Pizza. The word itself conjures images of cheesy goodness, warm crust, and shared moments. It’s a culinary chameleon, adaptable to countless toppings and preferences. But let’s be honest: sometimes pizza needs a little something extra. It’s great on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes and drinks can elevate your pizza night from good to unforgettable. This isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating a complete and complementary dining experience.
The Classics: Time-Tested Pizza Companions
Some pairings are so iconic, they’re practically synonymous with pizza itself. They’ve earned their place at the table through sheer deliciousness and harmonious flavor profiles.
Salads: A Refreshing Counterpoint
A crisp, vibrant salad is a go-to choice for good reason. The fresh, often acidic notes of a well-dressed salad cut through the richness of the pizza, providing a welcome contrast. Consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing to cleanse the palate between slices.
A Caesar salad, with its creamy dressing and salty Parmesan cheese, also works beautifully, offering a different kind of complementary flavor. The crunch of croutons adds textural interest, further enhancing the experience.
For a slightly bolder option, explore Italian salads loaded with olives, tomatoes, and mozzarella. These salads echo the flavors of the pizza while still providing a refreshing element.
Garlic Bread: Doubling Down on Deliciousness
Why settle for just one type of baked dough when you can have two? Garlic bread is a universally loved side dish that complements pizza perfectly. The buttery, garlicky flavor enhances the savory experience.
Whether you prefer a classic baguette or a cheesy, herbed version, garlic bread adds a comforting and satisfying element to your pizza night. It’s also great for soaking up any leftover sauce!
Consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or Italian herbs to your garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor.
Wings: A Crowd-Pleasing Combination
Pizza and wings: it’s a match made in casual dining heaven. The saucy, savory, and often spicy nature of chicken wings offers a contrasting yet complementary flavor profile to the cheesy, doughy goodness of pizza.
Whether you prefer buffalo wings, BBQ wings, or even dry-rubbed wings, there’s a flavor to suit every taste. The heat from spicy wings can be balanced by the coolness of the pizza, creating a dynamic and satisfying meal.
Different wing sauces can pair better with different types of pizza. For example, a spicy buffalo wing pairs well with a simple cheese or pepperoni pizza, while a sweeter BBQ wing might complement a Hawaiian pizza.
Beyond the Usual: Unexpected Pizza Pairings
While the classics are always a safe bet, don’t be afraid to venture beyond the familiar and explore more adventurous pairings. You might be surprised at the delicious discoveries you make.
Vegetable Sides: Adding Nutrients and Flavor
Think beyond the basic salad and consider roasted vegetables as a sophisticated and healthy side dish. Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus can provide a delicious and nutritious counterpoint to the richness of the pizza.
The slightly caramelized flavor of roasted vegetables complements the savory notes of the pizza, while their textures add another layer of interest.
Grilled vegetables, like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, also offer a smoky and flavorful alternative.
Soups: Comforting and Complementary
A warm bowl of soup can be a surprisingly satisfying accompaniment to pizza, especially on a chilly evening. Tomato soup, with its bright acidity, is a natural pairing, echoing the flavors of the pizza sauce.
Other options include minestrone soup, with its hearty vegetables and pasta, or a creamy potato soup for a more indulgent experience. The soup provides a warming contrast to the slightly crisp crust of the pizza.
Consider the toppings on your pizza when choosing your soup. A mushroom soup might complement a pizza with mushroom toppings, while a spicy tortilla soup could pair well with a southwestern-style pizza.
Fruit: A Sweet and Savory Contrast
Don’t underestimate the power of fruit to complement pizza. A simple plate of sliced melon or grapes can provide a refreshing and palate-cleansing contrast to the savory flavors.
Grilled pineapple, often found as a pizza topping, can also be served as a side dish, offering a sweet and tangy counterpoint.
For a more sophisticated pairing, consider a cheese and fruit platter with a variety of cheeses, fruits, and nuts. The different flavors and textures will create a delightful and unexpected combination.
The Perfect Drinks to Complement Your Pizza
No pizza night is complete without the perfect beverage. The right drink can enhance the flavors of your pizza and create a truly satisfying dining experience.
Beer: A Classic Pairing
Beer and pizza are a classic combination for a reason. The crisp, refreshing nature of beer cuts through the richness of the pizza, while its subtle flavors can complement the toppings.
Lagers and pilsners are generally good all-around choices, while IPAs can stand up to spicier pizzas.
Consider the specific toppings on your pizza when choosing your beer. A lighter beer might pair well with a simple cheese pizza, while a darker beer could complement a meat-lover’s pizza.
Wine: An Elevated Experience
Wine might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of pizza, but the right wine can elevate your pizza night to a whole new level.
A light-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, is often a good choice for pizza.
For white wine lovers, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can also be a refreshing option.
The acidity of the wine helps to cut through the richness of the pizza, while its subtle flavors can complement the toppings.
Soft Drinks: Refreshing and Familiar
Sometimes, the simplest choices are the best. A cold soda, like cola or lemon-lime, can be a refreshing and satisfying accompaniment to pizza.
Sparkling water or iced tea are also good options, offering a lighter and less sugary alternative.
Consider offering a variety of soft drinks to cater to different preferences.
Considerations for Specific Pizza Types
The best pairings for your pizza night often depend on the specific type of pizza you’re serving. Different toppings and crusts call for different complementary flavors.
Pepperoni Pizza: The Classic Choice
Pepperoni pizza, with its savory, slightly spicy flavor, is a crowd-pleasing favorite. It pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks, including salads, garlic bread, beer, and red wine.
A crisp, refreshing salad with a vinaigrette dressing can help to cut through the richness of the pepperoni, while a cold beer can provide a satisfying contrast.
For a slightly more sophisticated pairing, consider a light-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir.
Vegetarian Pizza: Fresh and Flavorful
Vegetarian pizza, with its abundance of vegetables, calls for lighter and fresher pairings. A green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a plate of roasted vegetables can provide a delicious and nutritious complement.
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can also be a refreshing choice, highlighting the fresh flavors of the vegetables.
Consider a vegetarian soup, such as minestrone or tomato soup, for a warming and comforting option.
Meat-Lover’s Pizza: Hearty and Satisfying
Meat-lover’s pizza, with its generous toppings of various meats, requires bolder and more substantial pairings. Garlic bread, wings, and a dark beer or red wine can all stand up to the rich flavors of the pizza.
A hearty soup, such as chili or beef stew, can also be a satisfying accompaniment.
Consider a side of coleslaw or potato salad to provide a creamy and tangy contrast to the savory meats.
Dessert: The Sweet Finale to Your Pizza Feast
While technically not a “side dish,” dessert is an essential part of any complete meal, and pizza night is no exception.
Ice Cream: A Classic Treat
Ice cream is a universally loved dessert that provides a cool and refreshing contrast to the warm, savory pizza.
Vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry are all classic choices, but don’t be afraid to experiment with more adventurous flavors.
Consider serving ice cream with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of nuts for an extra touch of indulgence.
Brownies or Cookies: Sweet and Satisfying
Brownies or cookies are another popular dessert option that pairs well with pizza. Their sweet and chocolatey flavors provide a satisfying ending to the meal.
Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream for an even more decadent treat.
Consider offering a variety of brownies or cookies to cater to different preferences.
Fruit Salad: A Light and Refreshing Option
For a lighter and healthier dessert option, consider a fruit salad. The fresh, juicy fruits provide a refreshing and palate-cleansing ending to the meal.
Include a variety of fruits, such as melon, grapes, berries, and pineapple, for a colorful and flavorful dessert.
Consider adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of granola for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
Ultimately, the best pairings for your pizza night are the ones that you and your guests enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things until you find your perfect combination. Happy eating!
What are some classic non-alcoholic beverage pairings for pizza?
Classic non-alcoholic pairings for pizza often focus on beverages that cleanse the palate and complement the flavors of the pizza toppings. Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime offers a refreshing and bubbly counterpoint to rich, cheesy pizzas. Iced tea, particularly unsweetened or lightly sweetened versions, provides a crisp and slightly tannic quality that balances the acidity of tomato sauce and the saltiness of meats.
Another excellent option is a well-made lemonade. The citrus notes in lemonade cut through the richness of the pizza, while the sweetness adds a pleasant contrast. For a more complex flavor profile, consider Italian sodas with various fruit syrups, which can be tailored to match the specific toppings on your pizza, such as a raspberry soda for a pizza with mushrooms and onions.
What wines pair best with a Margherita pizza?
Margherita pizza, with its simple yet vibrant flavors of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce, calls for light and refreshing wines that won’t overpower its delicate profile. A crisp Italian white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, is an excellent choice. Its subtle citrus and floral notes complement the flavors of the pizza without being too assertive. Another great option is a dry rosé wine, especially one from Provence. Its light fruitiness and refreshing acidity work well with the tomato and cheese.
If you prefer red wine, opt for a light-bodied, fruity red with low tannins, such as a Beaujolais or a young Chianti. These wines offer a bright acidity and subtle fruit flavors that harmonize with the pizza’s ingredients. Avoid heavy, oaky reds that could overwhelm the delicate balance of the Margherita pizza.
How can I pair beer with pizza depending on the toppings?
Pairing beer with pizza is all about matching the beer’s characteristics with the dominant flavors of the toppings. For a classic pepperoni pizza, a hoppy IPA can cut through the grease and spice, while its bitterness provides a refreshing contrast. Lighter beers like lagers and pilsners work well with pizzas that have lighter toppings, such as vegetables or white sauce bases, as they won’t overwhelm the flavors.
If you’re enjoying a pizza with rich, savory toppings like sausage or mushrooms, consider a darker beer like a brown ale or a stout. These beers have more body and complexity, which can stand up to the bold flavors of the toppings. For a pizza with spicy toppings, like jalapeños or chili flakes, a crisp, light beer can help to cool the palate and provide a refreshing contrast to the heat.
Are there any unique cocktail pairings for pizza beyond the standard beer and wine?
Absolutely! Cocktails can offer a creative and exciting alternative to beer and wine when pairing with pizza. A classic Negroni, with its balance of bitter, sweet, and herbaceous notes, can complement a pizza with complex flavors, such as one featuring olives, artichokes, and prosciutto. Its slightly bitter finish cleanses the palate between bites.
For a more refreshing option, consider a Cucumber Gimlet. The coolness of the cucumber and the tartness of the lime provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pizza, making it a great pairing for pizzas with creamy sauces or salty toppings. A well-made Margarita can also work wonders, especially with pizzas that have a bit of spice or a Southwestern flavor profile.
What are some cheese and charcuterie board elements that complement a pizza night?
A cheese and charcuterie board can elevate a pizza night by offering a variety of flavors and textures that complement the pizza. Include a mix of hard and soft cheeses, such as Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, mozzarella, brie, and goat cheese, to provide different levels of richness and tanginess. Add some cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni to echo and enhance the meaty flavors of certain pizzas.
Don’t forget the accompaniments! Olives, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and marinated mushrooms provide briny, savory, and earthy notes that pair well with a variety of pizza toppings. Crackers, breadsticks, and crostini offer a textural contrast to the soft cheeses and meats. Finally, include some sweet elements like honey, fig jam, or grapes to balance the savory flavors and add a touch of sweetness.
How do you pair desserts with pizza, considering it’s a savory dish?
Pairing desserts with pizza requires considering the contrasting flavors and textures. After a savory pizza, a light and refreshing dessert is often the best choice to cleanse the palate. Italian desserts like tiramisu or cannoli offer a familiar connection to the Italian theme while providing a delightful sweetness and creamy texture that contrasts with the savory pizza.
Alternatively, a simple fruit-based dessert, such as a fruit tart or a bowl of fresh berries with a dollop of whipped cream, can provide a refreshing and light ending to the meal. For a more decadent option, consider a rich chocolate mousse or a slice of cheesecake, but be sure to choose a portion size that won’t feel too heavy after the pizza.
What are some tips for creating a balanced pizza pairing experience?
Creating a balanced pizza pairing experience involves considering the overall flavor profile of the meal and selecting pairings that complement and contrast the pizza’s flavors. Think about the dominant tastes – sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami – and choose pairings that either enhance or balance those flavors. For example, if your pizza is rich and savory, opt for a beverage or side dish that is refreshing and acidic to cut through the richness.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new combinations! Consider the occasion and the preferences of your guests. Offer a variety of options to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of discovering new and exciting pairings that elevate your pizza night to a truly memorable experience.