What Goes With Pizza in 2025? 9 Picks for the Family!

Pizza is a real crowd-pleaser, but the right pairings make it even better. Whether you're looking for a refreshing side, a simple dipping sauce, an indulgent treat, the right match can enhance every bite.

I’ve collected 9 great recipes to put with pizza. From crisp salads to savory appetizers, the perfect accompaniments balance the richness of pizza while adding new layers of flavor. Whether you’re serving up a classic Margherita or a meat-lovers feast, these delicious options will help you discover what goes best with pizza.

All the recipes on this page are carefully crafted by our team, including our in-house nutritionist, who also calculates the nutritional information provided. While we strive for accuracy, please note that actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

1. Creamy & Zesty Garlic Aioli

🧑‍🍳 Method

For homemade emulsification version:

1. Blend eggs, garlic, and apple cider vinegar in a food processor until smooth.

2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until the mixture thickens into a creamy aioli.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, add capers for extra zest.

If using store-bought mayonnaise:

1. Mix mayonnaise, garlic, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.

2. Adjust seasoning and consistency as desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

🔍 Overview

Garlic aioli is the perfect dip for pizza! It adds a rich, garlicky depth that supercharges the naturally indulgent flavors of crust and toppings. The balance of tangy vinegar and smooth olive oil complements the cheese and tomato sauce, creating a contrast that makes each bite more indulgent.

I love making this at home because it’s a healthier alternative to heavy, store-bought dressings. Using fresh garlic and olive oil provides antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, while the homemade version skips unnecessary additives. Keep in mind that it is still pretty heavy on calories – even with healthy olive oil.

2. Mediterranean Bean & Chickpea Salad With Feta & Parsley

🧑‍🍳 Method

1. In a large bowl, combine kidney beans, chickpeas, and chopped parsley.

2. Crumble feta cheese over the mixture.

3. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar.

4. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

5. Toss everything together and serve immediately or let it marinate for a few hours for extra flavor.

🔍 Overview

Bean & chickpea salad with feta is a fresh, protein-packed side that pairs well with pizza. The creamy feta, zesty vinegar, and fragrant parsley balance the richness of cheese and sauce, while the beans and chickpeas add a hearty, satisfying bite.

I love making this salad because it’s packed with fiber and protein, keeping me full without feeling weighed down. The olive oil and feta provide healthy fats, while the beans add plant-based protein. It’s also super quick to prepare, perfect for when I want something nutritious with minimal effort.

3. Basil Pesto & Mozzarella Focaccia Pizza

🧑‍🍳 Method

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Place the basil pesto & mozzarella focaccia flatbread on a baking sheet.

3. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese is melted.

4. Remove from the oven, slice, and serve.

🔍 Overview

This is a quick, no-fuss meal that delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. The pesto adds a herby richness that pairs perfectly with the melted mozzarella, and the focaccia flatbread provides a soft, slightly crispy base. It’s great for when you don’t have much time but still want something tasty.

I love this recipe for its simplicity and flavor. The combination of basil pesto and mozzarella offers a deliciously balanced bite, and the focaccia flatbread gives it a hearty feel without being overly heavy. It’s a perfect meal for busy days when I need something comforting but quick!

4. Caprese Salad With Balsamic Glaze & Fresh Basil

🧑‍🍳 Method

1. Arrange tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving tray.

2. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the tomato and cheese slices.

3. In a small saucepan, heat balsamic vinegar and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir until the mixture thickens into a glaze.

4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the arranged tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

5. Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.

🔍 Overview

Caprese salad is a perfect companion for pizza, offering a light, fresh contrast to the richness of cheese and tomato sauce. The tangy balsamic glaze complements the creamy mozzarella, while the ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil balance the indulgent flavors of pizza. 

I love this easy recipe because it’s not only quick to make but also healthy and satisfying. The combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides essential vitamins, protein, and healthy fats – and it’s a refreshing side that enhances your pizza without feeling overly filling.

5. Mushroom & Onion White Pizza With Hot Honey & Arugula Salad

🧑‍🍳 Method

1. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).

2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a sheet pan.

3. In a large nonstick pan, sauté mushrooms, red onion, and garlic over medium heat until softened.

4. Spread a layer of béchamel sauce over the pizza dough, then top with sautéed mushrooms, onion, and garlic.

5. Add mozzarella cheese, prosciutto (if using), and drizzle with honey.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is melted.

7. While the pizza bakes, toss arugula, chopped cipollini onions, apple slices, chives, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

8. Once the pizza is done, remove from the oven and top with the arugula salad. Slice and serve.

🔍 Overview

Adding spicy hot honey to your pie makes for a gourmet pizza night! The sweetness of the honey and the bite of crushed red pepper bring a bold contrast to the creamy sauce and fresh mozzarella, making every bite indulgent. The arugula salad adds a crisp, refreshing element that balances the richness of the pizza.

This recipe is a fun way to elevate a pizza night with a unique blend of flavors. The combination of the hot honey with savory mushrooms and the fresh arugula salad makes it an exciting meal. It’s also packed with protein and healthy fats, thanks to the prosciutto, mozzarella, and olive oil.

6. Simple Caesar With Bacon Bits, Lemon, & Croutons

🧑‍🍳 Method

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Lay the bacon slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until crispy.

3. Remove bacon from the oven, let it cool, and chop into small bits.

4. In a large mixing bowl, toss the romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, parmesan cheese, croutons, and bacon bits.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

🔍 Overview

Caesar salad is a classic side dish, commonly served with pizza at popular restaurants. The crispy bacon bits and crunchy croutons provide the perfect contrast to the creamy Caesar dressing, while the fresh romaine lettuce adds a satisfying crunch. The parmesan cheese brings a salty richness that complements the flavors of your pizza.

This recipe is a quick and easy way to make a satisfying salad. The combination of protein from the bacon and the fresh, crisp lettuce makes it a filling side without being too heavy. It’s a great addition to any meal, offering a flavorful crunch that balances out the richness of pizza.

7. Extra Cheesy Garlic Bread

🧑‍🍳 Method

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice the French bread into thick slices and place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

3. In a small bowl, mix butter and minced garlic. Spread the garlic butter evenly on each slice of bread.

4. Grate marble cheddar cheese and sprinkle it generously over the garlic buttered slices.

5. Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the cheese.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown.

7. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

🔍 Overview

This ooey gooey garlic bread is the ultimate side for pizza, offering a combination of crispy, buttery bread and melted cheese. The garlic butter adds a savory depth, while the marble cheddar brings an extra layer of creaminess that pairs perfectly with the flavors of your pizza. The sprinkle of oregano adds a nice herbaceous touch that complements the dish’s richness.

This recipe is a comfort food classic that is always a crowd-pleaser. The richness of the cheese and butter makes it indulgent, yet it still has a fresh, savory element from the garlic and oregano. Just go easy on it if you don’t want to skyrocket your calorie intake for the day!

8. Spinach Salad With Pear Slices & Almonds

🧑‍🍳 Method

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach and pear slices.

2. Add almonds, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, soy sauce, and oregano to the bowl.

3. Toss the ingredients together until evenly coated.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

🔍 Overview

This perfectly simple spinach salad is a refreshing, healthy side dish that pairs wonderfully with pizza. The sweetness of the pear and the crunch of the almonds contrast beautifully with the soft, fresh spinach. The Dijon mustard and maple syrup or honey vinaigrette adds a tangy-sweet dressing that complements the richness of the pizza without overpowering it.

I like this recipe because it’s light yet satisfying and balances healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. The addition of spinach and pear boosts your intake of vitamins and minerals, making this salad a nutritious option to round out your meal!

9. Greek Village Salad

🧑‍🍳 Method

1. Slice the beefsteak tomatoes and cucumber into thick slices.

2. Thinly slice the red onion and add it to a large mixing bowl.

3. Add the tomatoes, cucumber, and onion to the bowl.

4. Drizzle olive oil and red or white wine vinegar over the vegetables.

5. Sprinkle with sugar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.

6. Toss the ingredients together until evenly coated.

7. Optionally, top with crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives. Serve immediately.

🔍 Overview

Greek village salad makes for the perfect pizza side dish, bringing fresh, vibrant flavors that cut through the richness of cheese and crust. The crisp vegetables, paired with the tangy dressing, provide a refreshing contrast that elevates any pizza meal. The feta and olives top the whole thing off in typical Mediterranean fashion!

As a half-Greek, I can't go without recommending this simple yet delicious salad. It’s the perfect combination of healthy, fresh ingredients with a balance of acidity and richness from the olive oil and feta. It’s a great way to add a crunchy, light side to complement your pizza. To make it lower-calorie, omit the feta and reduce the amount of olive oil.

FAQ

What side dishes go with pizza?

Side dishes that pair well with pizza are usually fresh, crunchy, or light to balance the richness of the pizza. Salads, garlic bread, and roasted vegetables are classic choices. 

For example, a refreshing spinach salad is a perfect match, providing a healthy contrast to the cheesy pizza and a sweet crunch from the pears and almonds. It’s a great, easy recipe to complement any pizza.

What do I eat pizza with?

Pizza is often enjoyed with sides that offer a balance of textures and flavors. You can go for a tangy salad, crispy garlic bread, or even a creamy dip to elevate your pizza experience. 

For instance, try the Extra Cheesy Garlic Bread, which is loaded with cheese and savory garlic butter. It’s a deliciously indulgent choice, giving you a satisfying side that complements pizza perfectly with its rich, crispy texture.

What is pizza traditionally served with?

Traditionally, pizza is served with simple side dishes like salad, bread, or roasted vegetables. The idea is to keep the sides light and fresh to balance the heavy, cheesy nature of the pizza. 

One example is the classic Greek Village Salad, which is a great traditional choice. It offers a crunchy, crisp texture with a refreshing vinaigrette, and the feta and olives add a Mediterranean flair.

What is pizza paired with?

Pizza is often paired with side dishes that add variety in texture and flavor. Salads, garlic bread, or even light dips are commonly chosen to complement pizza. 

For a great match, try the Mushroom & Onion White Pizza with Hot Honey & Arugula Salad. It’s a gourmet option with a perfect mix of sweetness and spice from the hot honey, arugula, and balsamic-marinated onions, making it an excellent pairing with pizza.