Pizzas are a staple food for many people and are often served for dinner or as a quick snack. While pizzas themselves can be filling, it’s always nice to have some side dishes to go along with them to make the meal complete. Side dishes can add variety to the meal, balance out flavors, and provide additional nutrients.
There are many different types of side dishes that can be served with pizzas, including salads, garlic knots, bread sticks, vegetables, dips, sauces, and snacks. Each type of side dish offers its own unique flavor and texture, making it easy to find the perfect pairing for any type of pizza.
This article will explore the different types of side dishes that can be served with pizzas and provide detailed information on each one, including recipes, tips, and tricks. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing salad, something to dip your pizza in, or a snack to munch on while waiting for your pizza, there’s sure to be a side dish in this article that you’ll love.
The Ultimate Guide to Side Dishes for Pizza Lovers
1. Salads
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad made with Romaine lettuce, croutons, parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. This salad is simple and flavorful, making it the perfect side dish for any type of pizza.
- Greek Salad: A hearty salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. The addition of red wine vinegar and olive oil creates a tangy dressing that pairs well with rich, cheesy pizzas.
- Caprese Salad: A simple and fresh salad made with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. This salad is a great way to get your daily dose of fresh produce and is a light and refreshing side dish for any type of pizza.
- Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens and vegetables, including lettuce, carrots, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. This salad is a great option for those who want to add more vegetables to their meal and is perfect for topping with a light vinaigrette or dressing.
- Spinach Salad: A healthy and delicious salad made with fresh spinach, bacon, red onions, and a hard-boiled egg. The addition of bacon and egg makes this salad a filling and satisfying side dish for any type of pizza.
2. Garlic Knots
- Garlic knots are a classic side dish that is easy to make and perfect for dipping into marinara sauce. They are made with pizza dough that is tied into knots and brushed with a garlic butter glaze.
3. Bread Sticks
- Cheesy Garlic Bread Sticks: Soft, chewy bread sticks that are brushed with garlic butter and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. These breadsticks are a great option for those who love garlic and cheese.
- Parmesan Herb Bread Sticks: Crispy and flavorful bread sticks that are brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with parmesan cheese and herbs. These breadsticks are perfect for dipping into marinara sauce or for eating on their own.
- Sesame Seed Sticks: Soft and chewy bread sticks that are brushed with garlic butter and topped with sesame seeds. These breadsticks are a fun and crunchy alternative to traditional breadsticks.
- Rosemary and Olive Oil Sticks: Soft and chewy bread sticks that are brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with fresh rosemary. These breadsticks are a simple and flavorful option for those who love the taste of rosemary.
4. Vegetable Side Dishes
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, that are roasted in the oven until they are tender and caramelized. Roasted vegetables are a great option for adding more fiber and vitamins to your meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, that are grilled until they are charred and tender. Grilled vegetables are a great option for adding a smoky flavor to your meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: A mix of vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and green beans, that are steamed until they are tender and crunchy. Steamed vegetables are a healthy and flavorful side dish for any type of pizza.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, that are stir-fried with a variety of seasonings and sauces. Stir-fried vegetables are a quick and easy side dish that can be made in minutes.
5. Pasta Side Dishes
- Pasta Salad: A mix of cooked pasta, vegetables, and a light dressing. This dish is a great option for those who want a filling side dish that can be made in advance.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A classic side dish made with elbow macaroni and a creamy cheese sauce. This dish is a great option for those who love cheese and want a comforting side dish for their pizza.
- Spaghetti with Meat Sauce: A classic dish made with spaghetti noodles and a hearty meat sauce. This dish is a great option for those who want a filling and satisfying side dish for their pizza.
- Fettuccine Alfredo: A rich and creamy pasta dish made with fettuccine noodles and a sauce made from cream, parmesan cheese, and garlic. This dish is a great option for those who love cream and cheese.
6. Rice Side Dishes
- Spanish Rice: A flavorful and aromatic rice dish made with saffron, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. This dish is a great option for those who want a spicy and flavorful side dish for their pizza.
- Fried Rice: A classic Asian dish made with cooked rice, vegetables, and a variety of seasonings and sauces. This dish is a great option for those who want a filling and flavorful side dish for their pizza.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A light and flavorful rice dish made with cilantro, lime, and garlic. This dish is a great option for those who want a fresh and light side dish for their pizza.
- Basmati Rice: A long-grain rice that is known for its light and fluffy texture. This rice is a great option for those who want a plain and simple side dish for their pizza.
7. Baked Potatoes
- A classic side dish that is simple and satisfying. Baked potatoes are a great option for those who want a filling and comforting side dish for their pizza.
8. Mashed Potatoes
- A classic and comforting side dish made with boiled potatoes, milk, butter, and salt. Mashed potatoes are a great option for those who want a filling and creamy side dish for their pizza.
9. Chips and Dips
- Potato Chips: Thin and crispy chips that are perfect for dipping into a variety of dips and sauces.
- Tortilla Chips: Thick and crunchy chips that are perfect for dipping into salsa, guacamole, or cheese dip.
- Pita Chips: Thin and crispy chips that are perfect for dipping into hummus or tzatziki sauce.
- Carrot and Celery Sticks: Fresh and crunchy sticks that are perfect for dipping into ranch dressing or any other type of dip.
10. Beverages
- Soft Drinks: A classic and refreshing drink that is perfect for pairing with any type of pizza.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing and flavorful drink that is perfect for pairing with any type of pizza.
- Lemonade: A sweet and tangy drink that is perfect for pairing with any type of pizza.
- Beer: A cold and refreshing drink that is perfect for pairing with any type of pizza.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many delicious and satisfying side dishes that can be paired with any type of pizza. From salads and garlic knots to baked potatoes and beverages, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a filling and comforting one, the options are endless.
When choosing side dishes for your pizza, consider the flavors and ingredients of the pizza you are serving. For example, if you are serving a spicy pizza, a pasta salad or rice dish can help to balance the heat and cool your mouth. On the other hand, if you are serving a cheese and meat-heavy pizza, light and crunchy side dishes like a green salad or fresh vegetable sticks can help to lighten things up.
When it comes to cooking side dishes, the possibilities are endless. You can choose to cook something simple and classic like mashed potatoes, or get creative and try something new like a pasta salad with unique ingredients. You can also make your side dishes ahead of time, making it easier to serve your guests when the time comes.
In addition to choosing delicious side dishes, it is important to also consider portion size. When serving side dishes with pizza, it is best to keep the portions small, so that your guests are not too full and can still enjoy their pizza. You can also consider serving your side dishes in smaller bowls or dishes so that your guests can easily portion out what they would like.
Overall, the perfect side dishes for pizza are those that complement the flavors of the pizza and add to the overall dining experience. With so many delicious options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect side dishes to complete your pizza feast!
