10 Pizza Side Dishes You’ll Love

Pizza has a reputation for being a less-than-healthy food choice, but with the right sides, it can be part of a balanced meal. Depending on how it’s made and what toppings it includes, pizza may have some vitamins, calcium, iron, and even protein. But it can also be high in sodium, refined carbs, fat, and calories. That’s why pairing this indulgent treat with a healthy side dish can up its nutritional value.

When choosing a side dish for pizza, keep these things in mind. It should be:

• Easy and quick to make
• Full of vegetables, fruit, or whole grains
• Low in fat and sodium
• Tasty and light, complementing the pizza rather than overwhelming it

Many people order pizza when they want something quick and easy to eat, but it’s worth taking a little extra time to make a healthy side or two to round out the meal. Here are some ideas from our dietitians for choosing delicious and healthy sides:

1. Salads are easy, healthy, and satisfying. A crisp salad helps cut the heaviness of cheese-loaded pizza. Make a simple salad by starting with your choice of salad greens, then adding chopped veggies and dressing with a light vinaigrette. Skip the cheese and croutons.
2. Serve with roasted or grilled vegetables. Roasted broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, or peppers are colorful and flavorful, making a great companion to pizza. They add loads of fiber and nutrients without adding many calories. 
3. Enjoy some whole grains or legumes. Salads or side dishes that include quinoa, brown rice, farro, chickpeas, or other beans are flavorful and filling, adding fiber and protein to your meal. 
4. Get creative with more indulgent sides. Instead of pairing pizza with greasy wings or French fries, try healthier alternatives to these popular pizza sidekicks. Our Buffalo Chicken Tenders and Garlic Fries are two recipes worth making.
5. Add some sweetness with fruit. Pairing fruit with pizza is a fresh, light, and nutrient-filled way to complete a meal. 

Here are some dietitian-approved tips for enjoying a healthy pizza meal:

• Serve a salad or put out a veggie platter first so everyone fills up a little before starting to eat the pizza.
• When dressing a salad, keep it simple. A little olive oil mixed with vinegar, lemon juice, and herbs is all you need.
• Aim to fill half your plate with veggies or fruit so you don’t eat too many slices.
• Good pizza side dishes should fill you up without adding much fat, sodium, or calories.
• Skip the takeout and instead make your own healthier pizza. Try our delicious Veggie Pizza, Hawaiian Pizza, or Buffalo Chicken Pizza. Want something fun for the kids? They’ll love this Monster Pizza or these spooky Pizza Mummies.