21 Perfect Pizza Sides to Try Tonight
Side dishes for pizza bring variety and balance, turning a casual meal into a complete dining experience. These sides offer fresh flavors and contrasting textures, from crisp salads to warm, savory bites, complementing pizza’s richness.
Each option brings out the best in pizza, adding a refreshing or hearty element that rounds out the meal. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, these sides make pizza night feel a bit more special.
With options that satisfy different tastes, these sides enhance the enjoyment of every slice. Here’s a list of 21 best side dishes for pizza to complete your spread:
Antipasto Salad
Antipasto salad is a refreshing take on classic Italian fare, featuring an array of colorful vegetables that replace traditional pasta. This dish shines with its versatility, allowing you to incorporate your favorite seasonal produce while keeping it keto-friendly.
Flavorful olives and tangy cheeses often complement the mix, adding depth without unnecessary carbs. The beauty lies in its adaptability; feel free to swap ingredients based on what’s fresh or available in your kitchen.
With this salad by your side, every pizza night becomes a delightful culinary adventure that balances flavors beautifully.
Soup
Soup is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with pizza, creating a satisfying meal experience.
Offering an array of flavors and textures, it complements the cheesy richness of your favorite slices effortlessly.
From classic American tomato soup to hearty homemade chili or traditional Italian minestrone, there’s something for every palate.
For those craving more Italian flair, meatball soup serves as an excellent companion to your pie.
Fruit
Fruit serves as an excellent accompaniment to pizza, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of cheese and spices.
This delightful side requires minimal effort; you can simply chop up your favorite fruits like grapes, pineapple slices, or apple wedges for a quick prep.
Incorporating citrus options such as orange wedges not only enhances taste but also adds a burst of color to your plate.
The natural sweetness and juiciness of fruit complement savory pizzas beautifully while providing balance in flavor profiles.
Ratatouille
Ratatouille stands out as a flavorful vegetable dish that pairs exceptionally well with pizza.
This vibrant medley features zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes simmered in olive oil to create a rich sauce that's both inviting and satisfying.
Its fresh ingredients make it an effortless option for anyone looking to add nutrition without sacrificing taste.
Kids who typically shy away from vegetables might find this dish more appealing thanks to its savory sauce that complements various pizza styles beautifully.
Cannoli
Cannoli are delightful Italian pastries that offer a sweet conclusion to any pizza night.
These crispy shells, traditionally filled with rich ricotta cream, bring an exquisite balance of texture and flavor.
Preparing cannoli can be streamlined by using store-bought shells or you could craft your own dough from simple ingredients for an authentic touch.
The filling is straightforward to whip up, allowing ample time for party prep without stress.
Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a refreshing accompaniment that perfectly complements pizza with its crisp greens and rich, tangy dressing. Anchovy-infused flavors in the homemade dressing create a delightful contrast to the savory taste of your favorite pie.
Including fresh romaine adds a satisfying crunch while ensuring you get some nutritious veggies alongside your meal. Pairing this classic salad with garlic breadsticks enhances the experience, offering an enjoyable combination of textures and tastes on your plate.
For added depth, grating parmesan cheese over top brings everything together beautifully for an unforgettable side dish.
Jalapeno Poppers
Jalapeno poppers are an exciting appetizer that adds a spicy kick to any pizza night. These stuffed jalapenos, often filled with cream cheese and topped with crispy bacon or breadcrumbs, deliver a delightful contrast to your main dish.
Baking these savory bites at home is simple, but you can also find pre-made options for convenience; either way, they’re sure to impress. Pairing them with pizza not only enhances the flavor experience but also creates the perfect late-night snack option when cravings strike.
For those looking to make it healthier, incorporating some vegetables into the filling can bring added nutrition without sacrificing taste.
Turkey Meatballs
Turkey meatballs are a fantastic accompaniment to pizza, offering a hearty yet lighter option.
Their satisfying texture complements the cheesy goodness of your favorite pie, making them an excellent choice for any meal.
Crafting homemade turkey meatballs is straightforward and allows you to tailor spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences perfectly.
While alternatives like beef or sausage can be used, opting for turkey ensures that you enjoy flavorful bites without overwhelming richness.
Garlic Cheese Bread
Garlic cheese bread pairs beautifully with pizza, delivering an enticing burst of flavor that enhances any meal. Its distinctive characteristic lies in the perfect blend of rich garlic and melty cheese, creating a savory treat that's hard to resist.
Whether you choose to whip up your own dough or opt for a convenient store-bought Italian loaf, this side dish guarantees satisfaction. You can elevate the experience by serving it alongside marinara sauce for dipping, a delightful addition that complements both the bread and your favorite pizza.
With minimal effort required, garlic cheese bread stands out as a go-to choice when hosting gatherings or simply enjoying a cozy night in with friends.
Onion Rings
Onion rings serve as a crispy and satisfying companion to pizza, offering a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of your favorite pie.
Air-frying these treats not only reduces oil usage but also delivers an equally delicious result without the mess of traditional frying.
Serving them alongside marinara sauce adds a tasty dipping option, enhancing their appeal for gatherings or family dinners.
For those pressed for time, pre-made onion rings can be quickly reheated in the oven, making this snack both convenient and enjoyable.
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Spinach artichoke dip is a creamy delight that pairs perfectly with pizza, featuring a rich blend of cheese and savory flavors. Known for its irresistible taste, this dish invites you to enjoy it alongside crunchy bread or fresh vegetables, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Tortilla chips make an excellent alternative as dippers too; versatility adds to the fun at any gathering. Feel free to get adventurous by using your pizza crusts in the dip, it's all about indulgence here!
With how quickly this appetizer disappears, preparing an extra batch seems like a wise decision if you're hoping for seconds later on.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables offer a delightful complement to pizza, enhancing your meal with their natural flavors and appealing textures. This dish stands out for its simplicity and healthy appeal, allowing you to enjoy vibrant veggies without excess calories.
Preparing them in the oven is straightforward; whether you choose fresh produce or convenient frozen options, it’s easy to elevate your dining experience. These nutritious sides cater perfectly to health-conscious guests while ensuring everyone at the table finds something they love.
With roasted vegetables by your side, you're set for an enjoyable pizza night that brings both taste and wellness together seamlessly.
Italian Bruschetta Bar
An Italian bruschetta bar is an interactive dining option that allows everyone to craft mini sandwiches using fresh ingredients, showcasing the rich flavors of Italy in each bite.
Utilizing store-bought bread simplifies preparation, letting you focus on an array of vibrant toppings like diced tomatoes, basil, and tangy olives.
Engaging your guests can take this experience further by encouraging them to vote for their favorite creations, adding a fun twist to the meal while discovering popular flavor combinations among friends or family gatherings.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing companion to pizza, enhancing the meal with its crunchy texture.
This dish harmonizes beautifully with the rich flavors of cheese and toppings, providing a delightful contrast that many appreciate.
Preparing coleslaw is straightforward; simply whisk together a zesty dressing over fresh vegetables for an easy side that can be made in advance.
Whether served alongside your favorite slices or used creatively as a topping, it adds an unexpected twist to traditional pizza night.
Zucchini Fries
Zucchini fries are a crispy alternative to traditional French fries that pair wonderfully with pizza.
These light yet satisfying treats bring a fresh twist to your meal while complementing the rich flavors of cheese and marinara sauce effortlessly.
Preparing zucchini fries can be as simple as reaching for frozen options if you're short on time, or you can whip up your own from scratch for an added touch of creativity.
Dipping them in homemade marinara not only enhances their taste but also elevates the overall dining experience.
Mozzarella Sticks
Mozzarella sticks are a timeless companion for pizza, offering a satisfying crunch that complements cheesy slices. Preparing these golden delights ahead of time allows you to enjoy stress-free entertaining when it’s meal time.
Served alongside zesty marinara sauce, they create an inviting experience that everyone looks forward to sharing. Crafting homemade mozzarella sticks can turn into an enjoyable family activity, where the joy of frying meets gooey cheese perfection.
Alternatively, purchasing them from the store offers convenience without straining your budget or preparation time while still delivering on taste and satisfaction.
Pasta Salad
Pasta salad serves as a refreshing counterpart to your pizza feast, bringing a cool and satisfying touch to the meal.
This versatile dish offers endless possibilities for customization with various ingredients, ensuring that each serving can be unique.
You can easily whip up pasta from scratch or grab convenient pre-made options from the store, allowing you more time to enjoy your gathering.
Packed with veggies and flavors, it holds its own as either a side or main course choice.
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that captivates with its rich layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone. Renowned globally, this indulgence perfectly complements any pizza feast.
Preparing it in advance means you can focus on enjoying the gathering rather than rushing around at the last minute. Though it requires about four hours to set, the ease of making tiramisu ensures you’ll impress your guests without stress.
When served, its delightful flavors will surely spark conversation and admiration among everyone present.
Mango Sorbet
Mango sorbet is a refreshing frozen dessert that acts as the ideal palate cleanser after indulging in cheesy pizza. This treat stands out for its tasty flavor and smooth texture, offering a delightful contrast to savory dishes.
You can whip it up quickly with just a few ingredients, making it an effortless addition to your meal prep. Having mango sorbet stored in your freezer means you're always ready for a light and invigorating finish to any gathering or casual dinner night.
With its tropical notes, this simple dessert elevates your dining experience without much fuss involved.
Potato Salad
Potato salad complements pizza features tender potatoes mixed with crunchy vegetables like red onion, cauliflower, or roasted broccoli, offering a refreshing balance to your cheesy slice.
You can easily personalize the recipe; incorporating unique ingredients allows you to express your culinary creativity while enhancing flavor profiles.
Serving potato salad alongside various appetizers creates endless pairing possibilities for gatherings and meals alike.
Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are a classic companion for pizza, bringing a satisfying crunch and flavor explosion to the table. Preparing them at home allows you to adjust the spice levels according to your taste, whether opting for mild or fiery heat.
Creativity shines through with various seasoning options like garlic powder or chili flakes that enhance their appeal during baking. The versatility of chicken wings extends beyond just flavors; they pair wonderfully with an array of sauces such as ranch, barbecue, hot sauce, or even marinara for those seeking simplicity.
With this crowd favorite on the side, every meal becomes more memorable and enjoyable.