Could this be the ultimate guide to complementary sides for pizza? We invite you to explore our expert insights, as we're nearly Michelin-star foodies who know a thing or two about elevating pizza experiences. Trying to turn your average and somewhat boring pizza night into something with a little more pizzaz (see what we did there)? Whether you're throwing a grand pizza party, enjoying a wholesome family dinner, or just snuggling up for a cozy Netflix and chill night in, the right side dishes can make a regular night a little more exciting.
So, what to serve with pizza? Before we dive into the garlic knots and wings (oh yes, they’re coming!), let’s set the scene. Picture this: a table laden with your favorite pizza, surrounded by the most tempting sides, with all your favorite people ready to dig in. Sounds perfect, right? Well, you're just a few sides away from making this dream a reality.
Setting the Scene for Pizza Night
We all know that pizza has Italian roots, and we thank the Italians for their invention of the iconic bready, saucy, and tasty global entree. Today, Americans consume billions of slices of pizza each year, and it's become a household staple for dinners, game nights on TV, quick and easy meals with the family, and everything in between. They call it a “pizza party” because everyone loves pizza, and it’s a party of flavors when you take your bite! But what goes with pizza? Imagine this: A stack of hot pizzas, each a different topping choice. What are some things that should go with this food saucer? Should it be surrounded by bowls of crispy garlic knots and platters of spicy wings (yes, of course)? Should there be a veggie platter nearby? The key to a great pizza night is variety. Pizza accouterments should not just be about adding a side. Pairing good side dishes is supposed to be a palate cleanser with different textures, different food groups, and different flavor profiles to complement the main event. So, let’s get to it and introduce the ultimate sidekicks for your pizza—starting with the crowd-pleasers: garlic knots and wings!
What to Serve With Pizza: The Classic Sides
Nothing says pizza night like the mouth-watering aroma of garlic knots and the tantalizing sight of saucy wings. These classic sides are classics for a good reason: they have survived the test of time and are often paired with pizza.
Garlic Knots: The Ultimate Comfort Food
- Why We Love Them: What goes with pizza better than incredible homemade garlic knots? Soft, buttery, and bursting with garlic flavor, these little knots of joy are the perfect nibble between pizza slices. They soak up flavors and add a lovely textural contrast when done right.
- Make It at Home: Whip up your own garlic knots with just a few simple ingredients. Start with pre-made pizza dough, roll it into ropes, tie it into knots, and bake. Once golden, toss them in a mix of melted butter, fresh garlic, parsley, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Voilà! You’ve got yourself a garlicky side that Dracula wishes he could bite into.
Wings: A Flavour Fiesta
- Why We Love Them: Wings bring the heat and the sweetness to pizza night. Whether you're a fan of classic Buffalo sauce, barbecue, or something more adventurous like mango habanero, wings are the go-to for an added kick.
- Make It at Home: There are millions of recipes for making wings at home, but a simple one is to mix baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add dry wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mix. Bake or air fry at 400 degrees F until the internal temperature is safe at 165 degrees F. Toss the wings in the sauce of your choice, and you’re ready for liftoff. Want great wings without the wait? Visit your nearest 7-Eleven to pick up Hot Honey Boneless Wings and many more delicious eats for your party!
Refreshing Salads to Cleanse the Palate
What to serve with pizza after a bite of rich, savory pizza and spicy wings? A fresh salad can be a welcome refreshment! Salads bring balance to your meal with their crisp textures and light, zesty dressings. Pizza isn’t exactly known for being the healthiest of foods, and a well-crafted salad is often paired to keep the meal fresh, especially since pizza is mostly bread and cheese! Here are some classy salad options:
Classic Caesar Salad
- Why It Works As Sides for Pizza: What goes with pizza better than a scrumptious Caesar salad? The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad complement the cheesy goodness of pizza without overpowering it. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a more substantial side.
- Make It at Home: You can order most Caesar salads with your pizza order, but this classic salad is actually very simple to make at home! All you have to do is get a Caesar salad kit at your local grocery store and toss salad dressing with parmesan and croutons. Pro tip: toss the salad with parmesan, croutons, and dressing in the final moments before serving to keep it all nice, crisp, and fresh. No one loves a soggy salad!
Vibrant Greek Salad
- Why It Works: The freshness of cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions, combined with the saltiness of feta and olives, offers a delightful contrast to the umami and fat of pizza.
- Make It at Home: Like the Caesar salad, you can use a Greek salad kit to make your life easier. Follow the instructions on the package and use a dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano to marinate the veggies slightly before serving; this enhances their flavors and fits perfectly with Mediterranean or veggie pizzas.
What to Serve With Pizza: Veggie Delights
For far too long, meat lovers have been getting all the attention at pizzerias; what about the humble veggie loves? When it comes to pizza night, don't let your esteemed veggie guests miss out on a great pizza party time. After all, vegetable sides are not only a healthier side option but can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Here are a couple of veggie delights that will impress even the most devoted carnivores:
Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Why They’re Great: Stuffed bell peppers are easy to make and can make you look like a trained chef to the untrained eye (in this case, most likely your untrained guests). With the right preparation, these peppers can be colorful and nutritious, and they can be prepared ahead of time.
- Make It At Home: Slice bell peppers in half and remove the core and seeds. Be creative with your stuffing, and add a mixture of quinoa, mushrooms, onions, and a touch of cheese. You can also add some meat if you want to stray away from a fully vegetarian side for pizza.
Grilled Veggies
- Why They’re Great: What goes with pizza better than grilled veggies? Grilled veggies are simple to make, creatively flexible, and can be quickly grilled or baked to serve with your bready and cheesy pizzas. The balancing of smoky or baked veggies helps with the salt and acidity of pizza sauces. Your guests can also add these bonus veggies to the pizza if they’re anarchists.
- Make It At Home: The easiest way to grill veggies at home as a side for pizza is to toss a veggie medley in some high smoke point oil with salt, pepper, and garlic and bake at 400 degrees until cooked through.
Less Than Ordinary Sides for Pizza
If you’ve got the time and culinary skills to make them, these next sides are for you. After all, why settle for the usual when you can make your pizza night truly stand out with some unexpected side dishes? These unique options will surprise and delight your guests, proving that creativity in the kitchen can lead to delicious discoveries.
Mini Sliders
- Why They’re Great Sides for Pizza: Who says you can’t mix pizza with burgers? Mini sliders are a fun and hearty addition that guests won’t expect but will definitely enjoy. Regular burgers are too big and might be too much food, so minis are the way to go!
Taco Bites
- Why They’re Great Sides for Pizza: Bite-sized tacos bring a festive twist to your gathering. They're easy to eat and pack a punch of flavor that complements the zestiness of pizza. While not a direct fusion of Italian with Hispanic cultures, having mini taco bites will definitely supplement a great pizza.
Roasted Asparagus
- Why They’re Great Sides for Pizza: Roasted asparagus is not an exclusive side dish for pizza, but it’s still a great option. Asparagus is extremely tasty, and this can be as easy or difficult as you want it to be when choosing seasoning and cooking methods.
Dipping Sauces and Seasonings: The Secret Weapons
Did you know that in Japan, it’s common to add mayonnaise to their pizza? It sounds weird, but they might be on to something! The moral of that story is that condiments and sauces might surprise you, and no pizza night is complete without a variety of dipping sauces and a sprinkle of magical seasonings. These add-ons are not just extras; they transform each bite into a new experience.
By integrating these side dish options and flavor-enhancing dips and seasonings, your pizza night will cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone at the table has a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Presentation Tips: Impress Your Guests
Last but not least, let’s talk about presentation. It’s true that people eat first with their eyes, and the way you present the food can turn a simple meal into a spectacular feast. Here are some tips to help you impress your guests with your presentation skills:
- Create a Theme: Whether it’s an Italian night or a retro pizza parlor vibe, choose a theme and decorate your table to match. Use colorful tablecloths, fun plates, and even themed napkins.
- Arrange Creatively: Place the pizza at the center, surrounded by sides, in various-sized bowls and platters. Height variations can add interest, so consider using cake stands or tiered servers for smaller items.
- Personal Touches: Add small handwritten labels or signs that describe each dish. This not only helps guests know what they’re eating but also adds a personal touch to your spread.
- Don’t Forget the Drinks: Be sure to have a range of drinks for guests to quench their thirst. Try adding unique soda options or cold-pressed juices from 7-Eleven.
By integrating these sides for pizza and presentation tips, you not only diversify the pizza meal but also enhance the overall dining experience.
24/7 Pizza from 7-Eleven
As we close the curtains on this guide to creating the ultimate pizza night experience, it's clear that the side dishes you choose can elevate an ordinary pizza into a culinary adventure. From the hearty satisfaction of garlic knots and wings to the refreshing crunch of salads and the inventive twist of mini sliders and taco bites, your pizza night can transform into a delightful feast that caters to every palate.
Now, it's your turn to take these ideas and run with them. Load up your table with these tasty sides, gather your favorite people, and dive into a night of good food and great company. By incorporating these unexpected twists and focusing on presentation, your pizza night will be anything but ordinary. Need some awesome pizza on the fly? Download the app and find the nearest 7-Eleven for amazing pizza!
