What to Eat With Naan Bread: Simple Ideas in 2025

Soft, chewy, and endlessly versatile, naan bread is more than just a sidekick to curry. This pillowy flatbread has roots in South Asian cuisine but has found a place in kitchens around the world thanks to its ability to complement bold flavors, creamy sauces, and spiced dishes. 

Traditional pairings like butter chicken or tikka masala are always a hit. But there’s a whole world of options beyond curry. From fresh salads and spiced stews to naanwiches and loaded flatbreads, there are so many creative ways to turn naan into a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you're after something light, hearty, vegetarian, or kid-friendly, there’s a pairing to suit.

In this article, we’re sharing 9 easy recipes to serve with naan bread. From warming soups to fusion tacos and grilled cheese twists. Each idea is simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for weeknights or entertaining. Let’s get inspired!

All the recipes on this page are carefully crafted by our team, including our in-house nutritionist, who also calculates the nutritional information provided. While we strive for accuracy, please note that actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods. 

1. Spiced Lentil Dal

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add the lentils, tomato, water or broth, and salt. Stir well.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover loosely and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft and thickened.

5. Stir in lemon juice and adjust salt or spices to taste.

6. Serve warm with naan and sprinkle with chopped cilantro, if desired.

Overview 🔍

This comforting dal is the perfect companion to naan bread. Its creamy texture is ideal for scooping, and the spices are warming without being overwhelming. Red lentils cook quickly and break down beautifully, making this an easy dish to prepare on a weeknight or when you're short on time.

Customize it by adding spinach in the last few minutes of cooking or stirring in a splash of coconut milk for extra richness. For a protein boost, you could top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or pair with grilled tofu. This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, and it makes great leftovers for lunch the next day.

2. Chickpea Stew

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft.

2. Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute.

3. Add tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring to coat the onions.

4. Pour in the chopped tomatoes, chickpeas, and broth. Stir well.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, until the stew thickens slightly.

6. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to brighten the flavor.

7. Serve hot with naan and sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.

Overview 🔍

This chickpea stew is hearty, flavorful, and made mostly with pantry staples. The rich tomato base soaks into naan perfectly, while the chickpeas add protein and fiber to make the meal filling and satisfying. It’s ideal for when you want something comforting and nutritious without a lot of prep.

You can easily tweak it too. Add spinach, kale, or zucchini in the last 5 minutes for a veggie boost, or stir in coconut milk for a creamier texture. It's vegan, budget-friendly, and great for meal prep. Serve with warm naan, a dollop of yogurt, or pickled onions for contrast. 

This recipe is inspired by a HelloFresh vegetarian meal. If you’re short on time or want help planning meat-free dinners, a vegetarian meal delivery service can be a smart option. We’ve reviewed the best vegetarian meal delivery services to help you find one that fits your taste, budget, and lifestyle.

3. Middle-Eastern Inspired Shakshuka

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook for 6-8 minutes, until soft.

2. Stir in the garlic, cumin, paprika, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Pour in the chopped tomatoes. Simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.

4. Use a spoon to make four small wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each well.

5. Cover the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are done to your liking.

6. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with chopped herbs, and serve with naan for dipping.

Overview 🔍

Shakshuka is a brilliant choice to serve with naan. The warm, spiced tomato sauce is perfect for scooping, and the gently cooked eggs add richness and protein. It’s a naturally vegetarian dish that feels satisfying and vibrant, whether you’re making it for brunch or a quick evening meal.

You can add spinach, feta, or even canned beans to the sauce to boost the nutrition or stretch the servings. Try using naan in place of toast or pita for a heartier, more filling twist. This dish also makes a fun shared skillet for weekend guests or a relaxed breakfast-for-dinner moment.

4. Classic Chicken Tikka Masala

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. In a bowl, mix the yogurt and curry powder. Add chicken, stir to coat, and marinate for 20 minutes (or skip if in a hurry).

2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft.

3. Stir in garlic and cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add marinated chicken (with yogurt) and cook for about 6-8 minutes until browned and mostly cooked through.

5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes.

6. Stir in cream and simmer for another 5 minutes. Add salt to taste.

7. Garnish with cilantro and serve with warm naan.

Overview 🔍

Chicken tikka is a classic naan companion. This shortcut version of chicken tikka masala keeps all the cozy flavor but cuts down on spices and steps. Using curry powder instead of multiple spices makes it beginner-friendly and fast. It’s perfect for when you want a satisfying curry without the full prep.

It’s creamy, mildly spiced, and goes beautifully with naan. You can make it dairy-free with coconut milk, or swap in chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Serve it as a standalone curry or with a side of rice and cucumber salad for extra freshness.

5. Cannellini Bean & Spinach Flatbread

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Make the hummus using a blender or food processor. Combine the beans, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency. Set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spinach and a pinch of salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes until just wilted. Remove from heat.

3. Warm the naan bread. Spread a generous layer of hummus over each one.

4. Top with wilted spinach and strips of roasted red pepper.

5. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or a squeeze of lemon if you like. 

Overview 🔍

This bean hummus and veggie-topped naan is a fresh, satisfying twist on flatbread. The smooth white bean base is mild and creamy, while the spinach and sweet roasted peppers add texture and contrast. It’s colorful, fast to make, and perfect when you want something light but still substantial.

You can swap cannellini beans for chickpeas or other white beans, or use store-bought hummus to save even more time. Try adding feta, olives, or toasted seeds for variety, or serve the hummus and toppings on the side for a build-your-own naan board. It’s naturally vegan, but feel free to add cooked chicken for extra protein if you like.

6. Greek-Style Meatballs & Tzatziki

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. In a bowl, mix the ground meat with onion, garlic, oregano, cumin, parsley or mint, salt, and pepper. Roll into small meatballs (about 1 inch).

2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning, until browned and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes).

3. Serve the warm meatballs with naan, a generous spoonful of tzatziki (homemade or store-bought), and extra herbs or lemon if you like.

Overview 🔍

These Greek-style meatballs are juicy, herby, and perfect for wrapping in naan with a dollop of cool, garlicky tzatziki. The flavors are fresh and zesty, and the naan works just like pita to scoop up every bite. It’s a great recipe for a shareable platter or an easy dinner with flair.

Short on time? You can always use store-bought tzatziki instead of making your own. And if you're wondering what else to serve with this versatile sauce, check out our what to eat with tzatziki sauce roundup for fresh ideas.

7. Mexican-Inspired Naan Tacos

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5-6 minutes until softened.

2. Stir in cumin and smoked paprika and cook for 1 minute.

3. Add black beans and a splash of water. Cook for another 5 minutes, mashing some of the beans slightly for texture. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice.

4. Warm the naan breads and lay them flat like taco shells.

5. Spoon the bean mixture onto each naan, then top with lettuce, tomatoes or salsa, avocado, and sour cream or yogurt. Garnish with fresh cilantro if using. Serve folded or open-style.

Overview 🔍

These naan tacos take the flavors of a classic bean taco. Serve them up in a soft, pillowy naan. They’re perfect for scooping, folding, or loading up with toppings. The black bean filling is hearty and spiced just enough to keep things interesting without overpowering.

You can easily swap in cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or ground turkey, or make it extra cheesy with melted cheddar or crumbled feta. Try using flavored naan (like garlic or chili) for extra flair, or offer a spread of toppings so everyone can build their own.

8. Grilled Cheese Naanwich & Salad 

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. In a bowl, toss cucumber, radishes, carrot, bell pepper, and herbs with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the naanwich.

2. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each naan.

3. Place one naan, butter side down, on the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top, then place the second naan on top, butter side up.

4. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom naan is golden and the cheese starts to melt. Carefully flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until both sides are golden and cheese is melted.

5. Remove from heat, cut naanwiches in half, and serve with the fresh veggie salad.

Overview 🔍

This grilled cheese naanwich offers the comforting, melty goodness of a classic sandwich. It’s leveled up with the soft, pillowy texture of naan. The crisp, colorful salad with cucumber, radish, carrot, and bell pepper adds a bright, crunchy contrast and keeps the meal feeling light and fresh.

Feel free to swap or add your favorite crunchy veggies (like snap peas, celery, or fennel) for extra variety. The dressing is simple but zesty, perfectly balancing the rich cheese. This duo is a quick and satisfying meal that works any time you want something tasty but easy.

9. Pepperoni Naan Bread Pizza

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Place naan breads on a baking sheet. Spread each with a few spoonfuls of sauce, leaving a small border around the edges.

3. Sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella, then top with pepperoni slices.

4. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with oregano or chili flakes if using.

5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the edges of the naan are golden and crisp.

6. Let cool slightly, then slice and serve.

Overview 🔍

This pepperoni naan pizza is everything you love about classic pizza. It’s got melty cheese, crispy edges, and savory toppings, but it’s made easier and faster thanks to naan bread. It’s a great way to whip up a personal pizza without the fuss of dough.

You can switch up the toppings with sliced mushrooms, olives, peppers, or even pineapple if you like it sweet and salty. Use plant-based pepperoni and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version, or try flavored naan like garlic or chili for extra depth. Serve with a quick side salad or veggie sticks to round out the meal.

FAQ

What’s the best side dish for naan?

Soup makes a great side dish for naan, especially for dipping. A lightly spiced lentil soup, tomato-based broth, or creamy coconut curry soup pairs beautifully with the naan’s soft, chewy texture. It’s an easy way to turn naan into a full, warming meal without a lot of prep.

What goes well on naan bread?

Naan is incredibly versatile and works well with both savory and fresh toppings. Try spreading it with hummus, or a tasty cannellini bean hummus version, for an easy, flavorful base. Add grilled vegetables, avocado, or crumbled feta for extra texture. You can also top naan with scrambled eggs for breakfast or use it as a wrap for fillings like falafel, chicken, or salad.

What’s a healthy dish to serve with naan bread?

A nourishing option is chickpea stew. It’s hearty, fiber-rich, and packed with vegetables, making it perfect for scooping with warm naan. The soft bread complements the stew’s spiced tomato base and adds comfort without needing rice or extra carbs. It’s a satisfying, plant-based choice for balanced weeknight meals.

What is naan traditionally eaten with?

Naan is traditionally served with Indian curries and stews, perfect for scooping sauces and soft textures. Classic pairings include chicken tikka masala, butter chicken, palak paneer, and dal makhani. These rich, spiced dishes balance the mild flavor and pillowy texture of naan, making them an ideal match.

Can you use naan bread as a pizza base?

Yes! Naan makes an excellent quick pizza base. Its soft interior and crisp edges bake beautifully in just minutes. Try our Pepperoni Naan Bread Pizza. Just add sauce, cheese, and toppings, then bake until bubbly. It’s a fast, fuss-free alternative to traditional dough with all the pizza flavor.