10 Mouth-Watering Side Dishes to Pair With Pizza
Pizza doesn’t ask for much. It shows up hot, bubbling, and bold—ready to be the star of any table. But give it a few scene-stealing sidekicks, and you’ve got more than dinner. You’ve got a menu.
Whether you’re planning a backyard wedding, a Sunday vineyard brunch, or a cozy dinner with friends, these 10 side dishes bring bold flavor, balanced textures, and the kind of detail that turns a casual slice session into a celebration.
- Roasted Garlic & Herb Marinated Olives
Let’s start simple. A small bowl of warm olives, marinated in garlic, rosemary, and orange zest, sets the tone. Briny, bold, and easy to grab between slices.
- Fire-Kissed Seasonal Vegetables
Grilled zucchini ribbons, blistered shishitos, charred carrots with honey glaze—these add a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with pizza’s richness.
Bonus: they look as good on the table as they taste.
- Burrata with Local Tomatoes (When in Season)
Burrata is like the culinary version of “you deserve something soft.” Tear it open over heirloom tomatoes, cracked pepper, and olive oil. Mop it up with your crust or fresh crostini. No one will complain.
- Citrus-Marinated Antipasti Skewers
The classic Italian antipasti—reimagined. Stack artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, basil, cured meats, and mozzarella pearls onto skewers. Marinate in lemon, balsamic, and a whisper of heat. Easy to eat. Impossible to forget.
- Crisp Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan
You need a palate cleanser—something peppery and clean. Arugula’s your go-to. Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, topped with aged cheese, and served cool to cut through the fire of the pizza.
- Roasted Stone Fruit with Whipped Ricotta
When stone fruit is in season, this is a must. Think: grilled peaches or plums drizzled in honey and sea salt, then paired with whipped ricotta or mascarpone.
Sweet, savory, and stunning on the plate.
- Charcuterie & Pickle Board
A rustic spread of cured meats, local cheeses, and house-pickled vegetables gives your guests something to graze on while pizzas cook. No rush, no pressure—just flavor and flow.
- Fresh Herb Focaccia
Yes, pizza is bread. But focaccia is its buttery, airy cousin that loves a different kind of spotlight. Great as a starter or served alongside if you’re offering family-style options.
- Roasted Beets with Citrus and Mint
This one’s unexpected—but trust it. The earthy sweetness of roasted beets, brightened with orange slices, fresh mint, and a little vinegar bite, creates a beautiful foil to melted cheese and charred crust.
- Wood-Fired S’mores Board
Let’s end where dessert lives by the fire.
Create a DIY s’mores station with artisan chocolates, homemade marshmallows, graham crackers—or shortbread, if you’re feeling wild. Bonus: let your guests toast their own over the oven flame (safely, of course).
Don’t Just Serve Pizza—Build a Moment
At A Wandering Fire, we believe every meal should tell a story. From antipasti to after-dinner toasts, the best events unfold one delicious detail at a time.
Our mobile kitchen brings the heat—literally—and our catering menu is crafted to make your pizza party feel like a feast made just for you.
Contact us today to start planning your perfect pairing—or let our seasonal ingredients do the talking.
