How to Build a Meal Around Pizza

The Perfect Pizza Meal: A Comprehensive Guide

Pizza is often enjoyed as a standalone meal, but many people like to complement it with appetizers, sides, and desserts. This is especially common during events like sports games or celebrations. From salads and hot wings to pies and cakes, the options are endless. Here’s how you can build a meal around pizza to suit everyone's tastes.

Appetizers: Setting the Stage

Starting your meal with appetizers can add a variety of flavors and textures to your dining experience. Here are some popular options:

Healthy Starters

• Salads: A fresh salad can be a great way to add vegetables to your meal. Options like Caesar salad, Greek salad, or a simple garden salad are popular choices.
• Soups: Light soups such as minestrone or tomato basil can be a warm and comforting start.

Crowd-Pleasers

• Chicken Wings: According to the National Chicken Council, Americans consumed 1.42 billion chicken wings during the Super Bowl weekend in 2020. Wings are a popular choice for their versatility and flavor options.
• Mozzarella Sticks: These cheesy delights are a favorite among many and pair well with marinara sauce.
• Breadsticks: Soft, garlic-infused breadsticks are a classic choice that complements pizza perfectly.

Main Course: The Pizza

Pizza itself can be customized to suit various tastes. Whether you prefer a classic Margherita, a meat-lover's delight, or a veggie-packed pie, the options are limitless. According to a 2021 survey by The Harris Poll, pepperoni remains the most popular pizza topping in the United States, favored by 64% of respondents.

Sides: Enhancing the Experience

Adding sides to your meal can make it more satisfying and enjoyable. Here are some popular choices:

• French Fries: A staple side dish that pairs well with almost anything.
• Onion Rings: Crispy and flavorful, onion rings are a great alternative to fries.
• Garlic Knots: These buttery, garlicky bites are a hit with pizza lovers.

Desserts: The Sweet Finale

After enjoying your pizza and sides, a sweet treat can be the perfect way to end your meal. Here are some popular dessert options:

• Cannoli: These Italian pastries filled with sweet ricotta cheese are a delightful choice.
• Fruit Pies: Apple pie, cherry pie, or any fruit pie can provide a sweet and tangy finish.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of your favorite ice cream can be a refreshing end to a hearty meal.
• Cheesecake: Rich and creamy, cheesecake is a decadent dessert that pairs well with pizza.

Beverage Pairings

No meal is complete without the right beverages. Here are some popular choices:

• Soda: Classic choices like cola or root beer are always a hit.
• Beer: According to the Brewers Association, craft beer sales reached $22.2 billion in 2020, making it a popular choice for pizza pairings.
• Wine: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, can complement the flavors of your pizza.

Conclusion

Building a meal around pizza can be a fun and delicious experience. By incorporating a variety of appetizers, sides, and desserts, you can create a well-rounded meal that satisfies everyone's tastes. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, these tips will help you make the most of your pizza night.

For more information on pizza and its many accompaniments, check out Food Network's Pizza Recipes and Serious Eats' Guide to Pizza.

Sources:

1. National Chicken Council. (2020). "Super Bowl LIV (2020) Wing Report." Retrieved from National Chicken Council.
2. The Harris Poll. (2021). "America’s Favorite Pizza Toppings." Retrieved from The Harris Poll.
3. Brewers Association. (2020). "Craft Brewing Industry Statistics." Retrieved from Brewers Association.