What Pairs with Pizza?
Pizza, the iconic Italian dish, has been a staple of cuisine worldwide for decades. With its crispy crust, gooey cheese, and savory sauce, it’s no wonder why pizza has become a favorite among foodies of all ages. But when it comes to pairing food with pizza, there’s more to consider than just tossing a few toppings onto a pie. In this article, we’ll delve into the art of pairing with pizza and explore what foods complement its rich and savory flavors.
Soft Drinks
Before we dive into the savory options, let’s start with some popular soft drinks that pair well with pizza. Some classic combinations include:
- Cola and Coca-Cola: The sweet and refreshing qualities of cola cut through the richness of melted cheese and savory sauce.
- Root Beer and Foster’s Root Beer: The creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor of root beer complement the gooey cheese and crispy crust.
- Lemon-Lime Soda and Sprite: The zesty acidity of lemon-lime soda helps to balance the oiliness of pizza.
| Soft Drink | Description |
|---|---|
| Cola | Sweet and refreshing |
| Root Beer | Creamy and slightly sweet |
| Lemon-Lime Soda | Zesty acidity |
Salads
Who says pizza has to be paired with sweet drinks alone? Green salads, in particular, provide a refreshing contrast to the warm and savory pie. Here are some classic salads that pair well with pizza:
- Mixed Greens: A simple combination of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing creates a light and refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
- Garden Greens: A medley of lettuce, cucumbers, and bell peppers topped with a zesty ranch dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the soft pizza.
- Spinach: A handful of baby spinach leaves tossed with olive oil and lemon juice can help neutralize the richness of cheese and sauce.
**Entrees
When pairing entrees with pizza, consider the textures and flavors that complement its crispy crust and gooey cheese. Here are some Classic Combinations:
- Chicken Parmesan: Breaded and fried chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese creates a rich and indulgent combination with pizza.
- Breadsticks: Crispy breadsticks drizzled with parmesan cheese and parsley provide a satisfying crunch contrast to the soft pizza crust.
- Garlic Shrimp: Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and herbs create a light and seafood-inspired pairing with pizza.
- Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or brussels sprouts can help balance the savory flavors of pizza.
**Side Dishes
Before we conclude, let’s not forget the humble side dishes that pair well with pizza. These are often simple yet crucial additions to elevate the entire meal. Some Essential Options include:
- French Fries: Crispy French fries sprinkled with salt and herbs can add a satisfying crunch to the pizza.
- Onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet and depthful flavor that complements the savory pie.
- Garlic Bread: Soft and fluffy garlic bread provides a satisfying contrast in texture to the crispy crust.
- Pickles: Thin slices of cucumber or dill pickles add a tangy freshness to the rich and cheesy pizza.
In conclusion, what pairs with pizza? The answer lies in combining a variety of textures and flavors to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Soft drinks, salads, entrees, and side dishes all play crucial roles in elevating the humble pie. Whether you’re opting for classic combinations or new and innovative pairings, remember that pizza is meant to be savored with company and loved ones – so go ahead, and indulge in this delightful fusion of flavors and textures!