What To Serve With Pizza (30+ Best Side Dishes)
Pizza is a favorite comfort food loved by people of all ages. Whether you’re having a pizza party, a casual dinner, or a cozy night in, pizza is always a crowd-pleaser.
While pizza may be the star of the show, it’s always nice to have some delicious side dishes to go with it.
And, if you’re looking for some pizza side dishes, you’ve come to the right place. I collected the best side dishes to serve with pizza. From classic Italian chopped salad and garlic knots to more unique options like grilled romaine and crispy buffalo cauliflower, these side dishes will take your pizza dinner to the next level.
So, let’s dig in and discover the perfect accompaniments to your favorite pizza recipe.
Looking for a quick answer? Here are my favorite sides for pizza.
Some of the best side dishes to serve with pizza are Italian chopped salad, Caesar salad, arugula salad, pesto pasta salad, garlic knots, baked zucchini fries, roasted broccoli, kale salad, air fryer mozzarella sticks, crispy buffalo cauliflower, caprese salad skewers, brussels sprouts salad, antipasto platter, spinach artichoke dip, roasted zucchini, oven-roasted vegetables, roasted brussels sprouts, garlic green beans, roasted eggplant, greek salad, buffalo chicken wings, chicken skewers, jalapeno poppers, shishito peppers, roasted sweet potato wedges, grilled romaine, cucumber salad, roasted red peppers, grilled asparagus, garlic parmesan roasted potatoes, and roasted cherry tomatoes.
1. Italian chopped salad
Pizza is a beloved main course that can be served with a variety of side dishes. One of my favorite options is a classic Italian chopped salad.
This side salad is made with fresh greens, tangy red onion, and a light lemon vinaigrette dressing. It’s a great way to balance out the richness of a cheese pizza or to add some freshness to heavy pizza toppings and other popular sides like buffalo wings or onion rings.
Plus, the Italian salad is a healthy side option that pairs perfectly with a slice of pizza and is super easy to make.
We love: Italian Chopped Salad (CPK Copycat) (by Chelsea’s Messy Apron)
2. Caesar salad
No pizza night is complete without a tasty side dish to complement the cheesy slices. And what better side dish than a classic Caesar salad?
The creamy dressing, tangy flavors, and crunchy croutons add a nice balance to the rich and savory pizza. Plus, it’s an easy side dish to make while your pizza is baking in the oven (or being delivered).
For those looking for a gluten-free option, this Caesar salad can easily be made without croutons. It’s a perfect side that everyone can enjoy, and it adds a refreshing element to every bite of pizza.
We love: Caesar Salad Recipe (by Spend With Pennies)
3. Arugula salad
When it comes to pizza, a light and refreshing side dish is the perfect complement. That’s where an arugula salad comes in. The fresh and peppery greens are a great contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the pizza.
Toss in some parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, and a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing for a delicious and easy side dish. This pizza side dish is not only tasty, but it also adds some much-needed greens to your meal.
We love: Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette (by Julie Blanner)
4. Pesto pasta salad
Pizza and pesto pasta salad are a match made in heaven.
The fresh and tangy flavors of the pasta salad perfectly complement the rich and savory taste of pizza. Plus, it’s an easy and quick side dish to whip up while your pizza is on its way.
This side dish is also great for picky eaters, as it is kid-friendly and can be customized with their favorite vegetables or proteins. It also pairs well with different types of pizza, whether it’s a classic pepperoni or a gourmet pizza.
So, the next time you’re planning a pizza night, don’t forget to add pesto pasta salad to the menu. It’s a surefire hit with everyone at the table.
Try more pasta salad side dishes to complete your meal.
We love: Pesto Pasta Salad (by Love From The Oven)
5. Garlic knots
Garlic knots are a delicious side dish to serve with pizza. These bread rolls are coated in a garlic and herb butter, making them a flavorful addition to any pizza dining experience. And, there’s a reason why they’re such a popular side dish at Italian restaurants, they’re also utterly delicious!
Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or even use them to make mini garlic bread pizzas.
We love: Homemade Garlic Knots (Recipe + Video) (by Sally’s Baking Addiction)
6. Baked zucchini fries
Pizza is a classic and crowd-pleasing main course, and adding a delicious side dish can take your pizza dinner to the next level. One great option is baked zucchini fries.
Not only are these fries a healthier alternative to classic French fries, but they also pair well with a variety of pizza toppings like tomato sauce, sausage, and mushrooms.
And for a refreshing balance, serve with a green salad or spinach salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. Give this perfect pizza side dish a try the next time you’re looking for side dishes for pizza!
We love: Super Crispy Zucchini Fries – Baked in the Oven (by Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons)
7. Roasted broccoli
Roasted broccoli is a versatile and delicious side dish that goes well with any type of pizza.
The crispy texture and savory flavors of the roasted broccoli complement the rich and cheesy flavors of pizza. Plus, it adds a healthy and nutritious element to your meal.
Serve it with a cheesy blue cheese sauce if you’re feeling a bit extra.
We love: The BEST Crispy Oven-roasted Broccoli (by Baking Mischief)
8. Kale salad
A refreshing kale salad is a great side dish to serve with your favorite pie if you’re after a healthier alternative to classic sides like French fries.
The earthiness of the kale and the tanginess of the lemon zest balances out the richness of the pizza. Plus, adding some bell peppers or goat cheese to the salad can complement the flavors of your pizza even more.
For a quick and easy flavor boost, serve your salad with a store-bought Caesar dressing or ranch dressing.
We love: Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad (by Peas and Crayons)
9. Air fryer mozzarella sticks
Air fryer mozzarella sticks are the perfect side dish to serve with pizza. These crispy and gooey cheese sticks are always a hit!
With the air fryer, you can easily make homemade mozzarella sticks with fresh mozzarella, and they are ready in just a few minutes. The crunchy exterior and gooey cheese make for a perfect pairing with a cheesy pizza.
And if something went wrong with your pizza dough, these air fryer mozzarella sticks are a great way to still enjoy a cheesy pizza experience. Serve them with a side of marinara or ranch dip for a finger food feast.
We love: Crispy Homemade Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks (by Barefoot In The Pines)
10. Crispy buffalo cauliflower
There’s nothing better than a hot and cheesy pizza, but adding a refreshing and flavorful side dish can take your meal to the next level. That’s where crispy buffalo cauliflower comes in!
With its tangy and spicy flavor, it’s still deliciously indulgent. But it also happens to be plant-based. It pairs perfectly with the heavy pizza and adds a refreshing element to your meal.
Serve it with a creamy dipping sauce or alongside a refreshing fruit salad for a balanced and delicious meal.
We love: Crispy Cauliflower Wings (by Life Made Sweeter)
11. Caprese salad skewers
If you want something that stands out on pizza night, look no further than Caprese salad skewers!
These refreshing salad skewers are a perfect finger food appetizer or side dish for any pizza, especially homemade pizza. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil pairs perfectly with the tangy tomato-based pizza sauce.
We love: Caprese Salad Skewers Recipe (by Cubes N Juliennes)
12. Brussels sprouts salad
Why not try to add a few veggies to pizza night with a Brussels sprouts salad? It’s is the perfect addition to your dinner table.
This salad recipe is a match made in heaven with any type of pizza, especially something meaty and salty like pepperoni pizza or Italian sausage pizza. It’s a refreshing and light option to balance out those rich umami flavors.
We love: Raw Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe (by Two Peas & Their Pod)
13. Antipasto platter
An antipasto platter is the perfect side dish to serve with pizza, providing a wide array of delicious flavors and textures that complement the pizza perfectly. It also makes a great appetizer to feed a crowd!
The platter typically includes cured meats, cheeses, olives, and vegetables. And, it comes together quickly, making it an easy and simple side to impress everyone at your next pizza night.
We love: Antipasto Platter (by The Mediterranean Dish)
14. Spinach artichoke dip
If you’re looking for a side dish that pairs perfectly with pizza, look no further than a creamy and delicious spinach artichoke dip.
This amazing side dish adds extra flavor to your meal and complements the flavor profile of pizza. Originally posted as a dip for chips, it’s also a great option to serve alongside pizza, chicken wings, or a simple salad.
This Italian-style dip is a great way to add flavor to those last pizza crusts.
We love: Crazy Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip (by Momsdish)
15. Roasted zucchini
Roasted zucchini is a simple and delicious plant-based side dish that pairs perfectly with hot pizza.
The crispy and peppery bite of the zucchini adds a spicy kick to balance out the rich flavors of the pizza. To elevate this dish, toss the roasted zucchini in a zesty lemon vinaigrette or, for a special occasion, top it with crispy prosciutto.
This is also a great option for a next-day meal, as the zucchini can be made ahead and served cold alongside a wedge salad or Italian antipasto platter.
We love: Easy Roasted Zucchini (by Baking Mischief)
16. Oven-roasted vegetables
For those who love savory pizza, oven-roasted vegetables are a must-try side dish.
The roasted veggies add a depth of flavor that pairs well with any type of pizza. Plus, the variety of veggies in this dish makes it a healthier option compared to other popular pizza side dishes like potato salad or French fries.
Feel free to experiment with different veggies and herbs to create a dish that complements your favorite slice of pizza. This is also a great option for those with dietary restrictions, as it is both gluten-free and vegetarian.
We love: This is the BEST oven roasted vegetables recipe! (by Diethood®)
17. Roasted Brussels sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts is a versatile dish that pairs well with pizza. The crispy texture and caramelized umami flavor of the roasted sprouts are the perfect complement to the cheesy and sometimes spicy sauce of pizza.
For a simple side, toss the sprouts with some olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper before roasting in the oven. Or, for a more elevated side dish, add a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese.
This easy homemade side dish can also be made in an air fryer for a quicker cooking time.
We love: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts (by Eatwell101)
18. Garlic green beans
Garlic green beans make a delicious and healthy side dish to serve with pizza. They are easy to make and add some extra greens and nutrients to your meal.
Simply saute the green beans in a buttery garlic sauce. You can also sprinkle some Italian herbs and pecorino romano for extra flavor. This side dish goes well with any type of pizza, whether it’s a traditional pepperoni or a mushroom pizza topped with fresh veggies.
We love: Garlic butter sauteed green beans (by Berry & Maple)
19. Roasted eggplant
Looking for the perfect Italian side dish to serve with your ultimate pizza? Look no further than roasted eggplant. While it’s not the first pizza side you think of, it’s an excellent choice to add more veggies to pizza night!
For a more indulgent side dish, top it with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella. Then broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly. And, for a complete meal, add some roasted asparagus spears or a Greek salad with ruby red tomatoes and a simple red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard dressing.
We love: Garlic & Herb Grilled Eggplant (by Every Last Bite)
20. Greek salad
Greek salad is a versatile side dish that goes well with pizza, no matter what your favorite pizza flavors are.
The tangy and salty feta cheese in a Greek salad pairs perfectly with the umami flavors of cured meats often found on pizza. And, the crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and sprinkle of Italian seasoning add a refreshing and flavorful touch to your pizza dinner.
Additionally, the light and fresh elements of a Greek salad are a great way to balance out the heavier and richer components of a pizza, making it a great side dish to have on the table.
We love: Best Greek Salad (by Downshiftology)
21. Buffalo chicken wings
This classic American finger food is a delicious option if you’re looking for an easy yet indulgent side.
The bold and spicy flavors of the chicken wings perfectly complement the cheesy and savory aspects of pizza, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Plus, buffalo chicken wings are a staple at pizza nights and can be enjoyed buffet-style with a variety of toppings, from classic hot sauce to tangy BBQ.
We love: Crispy Buffalo Wings (by Nicky’s Kitchen Sanctuary)
22. Chicken skewers
Chicken skewers are another delicious and versatile chicken dish to serve alongside your favorite pizza.
Not only do they add some protein to your meal, but they also pair wonderfully with any flavor of pizza.
We love: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers (by Sailor Bailey)
23. Jalapeno poppers
Jalapeno poppers are a fantastic appetizer or finger food to serve with pizza. These spicy, cheesy bites add a satisfying crunch and spicy kick to the meal.
Whether you’re hosting a pizza party, looking for a simple side dish, or feeling adventurous, jalapeno poppers are a great addition to any meal. They are also a great last-minute option to serve with pizza, as they can be easily made in an air fryer or on a sheet pan in the oven.
We love: Jalapeno Poppers with Bacon (by Natasha’s Kitchen)
24. Shishito peppers
Shishito peppers are a great side dish to serve with pizza. These mild and flavorful peppers are a great way to add a little extra kick to your meal.
Simply toss them in some olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting them in the oven. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the blistered shishito peppers.
Not only does this dish add a whole new dimension to your classic pizza, but it’s also a simple side that packs a punch.
We love: Blistered Shishito Peppers with Soy Garlic Sauce (by Girl With The Iron Cast)
25. Roasted sweet potato wedges
The sweetness pairs well with the savory flavors of pizza, and the crispy texture of the wedges makes them the perfect side dish. Plus, they are simple to make and can be cooked in the oven or even an air fryer.
Season your sweet potato wedges with some garlic powder and Italian herbs for a flavor boost. Serve them with a side of spinach artichoke dip or a bowl of sour cream. While I love roasted sweet potato wedges, regular crispy potato wedges will work just as well!
We love: Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges (by Two Peas & Their Pod)
26. Grilled romaine
Grilled romaine is a unique and delicious side dish to pair with pizza. The slightly charred leaves and fresh ingredients create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Not to mention, it’s a lighter alternative to traditional pizza sides like garlic bread or mozzarella sticks. Customize your simple salad with toppings like pine nuts, parmigiano reggiano, and a zesty Italian vinaigrette.
We love: Grilled Romaine With Lemony Vinaigrette (by Live Eat Learn)
27. Cucumber salad
This light and refreshing salad is a great way to balance out the heaviness of a cheesy, greasy pizza.
The crisp and cool cucumbers, paired with a tangy yogurt dressing or a fresh dill vinaigrette, provide a refreshing contrast to the hot and savory pizza. Plus it’s a super simple salad you can pull together faster than a homemade pizza takes to cook!
We love: Creamy Cucumber Salad (by Budget Bytes)
28. Roasted red peppers
Roasted red peppers are an excellent choice for a refreshing side to serve with pizza. The combination of sweet and smoky flavors adds a delicious contrast to the savory pizza.
Not only do they taste great, but they also add a different texture to the meal, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Serve them as a simple vegetable side dish dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette, or add them to an antipasto salad.
We love: Roasted Red Peppers (by Kristine’s Kitchen)
29. Grilled asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a perfect addition to any pizza night. Not only is it a healthy vegetarian side, but it also adds a fresh and vibrant element to the meal.
The charred and slightly crispy texture of grilled asparagus pairs well with the rich cheese and savory toppings on pizza. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and salty feta cheese, then drizzle generously with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Serving alongside a slice of pizza, grilled asparagus is a great way to balance out the richness of the pizza and add some extra crunch to the meal.
We love: Lemon and Feta Grilled Asparagus (by Closet Cooking)
30. Garlic parmesan roasted potatoes
Pizza is a classic favorite, but sometimes we crave something a little different to go with our melty mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce. That’s where garlic parmesan roasted potatoes come in – they’re a whole new way to enjoy your pizza meal!
These crispy, flavorful potatoes are a great option for pizza sides. The garlic butter and parmesan flavors pair well with Italian pizza, whether it’s a plain cheese pizza or a more elaborate prosciutto pizza.
We love: Roasted Garlic Butter Parmesan Potatoes (by Eatwell101)
31. Roasted cherry tomatoes
Looking for a delicious side dish to pair with your hot pizza? Look no further than roasted cherry tomatoes!
Not only do they add a pop of color and flavor to your meal, but they also pair perfectly with any type of pizza, from classic New York slices to unique homemade creations.
Simply toss the cherry tomatoes in olive oil, garlic, and herbs, and roast them in a preheated oven until they burst with flavor. The sweet umami flavor of the tomatoes pairs beautifully with the rich and robust flavors of pizza, either as a side dish or a delicious pizza topping!
We love: Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe (by A Spicy Perspective)
32. Authentic Italian meatballs and tomato sauce
It’s no secret that pizza and meatballs go hand in hand, but have you ever considered serving them as a side dish? Authentic Italian meatballs and tomato sauce make for a mouthwatering accompaniment to any pizza.
The savory flavors of the meatballs and the tangy sweetness of the tomato sauce perfectly complement the rich and cheesy flavors of a pizza. Plus, it’s a great way to add some protein to your meal and make it more filling.
And let’s not forget the convenience factor—meatballs and tomato sauce can easily be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it a stress-free and delicious side dish option for any pizza night.
We love: Authentic Italian Meatballs and Tomato Sauce (by No Plate Like Home)
Frequently asked questions
Pizza is a beloved dish around the world that can be customized with endless toppings and flavors. But the perfect pizza side dish will complete the meal and leave everyone smiling!
No matter what combination you choose, these simple ingredients will enhance the flavors of your pizza and add a crispy, flavorful exterior to your meal. So next time you’re enjoying a slice or two of the best pizza, don’t forget to include the perfect side dish.
Which of these best side dishes to serve with pizza are you making tonight?
