peppery taste of arugula goes well with many pizza flavors.

You can also add extras like cherry tomatoes or pine nuts if you want. This salad gives a nice contrast to the richness of pizza.

17. Baked Potato Wedges

Baked potato wedges are a tasty and healthier alternative to French fries. They make a great side dish for pizza night. You can easily make them at home with just a few ingredients.

Cut potatoes into wedges and toss them with olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Popular choices include garlic powder, paprika, and Italian herbs. Spread the wedges on a baking sheet and bake until golden and crispy.

The outside gets crisp while the inside stays soft and fluffy. Baked potato wedges are less greasy than fried versions but still satisfy your craving for something savory alongside pizza.

Serve them hot with ketchup, ranch dressing, or even marinara sauce for dipping. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this simple yet delicious side dish.

18. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make a tasty side dish for pizza. You can easily prepare them in the oven while your pizza cooks. Trim and halve the sprouts, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. The sprouts will get crispy on the outside and tender inside. Their slightly bitter flavor balances out rich, cheesy pizza.

For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or red pepper flakes before roasting. You can also drizzle balsamic vinegar or sprinkle parmesan cheese on the sprouts after cooking. The crispy texture and savory taste pair well with many pizza toppings.

19. Buffalo Cauliflower

Buffalo cauliflower is a tasty pizza side dish that packs a spicy punch. You can make it by tossing cauliflower florets in buffalo sauce and baking them until crispy.

For extra flavor, sprinkle some ranch seasoning on top before serving. This veggie side gives you the classic buffalo wing taste without the meat.

You can also use buffalo cauliflower as a pizza topping. Just place the spicy florets on your pizza dough with cheese and bake until bubbly.

Whether as a side or topping, buffalo cauliflower adds zesty flavor to your pizza night. It’s a fun twist on a popular appetizer that pairs well with pizza’s savory taste.

20. Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup makes a great side dish for pizza. Its rich flavor complements the savory taste of pizza toppings.

You can serve this soup hot or cold, depending on your preference. It’s easy to make at home with fresh tomatoes and basil.

For a fun twist, try serving the soup in small cups as a dipping sauce for your pizza crust. This adds a tasty element to your meal.

If you want to save time, you can find pre-made tomato basil soup at most grocery stores. Just heat it up and serve alongside your pizza for a quick and tasty combo.

21. Cheesy Bread

Cheesy bread is a tasty side dish that pairs well with pizza. You can make it easily at home using pizza dough or a loaf of bread.

Spread garlic butter on the bread and top it with a mix of cheeses. Popular choices include mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.

Bake the bread in a hot oven until the cheese melts and bubbles. The edges should turn golden brown.

Slice the cheesy bread into sticks for easy sharing. Serve it warm alongside your pizza for a delicious, cheesy feast.

Nutritional Benefits of Side Dishes

Side dishes can boost the nutritional value of your pizza meal. They add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to balance out the carbs and fats in pizza.

Vegetable sides like salads and roasted veggies are packed with nutrients. They provide vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. These help support your immune system and heart health.

Fruit-based sides offer natural sweetness along with vitamins and fiber. They can help satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthier way than sugary desserts.

Whole grain sides like quinoa or brown rice give you complex carbs and extra fiber. This helps keep you full longer and aids digestion.

Lean protein sides such as grilled chicken or beans can make your meal more filling. They help build and repair muscles.

Here’s a quick look at some nutritious side options:

  • Leafy green salad: Vitamins A, C, K, folate
  • Roasted broccoli: Fiber, vitamin C, potassium
  • Fresh fruit salad: Vitamin C, antioxidants
  • Quinoa: Protein, fiber, iron
  • Grilled chicken breast: Lean protein, B vitamins

By adding these sides, you can turn pizza night into a more balanced meal. You’ll get extra nutrients without giving up the foods you love.

Pairing Side Dishes With Different Pizza Types

Pizza and side dishes go hand in hand. The right pairing can make your meal more enjoyable. Let’s look at some great side dish options for popular pizza types.

Pairing with Margherita Pizza

Margherita pizza has simple flavors. It’s best to pair it with light sides that won’t overpower it. A fresh green salad works well. Try mixed greens with a light vinaigrette dressing.

Bruschetta is another good choice. The tomato and basil flavors match the pizza toppings. You can make it easily with toasted bread, diced tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

For a heartier option, try grilled vegetables. Zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers are tasty choices. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt before grilling.

Pairing with Pepperoni Pizza

Pepperoni pizza is rich and savory. Balance it out with some fresh, crisp sides. A Caesar salad is a classic choice. The cool, crunchy lettuce contrasts nicely with the warm pizza.

Garlic bread is another popular option. Its bold flavor stands up well to the pepperoni. You can make it by spreading garlic butter on sliced Italian bread and toasting it.

For a healthier choice, try a veggie platter. Include carrot sticks, celery, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices. Serve with a creamy ranch dip for extra flavor.

Pairing with Veggie Pizza

Veggie pizza is already packed with vegetables, so you can be creative with sides. A light soup can be a good match. Try a tomato or minestrone soup for a comforting Italian feel.

Fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast. Mix together grapes, pineapple chunks, and orange slices. The sweetness balances out the savory pizza flavors.

Roasted potatoes make a tasty side too. Cut small potatoes into wedges, toss with olive oil and herbs, then roast until crispy. They add a nice texture to your meal.

Creative Plating and Presentation

Pizza plating goes beyond just serving slices on a plate. With some creativity, you can make your pizza look more appealing and enhance the dining experience.

Color Coordination

Choose plates that make your pizza pop. White plates work well for colorful toppings, while dark plates can make light-colored pizzas stand out. Match your sides to your pizza toppings. If you have green peppers on your pizza, add a small green salad. For pizzas with red sauce, pair them with red fruits like strawberries or watermelon.

Try using different shaped plates. Square or oval plates can give a modern look. You can also use wooden boards for a rustic feel. Place colorful napkins or placemats that match your pizza’s toppings.

Use of Garnishes

Garnishes add visual appeal and extra flavor to your pizza. Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley on top of your pizza. This adds a pop of green and a fresh aroma. Drizzle olive oil or balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern across the pizza for an elegant touch.

Add a small bowl of red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan cheese next to the pizza. This lets guests customize their slices. Place a few whole ingredients used in the pizza nearby, like cherry tomatoes or olives. This shows the freshness of your toppings.

Try cutting your pizza into unique shapes. Instead of traditional triangles, cut it into squares or strips. This can make your presentation more interesting and fun to eat.