Pizza night is sacred. But what salad goes with pizza to elevate your meal from good to unforgettable? Let’s explore this flavorful journey together.
Imagine a Caesar salad with crispy romaine and tangy dressing, perfectly balancing a pepperoni slice. Or a vibrant Greek salad with olives and feta, cutting through the richness of a cheesy pizza. These combinations not only enhance flavors but also bring a refreshing contrast to the table.
In this article, you’ll discover the best salads that pair beautifully with your favorite pizza. We’ll dive into vegetable sides that add crunch, unique salad options that surprise your palate, and seasonal favorites that make every bite a delight. You’ll also get tips on storing and reheating these sides to keep them fresh and delicious.
Get ready to transform your pizza nights with salads that hit all the right notes.
What Salad Goes with Pizza
| Salad Type | Ingredients | Dressing | Flavor Profile | Best Pizza Pairing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caesar Salad | Romaine, Croutons, Parmesan | Caesar Dressing | Creamy, Savory | Pepperoni, Cheese |
| Greek Salad | Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Olives, Feta | Olive Oil & Oregano | Tangy, Fresh | Margherita, Veggie |
| Caprese Salad | Tomatoes, Mozzarella, Basil | Balsamic Glaze | Fresh, Herbal | Margherita, White |
| Arugula Salad | Arugula, Parmesan, Lemon | Lemon Vinaigrette | Peppery, Light | Meat Lovers, Cheese |
| Spinach Salad | Spinach, Red Onions, Cherry Tomatoes | Light Vinaigrette | Tender, Subtle | Sausage, Supreme |
Types of Sides to Pair with Pizza
Vegetables and Salads
Ah, vegetables and salads! The unsung heroes that can turn any pizza night into a symphony of flavors. A great salad can elevate the entire meal, providing that necessary contrast to the cheesy, savory goodness of a pizza. So, what salad goes with pizza? Let’s dive in.
Roasted Vegetables are a fantastic option. Picture this: crispy Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection with a hint of maple syrup, or perhaps a tray of zucchini, air-fried until golden and tender. The caramelized edges and soft interiors create a delightful textural contrast to a crunchy pizza crust.
Steamed, Raw, or Sautéed Sides are another versatile category. Think about the vibrant green of sautéed broccoli, lightly seasoned with garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice. The balance of freshness and slight bitterness cuts through the richness of the pizza.
Finger Foods and Appetizers
When it comes to appetizers, the world is your oyster. Finger foods and small bites not only complement the main event but also keep your guests engaged and satisfied.
Dips and Spreads are a must-have. Imagine a creamy ranch dip made with a yogurt and mayonnaise base, served with crisp carrot sticks and bell pepper slices. Or perhaps an olive tapenade, brimming with robust flavors, perfect for spreading on crispy crostini.
Bites and Skewers add an element of fun. Caprese skewers, for instance, with basil, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, offer a burst of freshness in every bite. Mozzarella bites, fried to a golden crisp and served with marinara sauce, are the epitome of comfort food.
Detailed Side Dish Recipes
Salads
Kale Salad
- Best Kale Salad: A hearty base of kale, massaged with lemon and garlic dressing to soften the leaves and enhance the flavors.
- Lemon and Garlic Dressing: This simple yet powerful dressing, with its tangy lemon juice and robust garlic, ties everything together.
Chopped Salad
- Homemade Italian Dressing: A zesty blend of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, this dressing is the perfect companion to a chopped salad.
- Key Ingredients: Shallots, cucumber, tomato, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan make this salad a crowd-pleaser.
Strawberry Salad
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: A sweet and tangy vinaigrette that brings out the best in the fresh strawberries.
- Red Onions and Toasted Almonds: These add a delightful crunch and a hint of sharpness to balance the sweetness.
Vegetable Sides
Sauteed Broccoli
- Recipe Variations: Whether steamed or boiled, broccoli is a versatile side. But when sautéed, it gains an extra depth of flavor.
- Parmesan and Lemon Juice Toppings: These toppings add a savory and zesty kick, making the broccoli irresistible.
Brussels Sprouts
- Roasted with Maple Syrup: The natural sweetness of the maple syrup complements the earthy flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
- Sautéed with Parmesan and Garlic: A savory twist that enhances the sprouts’ natural flavors.
Zucchini
- Air Fryer Zucchini: Lightly breaded and air-fried to a crisp, these are a healthier alternative to fries.
- Roasted and Sautéed Variations: Both methods bring out the zucchini’s subtle flavors and pair well with any pizza.
Unique Salad Options
Radicchio Salad
- Pears, Almonds, Goat Cheese: The bitterness of radicchio, the sweetness of pears, the crunch of almonds, and the creaminess of goat cheese create a symphony of flavors.
- Citrus Vinaigrette: A refreshing dressing that ties all the ingredients together.
Endive Salad
- Juicy Orange and Red Wine Vinaigrette: The bright, juicy oranges and the tangy vinaigrette make this salad a standout.
- Parmesan and Almonds: Add a touch of umami and crunch.
Fennel and Orange Salad
- Seasonal Preparation Tips: Fennel’s crunchy texture and anise-like flavor are enhanced by the sweetness of seasonal oranges.
- Fresh and Crunchy Texture: This salad is a refreshing palate cleanser.
Finger Foods and Appetizers
Skewers and Bites
Caprese Skewers
- Ingredients: Basil, tomatoes, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze come together in these easy-to-eat skewers.
- Presentation Tips: Arrange them on a platter for an eye-catching appetizer.
Mozzarella Bites
- Frying Techniques: Perfecting the golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside molten and cheesy.
- Serving with Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing that never fails to delight.
Dips and Spreads
Ranch Dip
- Yogurt and Mayonnaise Base: This creamy dip is a healthier alternative to traditional ranch.
- Serving Suggestions: Carrot sticks, bell peppers, and more for a colorful and tasty platter.
Olive Tapenade
- Ingredients and Preparation: A robust blend of olives, capers, and anchovies, finely chopped.
- Serving with Crostini: Spread it on toasted bread slices for an irresistible bite.
Seasonal and Special Occasion Sides
Summer Sides
Peach and Burrata Caprese Salad
Summer screams for something fresh, something vibrant. Enter the Peach and Burrata Caprese Salad. Juicy peaches, sliced and mingling with heirloom tomatoes. This isn’t just any salad—it’s a masterpiece. The burrata? Creamy, dreamy, pulling everything together. It’s like a bite of summer sunshine. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, maybe a touch of balsamic glaze. The flavors meld into something magical.
Fruit Skewers
Simple yet stunning. Seasonal fruits on skewers. Think watermelon, cantaloupe, strawberries, blueberries. The colors alone are a feast for the eyes. Easy to prepare, just chop and thread. A platter of these at a summer gathering? Instant hit. They’re refreshing, light, and the perfect palate cleanser between slices of pizza.
Winter Sides
Fennel and Orange Salad
Winter needs brightness. Fennel and Orange Salad delivers. Sweet, juicy oranges paired with the subtle anise flavor of fennel. A drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt. This salad is fresh and crunchy, a necessary contrast to hearty winter dishes. When those seasonal oranges are at their peak, this salad shines.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts get a holiday makeover. Roasted until crispy, with a maple syrup vinaigrette. The sweet and savory dance together, making each bite a delight. Holiday serving suggestions? Pile them high on a platter, maybe with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and tartness. The perfect side for those rich holiday meals.
When it comes to what salad goes with pizza, these seasonal and special occasion sides offer a burst of freshness and flavor, complementing every slice perfectly.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
Complementing Rich and Cheesy Pizzas
When you’ve got a pizza loaded with ooey-gooey cheese, rich toppings like pepperoni or sausage, you need a side that cuts through all that decadence. Think light and refreshing salads.
Arugula salad with a squeeze of lemon and shaved Parmesan is perfection. The peppery bite of the arugula and the acidity from the lemon complement the richness of the pizza, making every bite feel balanced.
Then there’s Caprese salad. Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. The burst of freshness from the tomatoes and the herby kick from the basil provide a beautiful counterpoint to a cheesy slice.
But don’t stop at salads. Tangy and bitter vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts with a balsamic reduction or sautéed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes bring a whole new dimension. They add a slightly bitter, tangy contrast that cuts through the heaviness, making the whole meal feel lighter.
Enhancing Light and Simple Pizzas
When your pizza is more on the minimalist side—think a classic Margherita or a simple white pizza—you have room to get creative with heartier sides.
Savory and rich appetizers fit the bill here. Mozzarella bites fried to golden perfection, served with a robust marinara sauce, add a crunchy, gooey texture that enhances the simplicity of the pizza. Or maybe Caprese skewers with juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze for a burst of freshness.
Hearty and flavorful vegetables are also a fantastic match. Consider zucchini—whether air fried until crispy or sautéed with a bit of garlic and olive oil. These preparations add a satisfying texture and depth of flavor that plays well with a lighter pizza.
Even something like a Chopped salad with homemade Italian dressing, featuring crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp shallots, can add a robust texture and a burst of fresh flavor that makes each bite of pizza feel more dynamic.
Balancing flavors and textures is key when figuring out what salad goes with pizza. Whether you’re complementing a rich, cheesy pizza or enhancing a lighter one, the right sides can transform your meal into a harmonious feast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Side Dishes
When it comes to storing those delicious side dishes that pair so well with pizza, the key is in the details. Airtight containers are your best friends here. Whether it’s a vibrant kale salad or sautéed broccoli, sealing in the freshness is crucial.
For salads, especially those dressed with vinaigrette like a Greek salad or Caprese salad, store the dressing separately. This keeps the greens crisp and the flavors fresh. Mix them together just before serving to avoid soggy leaves.
Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or zucchini? They can go straight into an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge, and they’ll stay good for a few days, retaining their texture and flavor.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Let’s talk about refrigeration. The goal is to keep those sides just as tasty as when they were first made. Salads and veggies need to be kept cool, ideally below 40°F. This slows down any spoilage and keeps everything crisp and fresh.
A fennel and orange salad with its juicy citrus and crunchy fennel, should be stored in the coldest part of the fridge. For something like mozzarella bites, make sure they’re sealed tight to maintain their crispy exterior and gooey center.
Reheating Methods
Reheating is where things can get tricky, but with a few tips, you can bring your side dishes back to life.
Microwave Reheating is quick but can make some foods soggy. For vegetable sides like sautéed broccoli, use a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This steams the veggies slightly, keeping them moist without drying them out.
Stovetop and Oven Techniques work wonders for most sides. Roasted Brussels sprouts? Pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. They’ll crisp up nicely. For air-fried zucchini, a quick toss in a hot pan can bring back that delightful crunch.
When it comes to dips and spreads, like a ranch dip or olive tapenade, no need to reheat. Just let them come to room temperature, and they’re good to go.
Knowing how to store and reheat your side dishes ensures that your meal remains delicious, whether you’re eating it fresh or a couple of days later. So next time you’re pondering what salad goes with pizza, you can confidently prepare and preserve a variety of sides, ready to enhance your pizza night at a moment’s notice.
FAQ on What Salad Goes With Pizza
What salad goes with pizza?
A Caesar salad pairs wonderfully with pizza. The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the savory flavors of the pizza. Add a sprinkle of parmesan, and you’ve got a match made in heaven. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Can you serve a Greek salad with pizza?
Absolutely! A Greek salad with its fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese brings a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the rich, cheesy pizza. The olive oil and oregano dressing ties everything together beautifully, making it a great choice.
What about a Caprese salad?
A Caprese salad is an excellent choice. The combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a refreshing contrast to the pizza. This simple yet flavorful salad adds a burst of freshness to your meal.
Is an arugula salad a good option?
Definitely! An arugula salad with its peppery leaves and light lemon vinaigrette provides a vibrant, slightly bitter contrast to the pizza’s richness. Add some shaved parmesan for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a fantastic, light complement to any pizza.
How about a spinach salad?
A spinach salad works great. Toss fresh spinach with red onions, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The tender leaves and subtle flavors enhance the pizza without overwhelming it. It’s a delightful, healthy option that pairs beautifully with your favorite slice.
What salads are best for kids?
Kids love simple, familiar flavors. A garden salad with lettuce, cucumbers, carrots, and a mild ranch dressing is usually a hit. It’s colorful, crunchy, and easy to eat. Plus, it introduces them to the joys of fresh veggies alongside their beloved pizza.
Can you serve a chopped salad?
Yes, a chopped salad is a versatile choice. Diced cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and a tangy Italian dressing create a refreshing, crunchy side. Add some crumbled feta or shredded cheese, and you have a robust salad that pairs perfectly with pizza.
What’s a good winter salad for pizza?
A fennel and orange salad is ideal for winter. The crunchy fennel and sweet, juicy oranges bring a refreshing balance to the hearty, warm flavors of winter pizzas. Drizzle with a light citrus vinaigrette to tie it all together. It’s a seasonal delight.
Are there any unique salads to try?
Try a radicchio salad with pears, almonds, and goat cheese. The bitter radicchio, sweet pears, and creamy goat cheese create a complex, exciting flavor profile. Toss with a citrus vinaigrette for a unique side that complements pizza perfectly.
How can I make my salads more exciting?
Add interesting toppings. Think roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or zucchini. Incorporate fresh herbs, nuts, and cheeses. Experiment with different dressings, like balsamic or lemon vinaigrette. These additions can elevate a simple salad, making it a standout side for your pizza night.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect answer to what salad goes with pizza transforms your meal into a culinary experience. The right salad can elevate flavors, balance textures, and add a refreshing twist.
Whether it’s a Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing, a Greek salad bursting with fresh vegetables and tangy feta, or an adventurous radicchio salad with pears and goat cheese, each option brings something unique to the table.
Consider the seasonal favorites like a fennel and orange salad for winter, providing a sweet and crunchy complement to hearty pizza slices.
Or the simplicity of a garden salad for a kid-friendly addition. Don’t forget the versatility of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or zucchini, adding depth and excitement to your meal.
Incorporate these ideas, and your pizza nights will never be the same. Dive into the world of salads and discover how they can transform and enhance every bite of your favorite pizza.