What to Eat with Naan Bread Pizza? Best Side Dishes & Pairings

 Naan bread pizza served with salad

Naan bread pizza is a quick, flavorful, and versatile meal, but what should you serve with it? Whether you’re looking for a light and fresh salad, a creamy dip, or a hearty soup, the right side dish can elevate your meal.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best side dishes to pair with naan pizza, including salads, dips, soups, proteins, and beverages. Let’s dive into some delicious pairings!

Fresh Salads That Pair Well with Naan Bread Pizza

A fresh salad provides balance and contrast to the warm, cheesy naan pizza. Here are three great options:

Naan bread pizza with Mediterranean salad

Classic Mediterranean Salad

A Mediterranean salad adds crispness and tanginess to your meal. Made with:

  • Cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives for crunch
  • Feta cheese for a creamy texture
  • Olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing dressing

This salad complements the richness of naan pizza and enhances its Mediterranean flavors.

Arugula & Parmesan Salad

Arugula is slightly bitter and peppery, making it a great contrast to cheesy naan pizza. Toss it with:

  • Parmesan shavings for a salty bite
  • Lemon juice and olive oil for brightness
  • Crushed walnuts for added crunch

This salad keeps the meal light yet satisfying.

Cucumber Yogurt Salad (Raita)

Raita is a cooling, yogurt-based salad that pairs well with naan pizza, especially if your pizza has spicy toppings. It includes:

  • Chopped cucumbers and mint for freshness
  • Greek yogurt for a creamy texture
  • A pinch of cumin and salt for extra flavor

It’s a great side dish for balancing bold flavors in your meal.

Flavorful Dips & Sauces

A good dip enhances the taste of naan pizza by adding extra creaminess, spice, or tanginess. Here are some delicious dips to try:

Naan bread pizza with sauces

Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki is a cool, creamy Greek dip made with:

  • Greek yogurt for a thick texture
  • Grated cucumber for a refreshing crunch
  • Garlic, lemon juice, and dill for added flavor

This dip is perfect for drizzling over naan pizza or using as a side dip for crusts.

Hummus

Hummus is a smooth and protein-rich dip made from:

  • Blended chickpeas for a creamy base
  • Tahini (sesame paste) for nutty depth
  • Lemon juice and garlic for a zesty kick

Try spreading a thin layer of hummus on naan before adding toppings for a unique twist on naan pizza.

Garlic Butter Dip

For a buttery, indulgent touch, make a garlic butter dip by combining:

  • Melted butter with minced garlic
  • A dash of parsley and salt for extra flavor
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) for heat

This dip complements cheesy naan pizza and adds richness to every bite.

Warm & Hearty Soups

A comforting soup is an excellent side dish for naan bread pizza, especially on chilly days. The warmth, depth of flavors, and rich textures complement the crispy, cheesy goodness of naan pizza. Here are some of the best soups to serve:

Tomato Basil Soup

A classic tomato basil soup pairs perfectly with naan pizza. The tangy, velvety texture balances out the cheesy, crispy naan, making it a match made in heaven. Ingredients include:

Naan bread pizza with soup

  • Roasted tomatoes for depth of flavor
  • Fresh basil for a hint of sweetness
  • A touch of cream for richness

For more cozy and indulgent soup recipes, check out this Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe, a creamy and flavorful delight that pairs well with cheesy naan pizza.

Lentil Soup (Dal)

Lentil soup, also known as Dal, is a protein-packed and fiber-rich dish that complements naan pizza beautifully. This hearty soup is made with:

  • Yellow or red lentils for a creamy texture
  • A blend of Indian spices like cumin and turmeric for warmth
  • Garlic and ginger for bold flavor

If you love hearty soups with a twist, you might also enjoy Marry Me Chicken Soup with Gnocchi, a creamy and indulgent soup option to go with naan pizza.

Minestrone Soup

For a vegetable-packed and nutritious option, minestrone soup is an excellent choice. Made with:

  • Tomatoes and broth as a flavorful base
  • Kidney beans and pasta for a satisfying bite
  • Carrots, zucchini, and celery for extra nutrients

Looking for something even heartier? Try Marry Me Chicken Soup with Potatoes, which offers a comforting twist with creamy potatoes.

Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup

If you prefer a plant-based option, Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup is a fantastic choice. It’s packed with:

  • Plant-based protein like tofu or jackfruit
  • Carrots, celery, and onions for classic chicken soup flavors
  • Vegan-friendly broth and noodles

For another warm and cozy meal idea, don’t miss Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Recipe for Comfort and Romance, a creamy soup that’s perfect with naan pizza.

Protein-Rich Side Dishes

If you want to make your meal more filling and nutritious, pairing naan bread pizza with protein-packed sides is a great idea. Here are some delicious options:

Grilled Chicken Skewers

For a flavorful and satisfying protein source, grilled chicken skewers are a perfect side dish. These juicy, well-seasoned skewers are made with:

Grilled chicken skewers with naan bread pizza

  • Boneless chicken pieces marinated in garlic, lemon, and spices
  • A light yogurt-based marinade for tenderness
  • A smoky, charred flavor from grilling

This pairs especially well with naan pizza topped with Mediterranean flavors like feta and olives.

Spiced Paneer Tikka

For a vegetarian-friendly protein option, paneer tikka is a fantastic choice. This Indian-inspired dish features:

  • Cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture
  • Grilled or oven-roasted for a smoky flavor
  • A hint of lemon and fresh cilantro for balance

Paneer tikka is a great way to add bold flavors and protein to your naan pizza meal.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

If you love seafood, garlic butter shrimp is an excellent protein-rich side to serve with naan pizza. Made with:

  • Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter
  • A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
  • A sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish

This dish adds a light yet flavorful contrast to the cheesy goodness of naan pizza.

Bread & Grain-Based Side Dishes

If you’re looking to round out your meal with hearty grains or crispy bread, here are some great options to serve with naan bread pizza.

Couscous Salad

A light and fluffy couscous salad pairs beautifully with naan pizza, offering a refreshing contrast. It includes:

  • Cooked couscous for a delicate texture
  • Chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley for freshness
  • A drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil for brightness

This Mediterranean-inspired dish is a healthy, fiber-rich side that complements naan pizza well.

Garlic Breadsticks

If you want to double up on delicious bread, garlic breadsticks are a must-try. These crispy, buttery sticks are made with:

  • Soft dough baked to golden perfection
  • A garlic butter glaze with parsley for extra flavor
  • A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness

They are perfect for dipping into marinara or garlic butter sauce alongside your naan pizza.

Quinoa Pilaf

For a nutritious, protein-packed grain dish, try quinoa pilaf. It’s made with:

  • Cooked quinoa for a fluffy, slightly nutty base
  • Sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers for flavor
  • A dash of cumin and paprika for warmth

Quinoa pilaf adds a healthy, gluten-free option to your meal while keeping it light yet filling.

Best Drinks to Serve with Naan Pizza

A good drink pairing enhances the flavors of your naan pizza while refreshing your palate. Whether you prefer a non-alcoholic option or a wine pairing, here are some of the best choices:

Naan bread pizza with drink

Refreshing Lemonade

A glass of homemade lemonade is a simple yet effective way to cut through the richness of naan pizza. It’s made with:

  • Fresh lemon juice for a citrusy kick
  • A touch of honey or sugar for sweetness
  • Chilled sparkling water for a bubbly texture (optional)

Lemonade works especially well with herb-based naan pizzas like pesto or Mediterranean flavors.

Iced Chai Tea

For a spiced and aromatic drink, iced chai tea is a fantastic option. This Indian-inspired beverage contains:

  • Black tea infused with cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves
  • A splash of milk for creaminess
  • Ice cubes for a refreshing finish

Chai tea pairs well with naan pizza featuring bold Indian flavors like tandoori or tikka toppings.

Red or White Wine Pairings

If you prefer wine with your meal, here’s what works best:

  • Red wine (Pinot Noir or Merlot) – Pairs well with tomato-based naan pizzas.
  • White wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay) – Complements creamy or pesto naan pizzas.

The right wine enhances the richness of the pizza while balancing out its flavors.

What Is Naan Bread Traditionally Eaten With?

Naan bread has been a staple in Indian, Pakistani, and Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. Traditionally, it is served with rich, flavorful dishes that balance its soft, slightly chewy texture. Here are some of the best traditional pairings:

Traditional Indian Curries

One of the most common ways to enjoy naan is with Indian curries, which are thick, flavorful, and perfect for dipping. Popular choices include:

  • Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) – A creamy, tomato-based curry with tender chicken.
  • Paneer Tikka Masala – A vegetarian curry featuring spiced paneer in a rich tomato sauce.
  • Lamb Rogan Josh – A slow-cooked lamb dish with bold spices.

Dal (Lentils) & Vegetables

Naan is also served with vegetarian dishes, including:

  • Dal Tadka – A spiced lentil dish cooked with garlic, cumin, and ghee.
  • Baingan Bharta – Roasted eggplant mashed with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
  • Palak Paneer – A creamy spinach and paneer dish that pairs beautifully with naan.

Pickles & Chutneys

For a lighter, more flavorful pairing, naan can be served with:

  • Mango Chutney – A sweet and tangy sauce made from ripe mangoes.
  • Mint Chutney – A refreshing blend of mint, cilantro, and yogurt.
  • Spicy Lime Pickle – A tangy, fermented condiment with chili and lime.

These condiments add zesty and sweet flavors that complement naan beautifully.

FAQs About Naan Bread Pizza Pairings

1. What pairs well with naan bread?

Naan pairs well with:
Indian curries like butter chicken, dal, and tikka masala.
Dips and sauces such as hummus, tzatziki, and garlic butter.
Fresh salads like Mediterranean or arugula parmesan salad.
Hearty soups including tomato basil, lentil, and minestrone.

2. What is naan traditionally eaten with?

Traditionally, naan is eaten with Indian and Middle Eastern dishes, including:
Spiced lentils (Dal Tadka)
Vegetable curries like Baingan Bharta (roasted eggplant mash)
Meat-based curries such as Rogan Josh or Butter Chicken
Chutneys, pickles, and yogurt-based sauces

3. What to serve with bread pizza?

Naan pizza pairs well with:
Light salads (cucumber-yogurt raita, arugula parmesan)
Dips and sauces (hummus, tzatziki, marinara sauce)
Soup options (tomato basil, lentil, or creamy chicken soup)
Protein sides (grilled chicken, shrimp, or paneer tikka)

4. Is naan healthy or unhealthy?

Naan can be high in calories, carbs, and fat due to refined flour and butter. However, healthier options include:
Whole wheat naan for extra fiber
Gluten-free naan for dietary restrictions
Greek yogurt-based naan for lower fat content

Conclusion: Best Ways to Serve Naan Bread Pizza

Naan bread pizza is versatile, flavorful, and easy to pair with a variety of side dishes. Whether you prefer a fresh salad, a creamy dip, a hearty soup, or a protein-rich side, there are plenty of ways to enhance your naan pizza experience.

For a complete and balanced meal, try pairing your naan pizza with:

  • A light salad like Mediterranean or arugula parmesan.
  • A rich dip such as tzatziki, hummus, or garlic butter.
  • A warming soup like tomato basil or lentil dal.
  • A protein side like grilled chicken, shrimp, or paneer.

With the right pairings, naan pizza can be a delicious and well-rounded meal!

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