Pizza isn’t the healthiest food out there – but darn it, it’s delicious. That said, I can understand why you might want to throw some “healthy” sides on your plate – you know, to balance out the greasy, carb-heavy, and cheesy goodness of pizza. But which healthy sides go with pizza?
There are many wonderful, delicious healthy sides to serve with pizza. The typical go-to is a salad of any kind, as long as it’s loaded with vegetables. However, crispy parmesan-coated veggies are another great choice, as are raw vegetables.
Hey, everyone! My name is Michelle, and if you don’t know already, my family and I are big pizza connoisseurs. However, as a mom, I know the importance of teaching my kids balance and offering them a well-rounded diet. That’s why I always provide healthy sides with our pizza dinners.
Keep reading to find out which healthy sides go best with pizza!
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5 Healthy Sides to Serve with Pizza
Create the perfect balancing act by choosing one of these yummy yet healthy side dishes to pair with your slices of pizza.
1. Salad (Any Kind)
The number one healthy side of pizza is a salad. That’s because salad is loaded with vegetables and, sometimes, other healthy and tasty components like fruits, nuts, seeds, etc. Being a powerhouse of nutrients, you can feel confident eating this tasty combo.
Feel free to experiment with your side salad options. Personally, I am a big fan of Italian salad or Caesar salad because they have complementary flavors that pair well with any kind of pizza. However, you can also opt for out-of-the-box flavors like this exquisite kale salad.
2. Cooked Parmesan-Coated Vegetables
Another great and healthy side dish for pizza dinners? Cooked vegetables, of course!
Now, you can bake your veggies however you please. But if you need some help with inspiration, consider parmesan roasted veggies. Again, parmesan is a wonderful, complementing flavor to pizza – and it just so happens to be fantastic on vegetables.
Go ahead and coat all your faves with this delectable parmesan coating – zucchini, squash, carrots, you name it. If you want extra crispiness, try frying them in your air fryer instead. I promise it’s delicious. In fact, it’s my kids’ fave way to consume vegetables.
3. Raw Veggies
Not everyone is a fan of cooked vegetables. If you prefer the raw variety, you can also use them as a healthy side dish for your pizza slices.
Which raw veggies work best?
Our personal favorites include sliced bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, broccoli, and cauliflower. However, you can add to this list if you have other favorite raw veggies you like to munch on.
4. Cauliflower Breadsticks
Most people love to pair their pizza with breadsticks. It’s a combination that’s almost as great as peanut butter and chocolate! However, adding breadsticks adds a tremendous amount of carbs, grease, and other undesirable components. In other words, it’s not the healthiest choice.
Does that mean you must say goodbye to your delicious breadsticks for good?
No.
All you need to do is swap your breadsticks for these cauliflower breadsticks. Trust me – I’ve made them, and they’re so scrumptious. Sure, they’re not exactly the same, but they come incredibly close. After diving into these delights, you won’t miss your “usual” breadsticks!
5. Sweet Potato Fries
Another great combo? Pizza and fries. Of course, I don’t have to go into too much detail about why fries aren’t the healthiest side dish.
Again, that doesn’t mean you have to say sayonara to fries altogether. You just need a healthier option – such as sweet potato fries.
Sweet potato fries are delicious. They come with just the right amount of salt to satisfy your french fry craving. Plus, they have a pinch of sweetness, which is downright incredible. (And if you want to amplify the sweetness, add cinnamon along with the salt!)
FAQs
Who said your pizza night had to be nothing but indulgence? These sides are as yummy as they are healthy, allowing you to enjoy your pizza slices without the guilt. But before you run off to order a pizza, check out these frequently asked questions, pizza lovers!
What can I have with pizza instead of chips?
Wait, who said you have to get rid of your beloved chips? All you need to do is swap your favorite store-bought varieties for a homemade recipe. Sure, it’ll take more time and energy on your behalf, but enjoying healthy chips alongside your pizza is worth it. Yum!
What appetizers go well with pizza?
Some of the best appetizers for pizza include chicken wings, salads, mozzarella sticks, and onion rings.
What is the healthiest way to eat pizza?
If you want your actual pizza to be healthier, you have many options. You can trade traditional, heavy crusts with whole-grain, thin, or cauliflower options. Go light on the cheese and top with vegetables, like spinach, arugula, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Opt for homemade sauces (if possible), provide healthy side dishes (like the ones mentioned above), and mind your portions.
There Are Many Great and Healthy Side Dishes for Pizza!
Whether you enjoy breadsticks or raw vegetables, there is a healthy side that you’ll love to enjoy with your pizza slices. Take it a step further by making a homemade pizza that’s big on healthiness, too.
What is your favorite healthy side to serve with pizza? Share in the comments so we can try, too!
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