Best Side Dishes to Serve with Pizza for Your Next Gathering
Looking for the best side dishes to serve with pizza?
These delicious, quick, and easy sides pair perfectly with any type of pizza, from cheese and pepperoni to veggie-loaded slices.
Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or planning your next pizza party, these amazing side dishes will round out your pizza meal with flavors that complement every slice.
Pizza is always a go-to easy meal, but the best pizza dinners are elevated with the right sides.
Whether you’re serving thin crust pizza or homemade pizza with all your favorite toppings, a good side dish will make your meal complete.
From fresh salads to hearty roasted vegetables, there are plenty of side dish ideas that pair well with pizza.
Ceasar Salad
A Caesar salad is the perfect side dish to serve with pizza. The crunch of romaine lettuce, the saltiness of parmesan, and the creaminess of Caesar dressing all balance the richness of a cheesy slice of pizza.
Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and serve. Add croutons and extra parmesan for that classic side dish feel.
Arugula Salad
For a lighter, refreshing side dish, an arugula salad is a simple yet flavorful choice. Toss fresh arugula with a drizzle of olive oil, a splash of lemon juice, and shaved parmesan.
This salad side dish brings a peppery bite that goes well with pizza, especially a vegetable pizza or cheese pizza.
Garlic Bread
An all-time favorite pizza side dish, garlic bread is an easy side that both kids and adults will love. Make it quick by toasting mozzarella-topped bread slices drizzled with garlic butter.
Pop your garlic bread in the oven at 350 degrees for 8 minutes until it is lightly toasted. Sprinkle with sea salt to finish.
These cheesy and garlicky flavors make this a perfect appetizer to serve with pizza at your next pizza night.
Cucumber Salad
A cucumber salad is great if you’re looking for a healthy side dish that’s cool and crisp. Combine sliced cucumbers with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a light vinaigrette to contrast the rich pizza flavor.
This vegetarian side dish is the perfect side to add a light crunch to your pizza meal.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a fantastic side for pizza, especially if you’re serving a heartier pizza like sausage pizza or pepperoni pizza.
Roast zucchini, bell peppers, and onions with a drizzle of olive oil and herbs. Roast in the oven at 400 degrees for 30 minutes. This pizza pairing adds a nutritious element to your pizza night.
Pasta Salad
A pasta salad is an easy, make-ahead side dish that pairs well with pizza. Combine your favorite pasta with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette.
For best results, refrigerate it a few hours ahead of your dinner to let the flavors marinate! This hearty yet fresh dish is one of the best sides to serve alongside a pizza!
Mozzarella Sticks
For a fun appetizer with pizza, mozzarella sticks are always a hit! Serve them with a side of marinara for dipping, and you’ve got an irresistible side dish that complements the cheesy goodness of pizza.
Caprese Salad
For a light yet satisfying salad recipe, try a Caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
This classic side dish works beautifully with a simple margarita pizza or any homemade pizza.
Pecan and Spinach Salad
This delicious side dish combines fresh spinach, pecans, and a light vinaigrette. The mix of crunchy and tender textures pairs well with the rich flavors of pizza dough and toppings. Add some parmesan for extra flavor!
Zucchini Fritters
For a more substantial pizza side dish, zucchini fritters are a perfect option. Made with grated zucchini, parmesan, an egg and a touch of flour, fritters are crispy and flavorful.
You can pop them in the air fryer for a quick crisping. They’re a fun way to add veggies to your pizza dinner without sacrificing taste!
Notes/Tips/Possible Substitutions:
- Perfect Pairings: Pair vegetable pizza with lighter sides like green salads or cucumber salad, while heartier pizzas like pepperoni and sausage pizza go great with rich sides like garlic bread and mozzarella sticks.
- Pizza night tips: These side dishes are easy to prepare, making them perfect for casual pizza dinners or larger pizza parties!
These 10 amazing side dishes are sure to be a hit at your next pizza night. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing salad or a heartier pizza side dish, these options will complete your meal with ease!
