Pizza night. Just the words evoke images of cozy evenings, laughter with friends, and the comforting aroma of melting cheese and savory toppings. We all love pizza, it’s a universal favorite, a culinary canvas that adapts to countless tastes and preferences. But are you serving your pizza with the same old tired sides? Are you truly maximizing your pizza experience?
While pizza is undoubtedly a superstar on its own, the right accompaniments can elevate those flavors and create a truly complete, satisfying meal. It’s about crafting a symphony of tastes and textures that complement each other, making each bite even more delightful. Whether you’re ordering in or making your own masterpiece, exploring the world of pizza pairings can transform an ordinary meal into something special. From refreshing salads that cut through the richness to comforting appetizers that enhance the flavors, there’s a perfect pairing out there to satisfy every pizza craving.
Classic Appetizers and Sides
When it comes to pizza accompaniments, certain choices are timeless for a reason. They just work, plain and simple. Let’s delve into some classic options that perfectly complement the pizza experience.
Salad The Refreshing Counterpoint
Why does salad work so well with pizza? It’s all about balance. Pizza, especially the cheesy, saucy kind, can be quite rich. A crisp, fresh salad provides a welcome contrast, cleansing the palate and adding a lighter element to the meal. The acidity of the dressing can also cut through the richness of the pizza, creating a more harmonious experience. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables!
Caesar Salad
This is a classic for a reason. The creamy, garlicky dressing, the crisp romaine lettuce, and the salty Parmesan cheese create a delightful counterpoint to the savory pizza. It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors to start your meal right. The simplicity of a caesar salad makes it a great pairing with almost any pizza.
Greek Salad
Packed with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, along with salty feta cheese and tangy olives, a Greek salad adds a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your pizza night. The bright acidity of the dressing balances perfectly with the richness of the cheese and sauce. A perfect partner for a Mediterranean style pizza.
Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette
Don’t underestimate the power of simplicity. A basic green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can be incredibly refreshing. You can customize it with your favorite greens, vegetables, and herbs. Its versatility is its strength, easily adaptable to complement the toppings of your pizza.
Garlic Bread or Garlic Knots The Bread Buddies
Okay, we’re doubling down on the carbs here, but sometimes you just can’t resist! The appeal of pairing bread with pizza is undeniable. It’s comforting, familiar, and utterly delicious. Plus, who can resist soaking up that extra pizza sauce with a warm, garlicky piece of bread? The bread soaks up excess sauce and adds another layer of texture.
There are countless variations to explore. You could opt for cheesy garlic bread, infused with herbs like oregano and basil. Or, you could try garlic knots, those twisted bundles of dough that are perfect for dipping. It’s a carb lover’s dream come true, but is it really an indulgence when it tastes this good?
Mozzarella Sticks The Cheesy Duo
More cheese? Yes, please! There’s something inherently satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden-brown mozzarella stick and stretching that stringy, melted cheese. The ooey-gooey goodness of mozzarella sticks pairs perfectly with pizza, especially when dipped in marinara sauce. It’s a cheesy, comforting combination that’s hard to resist.
Ranch dressing is another classic dipping choice for mozzarella sticks, adding a creamy, tangy element to the experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, try dipping them in pesto for a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Unexpected and Elevated Pairings
Ready to step outside the box? These unexpected pairings will surprise and delight your taste buds, taking your pizza night to the next level.
Roasted Vegetables Healthy and Flavorful
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that complements pizza beautifully. It’s also a fantastic way to add a healthy element to your meal. The slight char from roasting also adds a unique textural element.
Roasted Asparagus
The slightly bitter, grassy flavor of asparagus provides a pleasant contrast to the richness of pizza. Roasting it brings out its sweetness and creates a tender, slightly charred texture. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before roasting adds an extra layer of savory goodness.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These miniature cabbages often get a bad rap, but when roasted properly, they’re absolutely delicious. Caramelized edges, a slightly nutty flavor, and a tender interior make them a surprisingly addictive side dish. A drizzle of balsamic glaze after roasting adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Roasted Bell Peppers and Onions
The sweetness of roasted bell peppers and onions pairs exceptionally well with savory pizza toppings. They can be roasted together with herbs like thyme and rosemary for an extra layer of flavor. This is a particularly great pairing with pizzas featuring sausage or mushrooms.
Soup The Comfort Food Combination
Soup and pizza? It might sound a little unusual, but trust us, it works! Especially during colder months, a warm bowl of soup can be incredibly comforting and satisfying. The soup can be a palate cleanser and even enhance the taste of the pizza.
Tomato Soup
This is a classic pairing for a reason. The tangy, slightly sweet flavor of tomato soup complements the tomato sauce on the pizza. A grilled cheese crouton on top adds an extra touch of comfort.
Minestrone
A hearty vegetable soup like minestrone adds variety and nutrients to your pizza meal. The mix of vegetables, beans, and pasta provides a satisfying and flavorful counterpoint to the pizza.
Creamy Vegetable Soup
For an extra dose of comfort, try a creamy vegetable soup. Broccoli cheddar, potato soup, or even a creamy tomato soup can be incredibly satisfying. The richness of the soup complements the savory flavors of the pizza.
Chicken Wings The Game Night Staple
Pizza and wings, is there a more iconic duo? This combination is a staple for game nights, parties, and casual gatherings. The bold flavors and satisfying textures of wings make them a perfect match for pizza. It’s a great way to offer something other than pizza.
Buffalo Wings
The classic spicy option. The tangy, vinegary heat of Buffalo wings pairs perfectly with a cheesy slice of pizza. A side of blue cheese dressing provides a cooling contrast to the heat.
Garlic Parmesan Wings
For a savory and flavorful alternative, try garlic Parmesan wings. The rich, garlicky sauce complements the cheesy goodness of the pizza.
BBQ Wings
The sweet and smoky flavors of BBQ wings add a different dimension to your pizza experience. The caramelized sauce and tender chicken create a satisfying and complementary contrast.
Dips and Sauces Beyond Marinara
Don’t limit yourself to just marinara sauce! A variety of dips and sauces can enhance the flavors of your pizza crust and toppings.
Ranch Dressing
A classic and versatile dipping sauce. Perfect for crusts, wings, and even some pizza toppings.
Blue Cheese Dressing
A tangy and flavorful option, especially with Buffalo wings and spicy pizzas.
Garlic Aioli
A creamy and flavorful dip for crusts or toppings. Adds a garlicky kick to any pizza.
Hot Sauce or Chili Oil
For those who like a spicy kick. Drizzle it on your pizza or use it as a dip for your crust.
Drinks to Pair With Pizza
Don’t forget the beverages! The right drink can complement the flavors of your pizza and enhance your overall dining experience.
Beer
The Classic Choice. A crisp lager can cut through the richness of the cheese, while an IPA pairs well with spicier pizzas.
Wine
An Elegant Option. Chianti is a classic pairing for tomato-based pizzas, while Pinot Noir complements mushroom pizzas.
Soda
The Refreshing Choice. A classic cola or lemon-lime soda can be a refreshing counterpoint to the savory flavors of the pizza.
Sparkling Water with Lemon or Lime
Light and refreshing, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime helps cleanse the palate between slices.
Dessert Sweet Endings
Complete your pizza night with a sweet treat.
Ice Cream
A classic and refreshing dessert, especially on a warm evening.
Brownies or Cookies
A warm and comforting option, perfect for sharing.
Cannoli
A traditional Italian dessert, filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.
In Conclusion
Pizza is a beloved food for good reason. It is simple, but also has a world of options to be paired with it. Pizza night doesn’t have to be just pizza. There’s a whole world of possibilities when it comes to finding the perfect accompaniments for your favorite pizza. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pairings and find what you love best. Whether you prefer a refreshing salad, a comforting soup, or a spicy wing, there’s a perfect side dish or appetizer out there to complete your pizza experience.
With a little creativity, you can create a truly memorable and delicious pizza experience that goes far beyond just ordering a pie. So, the next time you’re planning a pizza night, think beyond garlic knots and explore the exciting world of pizza pairings. Share your favorite pizza pairing with us in the comments! What is the ultimate food that goes with pizza for you?
