Did you know the average American eats over 3 billion pizzas a year? This shows how crucial it is to find the right side dishes for your pizza. Whether it’s a pizza party or a cozy night in, these top 10 simple sides will make your pizza experience better.
Table of Contents
Classic Mediterranean Salads with Pizza
Pair your pizza with fresh Mediterranean salads for a complete meal. These salads add a nice contrast to your pizza with their vibrant colors and crisp textures. They also bring bold flavors that enhance your meal.
Fresh Greek Salad with Baked Feta
Start with a traditional Greek salad. It has crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers. Add tangy Kalamata olives and creamy baked feta cheese.
Toss these ingredients in a zesty dressing. Use extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a hint of garlic. This salad is refreshing and flavorful, perfect with your Mediterranean pizza.
Caprese Salad with Bacon Garlic Dressing
Try a Southern-style Caprese salad with crisp bacon and creamy garlic dressing. Top with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil. Then, drizzle with a tangy dressing made from bacon drippings, garlic, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar.
This salad’s bold flavors and textures are a great contrast to your pizza.
Orange and Fennel Beet Salad
Brighten up your pizza night with an orange and fennel beet salad. Start with mixed greens, then add roasted beets, fresh fennel, and juicy orange segments. Top with toasted pistachios.
Toss the salad in a zesty dressing made with orange marmalade, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. The sweet and savory notes of this salad complement your pizza’s Mediterranean flavors.
These classic Mediterranean salads are perfect for your pizza. They offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of your favorite toppings. Enjoy the bold flavors and textures that make your pizza night even better.
Roasted Vegetable Companions
Choosing the right side dishes can make your pizza experience even better. Roasted vegetables add a delightful touch to your favorite pie. Try crispy broccoli florets with tangy ranch dressing for a crunchy and fresh side. Or, roast broccolini until it’s just right, then top it with cheese for a tasty twist.
These roasted vegetables not only enhance your pizza’s taste and texture but also add nutrition. From the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts to the sweet roasted carrots, there are endless options to pair with your pizza.
When picking roasted vegetables, think about your pizza toppings. A spicy pepperoni pizza goes well with a cool roasted cauliflower salad. A classic margarita pizza is great with roasted asparagus spears. The goal is to find the perfect match for your pizza.
- Crispy roasted broccoli florets with ranch dressing
- Broccolini roasted with cheese
- Caramelized roasted Brussels sprouts
- Roasted carrots with a touch of honey
- Roasted asparagus spears for a Margherita pizza
- Roasted cauliflower salad for a spicy pepperoni pizza
Adding these flavorful and nutritious sides can take your pizza to the next level. They satisfy your taste buds and make your meal balanced and satisfying.
Crispy Garlic Bread and Breadsticks
Make your pizza night better with crispy garlic bread and tasty breadsticks. These add-ons are simple to make and pair well with your favorite pizzas.
Traditional Garlic Bread Preparation
To make classic garlic bread, start by cooking garlic cloves in olive oil until they smell great. Then, mash the garlic into a paste and spread it on crusty bread. Bake until the bread is golden and the kitchen smells amazing. This side dish is a favorite with pizza lovers.
Italian-Style Breadsticks
Make your own Italian-style breadsticks at home. Use store-bought dough or a simple recipe. Shape the dough into sticks and bake until they’re crispy. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and parsley for a real pizzeria taste.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Garlic Salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Active Yeast | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Lukewarm Water | 3/4 – 1 cup |
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salted Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Italian Shredded Cheese Blend | 2 cups |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 – 1 tablespoon |
| Parsley | For Garnish |
With these easy and tasty add-ons, your pizza night will be unforgettable. Enjoy a memorable dining experience.
Fresh Green Sides for Pizza
Make your pizza better with fresh green salads. These salads add a cool contrast to the warm crust and rich toppings. They make your meal balanced and enjoyable. Try arugula or kale to match your pizza’s flavors.
Try a green salad with peppery arugula and creamy white beans for a tangy taste. The arugula’s peppery flavor and the beans’ creaminess balance the pizza’s richness. For something heartier, go for a spinach salad with warm bacon dressing. It brings a savory flavor to your dish.
For a Caesar twist, choose a kale Caesar with crispy toasted breadcrumbs. The kale stands up to the Caesar dressing, and the breadcrumbs add a nice crunch.
| Green Salad Pairing | Key Ingredients | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Arugula and White Bean Salad | Peppery arugula, creamy white beans, lemon vinaigrette | Pairs well with a classic Margherita pizza or a meat-lover’s pie |
| Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing | Fresh spinach, crispy bacon, warm bacon-based dressing | Complements a sausage or pepperoni pizza for a hearty meal |
| Kale Caesar Salad with Breadcrumbs | Sturdy kale leaves, creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy toasted breadcrumbs | Pairs well with a vegetarian or white pizza for a balanced meal |
These pizza garnishes and green salads offer a light, healthy contrast to the pizza. They make your meal complete and satisfying. Try different salads to find your favorite pizza and side dish combo.
Savory Brussels Sprouts and Green Beans
Looking for tasty pizza side dishes? Try Brussels sprouts and green beans. They’re a crispy, savory match for your pizza.
Parmesan-Crusted Brussels Sprouts
Roast Brussels sprouts until they’re golden. Then, add crushed red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese. This mix of tender sprouts and crunchy Parmesan is a perfect savory accompaniment to your pizza.
Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans
Wrap green beans in crispy bacon. Add Parmesan and garlic for extra flavor. The smoky bacon and tender green beans make a great side dish for your pizza.
| Dish | Key Ingredients | Cooking Method | Serving Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parmesan-Crusted Brussels Sprouts | Brussels sprouts, Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes | Roasted in the oven until crispy | 4-6 servings |
| Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans | Green beans, bacon, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Baked in the oven until bacon is crispy | 4-6 servings |
Make your pizza night better with these savory vegetable sides. The crispy Brussels sprouts and the rich bacon-wrapped green beans will be your favorite pizza side dishes.
Light and Refreshing Lettuce Variations
Lettuce-based salads are a great match for pizza. They add a refreshing touch. Let’s explore some lettuce salads that are light and full of flavor.
Romaine Salad with Radishes and Oranges
Start with romaine lettuce. Then, add radishes for crunch and orange segments for sweetness. A zesty lemon vinaigrette brings it all together.
Little Gem Caesar Salad Bites
Little Gem lettuce cups are perfect for Caesar salad. Add parmesan, croutons, and Caesar dressing. It’s a fun variation of a traditional favorite.
Watermelon Radish and Pecorino Salad
Watermelon radishes make this salad pop. Mix them with baby greens, pine nuts, and pecorino cheese. A bright Italian vinaigrette completes it.
| Salad Variation | Main Ingredients | Dressing | Nutritional Info (per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Romaine Salad with Radishes and Oranges | Romaine lettuce, radishes, oranges | Lemon vinaigrette |
|
| Little Gem Caesar Salad Bites | Little Gem lettuce, parmesan, croutons | Caesar dressing |
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| Watermelon Radish and Pecorino Salad | Watermelon radishes, baby greens, pecorino | Italian vinaigrette |
|
These lettuce salads are perfect as pizza extras and refreshing sides. Try different lettuces, add-ins, and dressings. You’ll find many tasty salad options to enjoy with your pizza.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
Elevate your pizza night with prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears. This dish is a perfect match for pizza, adding a touch of sophistication. It’s quick to make and fits well into any pizza party menu.
Cooking Methods and Tips
Start with fresh asparagus spears. Gently drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Then, wrap each spear in a thin slice of prosciutto.
Place the spears on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. This will crisp the prosciutto and tenderize the asparagus.
You can prepare this dish beforehand and keep it in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for those last-minute pizza nights or gatherings.
Sauce Pairing Suggestions
Pair the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus with different dipping sauces or drizzles. Here are some tasty options:
- Balsamic Glaze: Sweet and tangy, it pairs well with the salty prosciutto and fresh asparagus.
- Garlic Aioli: Adds a rich, flavorful touch to the spears.
- Lemon-Herb Yogurt Dip: A refreshing dip that brightens the dish.
Choose a simple balsamic glaze or a more elaborate sauce. Either way, the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus will make your pizza night unforgettable.
Creative Artichoke Preparations
Artichokes are a delightful and versatile vegetable that can elevate your pizza night menu. These bright and savory artichokes can serve as both an appetizer and a side dish. They add a unique and flavorful touch to your pizza experience.
Start by preparing a tangy artichoke dipping sauce that pairs perfectly with your pizza crusts. This sauce can also double as a condiment, allowing your guests to enjoy artichokes as a standalone side dish. Artichokes are a fantastic pizza condiment that can add a burst of flavor to your meal.
For a truly creative artichoke side, try roasting or grilling them to perfection. The caramelized edges and tender center of the artichokes create an irresistible artichoke side that complements the flavors of your pizza. Serve them with a zesty lemon-garlic aioli for dipping, or toss them with a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing vegetable accompaniment.
If you’re looking for a heartier artichoke side, consider making an artichoke and spinach dip. This creamy and indulgent dish can be served with toasted bread or crostini. It provides a delightful contrast to the crispy pizza crust.
| Artichoke Preparation | Serving Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Tangy Artichoke Dipping Sauce | Serve as a condiment for pizza crusts or as a standalone dip |
| Roasted or Grilled Artichokes | Enjoy as a vegetable accompaniment with zesty lemon-garlic aioli or a refreshing vinaigrette |
| Artichoke and Spinach Dip | Serve with toasted bread or crostini as a hearty artichoke side |
No matter how you choose to prepare them, artichokes are a fantastic addition to your pizza night lineup. Experiment with different flavors and cooking methods to discover your favorite artichoke sides. Your guests will be amazed by your inventive approach.
Seasonal Cherry Tomato Medley
Take your pizza to the next level with a Seasonal Cherry Tomato Medley. This side dish is both vibrant and flavorful. It highlights the sweetness and juiciness of various cherry tomatoes, making a great match for your pizza.
Using different cherry tomatoes in colors, sizes, and types adds beauty and taste. This mix lets the fresh tomatoes stand out, enhancing your pizza without overpowering it. Enjoying the natural flavors of these tomato sides creates a balanced taste experience.
To make this pizza garnish side, just mix the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Add minced garlic, chopped shallots, and fresh thyme for extra flavor. This creates a colorful, seasonal accompaniment side that complements your pizza well.
Best served at room temperature or chilled, the medley’s sweetness and juices add a refreshing touch. It’s also great as a topping for bruschetta, a filling for stuffed tomatoes, or a base for a pasta salad. Let the Seasonal Cherry Tomato Medley make your pizza night unforgettable!
Conclusion
Make your pizza night better with a variety of side dishes. Try fresh salads, roasted veggies, garlic bread, and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus. These sides add nutrition, flavor, and interest to your meal.
Looking for a crisp Greek salad, Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts, or cheesy garlic breadsticks? These pizza side dishes can make your pizza night ideas even better. Enjoy the perfect match of your favorite pizza with these tasty sides for a great meal.
Explore pizza-friendly sides and find new favorites for your next pizza night. Get ready to enjoy flavors and textures that make your pizza even better. You’ll have a well-rounded and delicious meal that everyone will love.
FAQ
What are some classic Mediterranean salad options to serve with pizza?
Classic Mediterranean salads for pizza include a fresh Greek salad with baked feta. Also, a Caprese salad with bacon garlic dressing is great. Don’t forget an Orange and Fennel Beet Salad.
What types of roasted vegetables make good pizza companions?
Roasted veggies like crispy broccoli florets are perfect with pizza. Broccolini roasted with cheese is also a hit. These veggies add flavor and nutrition to your meal.
How can I prepare traditional garlic bread and Italian-style breadsticks to serve with pizza?
For garlic bread, sauté garlic in olive oil, mash it, and spread on bread. Then, bake until golden. Italian-style breadsticks can be made from pizza dough in about an hour. This gives you a pizzeria feel at home.
What types of fresh green salads pair well with pizza?
Refreshing green salads like a tangy arugula and white bean salad are great. A spinach salad with warm bacon dressing is also tasty. Kale Caesar salad with breadcrumbs is another good choice.
How can I prepare savory Brussels sprouts and green beans as pizza sides?
Roast Brussels sprouts until crispy, then add red pepper flakes and Parmesan. For green beans, wrap them in bacon with garlic and Parmesan. This makes a delicious side dish.
What are some unique and creative lettuce-based salads that pair well with pizza?
Try a romaine salad with radishes and oranges for a unique taste. Little Gem lettuce with watermelon radishes and pecorino is also interesting. Caesar Salad Bites in lettuce cups are a fun, pizza-friendly option.
How can I prepare prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears as a pizza side?
Wrap prosciutto around asparagus spears for a crispy, salty side. Cook until crispy. Serve with sauces or dips to enhance the flavor and match your pizza.
What are some unique ways to prepare artichokes as a pizza side dish?
Artichokes are a tasty side of pizza. Prepare them with a tangy dipping sauce. They’re great as an appetizer or side, adding variety to your pizza night.
How can I incorporate a colorful medley of seasonal cherry tomatoes as a pizza side?
A mix of cherry tomatoes in different colors and sizes is a vibrant side. It adds visual interest and diverse flavors. This simple side lets the tomatoes’ natural flavors shine, enhancing your pizza experience.
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