I love pizza, and I know how important the right side dishes are. There’s nothing better than enjoying a hot slice and then a delicious side that makes it even better. Whether you’re having a pizza party or just want a cozy night in, these side dishes will make your pizza night unforgettable. Wondering how to make the most of Pizza Side Dishes? We’ve got tips!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Discover 26 delicious side dish recipes to pair with your pizza
- Explore a variety of flavors, from crunchy salads to savory appetizers
- Learn quick and easy preparation tips for side dishes like garlic bread and breadsticks
- Enhance your pizza experience with the perfect complementary side dishes
- Enjoy a complete and satisfying meal with your favorite pizza and tasty accompaniments
Classic Italian Appetizers to serve as Pizza Side Dishes
Make your pizza night special with classic Italian starters. Enjoy the crisp taste of bruschetta and the cool mix of caprese salad. These dishes balance well with your pizza.
Bruschetta with Fresh Tomatoes
Bruschetta is a favorite in Italy. It’s toasted bread with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. The bread’s crunch, the tomatoes’ juiciness, and garlic’s flavor make a great first bite.
Caprese Salad for a Refreshing Bite
The caprese salad is a light and refreshing choice. It has mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, all dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The mozzarella and tomatoes are a nice contrast to your pizza.
| Appetizer | Ingredients | Preparation | Serving Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bruschetta | Crusty bread, ripe tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, basil | Toast bread, top with tomato mixture, drizzle with olive oil and vinegar | 4-6 servings |
| Caprese Salad | Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar | Arrange mozzarella and tomatoes, drizzle with oil and vinegar, garnish with basil | 2-4 servings |
Start your pizza night with these classic Italian appetizers. They offer a great mix of flavors and textures. Try the bruschetta or caprese salad for a taste of Italy before your pizza.
“The secret to a great bruschetta is using the freshest, ripest tomatoes and the best quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It’s a simple dish, but the flavors really shine when you use high-quality ingredients.”
Crunchy Salads to Balance Your Pizza
Pairing your favorite pizza with a crisp salad is a great way to make a balanced meal. Choose from a classic Caesar or a vibrant garden salad. These salads will add a nutritious boost and balance the pizza’s rich flavors.
Caesar Salad with Crispy Croutons
The mix of romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing is loved by many. Make your own croutons for a crunchy touch. Try using kale or baby spinach for a twist, topped with toasted breadcrumbs.
Garden Salad with Seasonal Veggies
For a colorful salad, use fresh, seasonal veggies. Mix in romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, and arugula. Choose a dressing like vinaigrette or ranch to match the pizza.
Be creative with your salads. Add watermelon radishes or edible flowers for a unique look and taste. These touches will make your pizza night special.
Flavorful Dips That Pair Perfectly
Make your pizza night unforgettable with these irresistible dips. The creamy spinach artichoke dip and the zesty buffalo chicken dip will impress everyone. They’re sure to make your guests want more.
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
The spinach artichoke dip is a favorite for good reason. It mixes spinach, artichoke hearts, and cheeses for a creamy treat. Enjoy it with veggies, bread, or on pizza for extra flavor.
Zesty Buffalo Chicken Dip
Love spice? Try the buffalo chicken dip. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with buffalo sauce, chicken, and cheese. Serve it with celery or carrot sticks, or on pizza for a unique taste.
These dips will make your pizza night even better. They’re perfect as appetizers or toppings for your favorite pizza. Your taste buds will thank you.
Savory Breadsticks and Knots
Elevate your pizza night with savory breadsticks and knots. These sides add a delightful texture and extra flavor to your pizza.
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Try the classic combo of garlic breadsticks and pizza. They have a buttery, garlicky outside and a soft, cheesy inside. Made from store-bought pizza dough, they’re easy to make and delicious.
Herb-Butter Knots for Extra Flavor
For something different, try our herb-butter knots. These fluffy knots are filled with herbs and butter. They add a rich flavor to your pizza. Enjoy them warm from the oven.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pizza Dough | 1 lb |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Parmesan Cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Dried Oregano | 1 tsp |
| Dried Basil | 1 tsp |
| Kosher Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Adding these savory breadsticks and knots to your pizza night makes it better. They pair well with your favorite wings or dips for a special treat.
Hearty Soups to Warm Up the Meal
Make your pizza night better with warm, comforting soups. These soups add flavor and make a great start or side to your meal.
Tomato Basil Soup for a Classic Touch
A classic tomato basil soup is perfect with pizza. It has a rich, velvety texture that balances the pizza’s zesty flavors. Make it ahead and reheat for a cozy start.
Rustic Minestrone for a Healthy Option
Try a hearty minestrone soup for a nutritious meal. This Italian soup is full of vegetables. It’s a filling choice that goes well with pizza.
Choose between tomato basil soup or rustic minestrone for a warm pizza night. Both soups offer a comforting start or side to your meal.
Tasty Finger Foods to Enjoy with Pizza
Elevate your pizza night with a selection of mouthwatering finger foods! From crispy mozzarella sticks to flavorful chicken wings, these tasty appetizers are the perfect companions to your favorite pizza.
Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Indulge in the classic pairing of gooey, melted mozzarella sticks and a zesty marinara dipping sauce. These breaded and fried cheese bites offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, perfectly complementing the bold taste of your pizza.
Chicken Wings in Various Flavors
Spice up your pizza night with a selection of saucy chicken wings. From tangy buffalo to savory garlic parmesan, these finger-licking-good wings provide a protein-packed side that’s sure to satisfy. Pair them with cool, creamy dips for a well-balanced appetizer spread.
These crowd-pleasing finger foods are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Serve them alongside your freshly baked pizza for a truly delightful dining experience.
| Finger Food | Flavor Profile | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Mozzarella Sticks | Crispy, gooey, and cheesy | Pair with marinara sauce for dipping |
| Chicken Wings | Tangy, savory, or spicy | Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese |
“Finger foods are the perfect way to elevate your pizza night and create a truly memorable dining experience.”
Unique Sides for a Creative Twist
Elevate your pizza night with unexpected and delightful side dishes. These will leave your guests craving more. Discover unique sides that complement your pizza’s flavors and add a creative touch to your meal.
Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce
Indulge in the crispy, golden goodness of fried ravioli. This Italian-inspired appetizer is a delight. The savory, cheesy filling inside the breaded exterior pairs well with tangy marinara dipping sauce.
Together, they create a flavor explosion with every bite. Serve these fried ravioli as a creative side to your pizza for a unique and satisfying experience.
Stuffed Peppers for a Flavor Burst
Bring a burst of flavor to your pizza night with stuffed pepper. These versatile veggies can be filled with a variety of ingredients. From ground meat and rice to a vegetarian blend of quinoa and fresh herbs.
The sweet and roasted pepper provides a delightful contrast to the rich and savory flavors of your pizza. This makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
| Unique Sides | Flavor Profile | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Ravioli | Crispy, cheesy, tangy | 30 minutes |
| Stuffed Peppers | Sweet, roasted, savory | 45 minutes |
These unique side dishes not only complement the flavors of your pizza but also add excitement to your pizza night. Explore the possibilities and delight your taste buds with these creative offerings.
Sweet Treats to End Your Pizza Night
After enjoying a tasty pizza, it’s time for something sweet. Try a warm chocolate chip cookie skillet or cool gelato in many flavors.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet
Picture a warm, fresh chocolate chip cookie in a cast-iron skillet. It’s great for sharing. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for a special treat.
Gelato to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Gelato is a refreshing end to your meal. Choose from chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, or mango. Its creamy texture will make you feel happy and full.
| Dessert | Flavor Profiles | Serving Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet | Warm, gooey, and loaded with chocolate chips | Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream |
| Gelato | Dense, creamy texture with a variety of flavors | Enjoy on its own or paired with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce |
These desserts are the best way to finish your pizza night. Enjoy the chocolate chip cookie skillet or cool down with gelato. It’s a memorable pizza night experience.
Drinks That Enhance Your Pizza Experience
Make your pizza night even better with the right drinks. Craft beers and Italian sodas are great choices. They add flavors that match your pizza perfectly.
Craft Beers for the Perfect Pairing
Craft breweries have changed the beer world. They offer many flavors that go well with pizza. Whether you like a light lager with a margherita or a hoppy IPA with a meat-lover’s pie, there’s something for everyone.
Try different beers to find the best match for your favorite pizza.
Italian Sodas for a Refreshing Choice
Looking for something without alcohol? Italian soda is a great pick. They come in many fruit flavors, like lemon, orange, blood orange, and elderflower. They’re fizzy and refreshing, perfect for balancing your pizza’s richness.