Choose the best accompaniments, drinks and desserts to accompany the pizza

Oh hot pizza! Some people could live only on pizza, without eating anything else. The average American devours an astonishing 23 pounds of pizza each year, and even more pizza if you live in a college dorm. And while pizza is definitely an American (and global) staple, there are certain sides, drinks, and desserts that seem tailor-made to accompany this favorite culinary delight.

sides

Pizza is a hearty meal in and of itself, but adding sides to your pizza delivery order can make it even more special. The most requested garnishes to accompany the pizza include:

• Appetizers, such as breadsticks, chicken tenders, mozzarella cheese sticks, cheese bread, grilled eggplant, chicken wings, quesadillas, potato skins, nachos, calamari, coconut shrimp, or steamed clams. The type of appetizer you choose will likely depend on the type of pizza you order.

• Salad. A simple green salad is a great side dish to go with your Issaquah pizza, but you can also order a stronger salad. From the chef’s salad to a simple garden salad, you can boost your greens while enjoying the perfect side to go with your pizza.

Beverages

Many people prefer the old standby drink to go with their delicious pizza meal: soda. Soda, whether in cola, citrus, root beer, or other flavors, is an ideal beverage that can also be purchased in diet form for those watching their waistlines. Fruit juices are also a good option that breaks the norm a bit for those who are heavy soda drinkers. The healthiest drink of all to accompany pizza is sparkling mineral water, which has no calories. For those who prefer a drink with a little more head, there is always beer, either on tap or bottled. And for the sophisticates on your list who want to enjoy their pizza in true Italian style, wine from your favorite vintage can really cleanse the palate at the end of the meal. A little too much wine? Enjoy a wine cooler for fewer calories and less punch.

Dessert

Some say dessert is the best part of the meal, while others say dessert is completely overrated and they can’t afford the calories. Dessert adds a nice end to any meal, especially when served with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Pastry desserts like baklava are always a popular treat when eating Italian food. Baklava is a golden cake with flaky layers that are separated only by syrup and nuts. Tiramisu is another Italian favorite. This rich cake is drenched in espresso and topped with a mousse made from mascarpone cheese and then topped with cocoa sugar. From ice cream to cheesecake to cake, there are plenty of desserts that are the perfect fit to round out your pizza meal.