Pizza is one of the most popular and beloved foods in the world. Whether you prefer it plain or loaded with toppings, there’s one thing that can take your pizza eating experience to the next level: dipping sauces. The perfect dipping sauce can enhance the flavors, add a level of complexity, and elevate even the most basic pizza. In this article, we’re going to explore everything you need to know about dipping sauces for pizza.
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Dipping Sauce for Your Pizza
Before you start trying out different dipping sauces for your pizza, it’s essential to understand what makes a dipping sauce perfect. The perfect pizza sauce should complement the flavors of the pizza, add a different texture, and provide a compelling contrast in terms of taste. The most common types of sauces to pair with pizza include marinara, garlic butter, ranch, hot sauce, and pesto. You can use any flavor profile to your personal taste preference, but it’s essential to keep a balance between the sauce and the pizza. If the sauce is too overpowering, it may ruin the overall taste of the pizza.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a dipping sauce for your pizza is the type of crust you have. For example, if you have a thin crust pizza, you may want to opt for a lighter sauce like garlic butter or pesto. On the other hand, if you have a thick crust pizza, you may want to go for a more robust sauce like marinara or hot sauce. Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try experimenting with different types of sauces like BBQ sauce or honey mustard. Just remember to keep the balance between the sauce and the pizza, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect dipping sauce for your pizza.
5 Classic Dipping Sauces that Pair Perfectly with Pizza
Some of the classic dipping sauces that go well with pizza include marinara sauce, garlic butter, ranch, hot sauce, and pesto. Marinara sauce is one of the most popular dipping sauces for pizza. Made from tomatoes and seasoned with garlic, basil, and other herbs, this sauce is tangy, slightly sweet, and savory, making it an excellent match for any type of pizza. Garlic butter sauce is another classic sauce that adds richness and depth to any pizza. The combination of garlic and butter is irresistible and goes well with plain or pepperoni pizza. Ranch dressing is another popular dipping sauce that has a smooth, tangy flavor. It’s perfect for those who want to add a lightly creamy touch to their pizza. Hot sauce is perfect for those who love spicy food. It adds a nice kick to the pizza without overpowering the crust and toppings. Lastly, pesto sauce is made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese, making it a great match for margherita or veggie pizzas.
How to Make Your Own Homemade Dipping Sauce for Pizza
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making your own dipping sauce for your pizza. One of the easiest recipes is a homemade garlic butter sauce. You’ll need unsalted butter, garlic, and salt. Melt the butter in a saucepan, add finely chopped garlic, salt to taste, and mix it well. You can also try making marinara sauce by simmering canned tomatoes with garlic, basil, and salt for a few hours. Be sure to let the sauce cool before using it as a dipping sauce for your pizza.
Another great dipping sauce option is a spicy ranch sauce. To make this sauce, you’ll need ranch dressing, hot sauce, and cayenne pepper. Mix the ranch dressing with a few dashes of hot sauce and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to your desired level of spiciness. This sauce pairs well with pepperoni or sausage pizza.
If you’re looking for a healthier dipping sauce option, you can try making a hummus dip. To make this dip, you’ll need chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Blend all the ingredients together in a food processor until smooth. You can also add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. This dip pairs well with veggie pizza or a margherita pizza.
The Best Store-Bought Dipping Sauces for Pizza Lovers
If you’re not in the mood to make your own dipping sauce, there are plenty of store-bought options available. Some of the best store-bought dipping sauces for pizza include Newman’s Own Marinara sauce, Hidden Valley Ranch, Frank’s RedHot original sauce, and Classico Traditional Basil Pesto. These sauces are readily available in most grocery stores and are widely recognized for their quality.
However, if you’re looking for a unique and flavorful dipping sauce, you might want to try out some lesser-known options. For example, Trader Joe’s has a delicious garlic spread that pairs perfectly with pizza. Another great option is the Sriracha Aioli from Stonewall Kitchen, which adds a spicy kick to your pizza dipping experience. Don’t be afraid to explore the condiment aisle and try out new flavors to find your perfect pizza dipping sauce!
10 Unique Dipping Sauces to Try with Your Next Slice of Pizza
While classic dipping sauces are always a safe bet, there are also plenty of unique and unusual dipping sauces that can add a different dimension to your pizza eating experience. Here are ten unique dipping sauces to try with your next slice of pizza:
- Barbecue sauce
- Sour cream and onion dip
- Thai peanut sauce
- Truffle aioli
- Mango chutney
- Sriracha mayo
- Blue cheese dressing
- Buffalo sauce
- Cilantro-lime crema
- Honey mustard
If you’re feeling adventurous, try dipping your pizza in some unique and unexpected sauces. For example, a spicy harissa sauce can add a kick to your pizza, while a sweet and tangy tamarind chutney can provide a unique flavor profile.
For those who love a creamy dip, try a roasted garlic hummus or a tangy tzatziki sauce. These dips can add a refreshing and light taste to your pizza, while also providing a healthy alternative to traditional dipping sauces.
Spicy vs Sweet: Which Dipping Sauce Complements your Pizza Toppings?
The type of dipping sauce you choose should also depend on the pizza toppings you prefer. If you prefer spicy toppings like jalapenos or pepperoni, opt for a spicy dipping sauce like hot sauce or buffalo sauce. If you prefer sweet toppings like pineapple or ham, try dipping your pizza in honey mustard or mango chutney to add a touch of sweetness to your slice.
However, if you are feeling adventurous and want to try something new, you can experiment with different dipping sauces to find the perfect match for your pizza toppings. For example, if you have a pizza with a combination of spicy and sweet toppings, you can try a dipping sauce that has a balance of both flavors, like a sweet and spicy chili sauce.
It’s also important to consider the type of crust you have when choosing a dipping sauce. If you have a thin crust pizza, a lighter dipping sauce like marinara or garlic butter may be a better option, as it won’t overpower the delicate crust. On the other hand, if you have a thick, doughy crust, a thicker dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese can complement the heartiness of the crust.
From Ranch to Marinara: Popular Dipping Sauces Ranked by Taste and Nutrition
Choosing a dipping sauce for your pizza is not just about taste but also about nutrition. Some dipping sauces can be high in calories, sodium, or unhealthy fats. Here’s a ranking of popular dipping sauces based on taste and nutrition:
- Marinara sauce: low in calories, sodium, and unhealthy fat
- Ranch dressing: high in calories, sodium, and unhealthy fat
- Garlic butter sauce: high in calories and unhealthy fat
- Pesto sauce: high in calories and unhealthy fat
- Hot sauce: low in calories, sodium, and unhealthy fat
It’s important to note that some dipping sauces may also contain added sugars or artificial ingredients. When choosing a dipping sauce, it’s best to read the label and choose one with simple, natural ingredients. Additionally, you can try making your own dipping sauce at home using fresh herbs, spices, and healthy oils like olive oil. Not only will it be healthier, but it will also taste fresher and more flavorful.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options for Delicious Pizza Dipping Sauces
If you’re vegan or gluten-free, you don’t have to miss out on the fun of dipping sauces for pizza. There are plenty of options available, such as vegan marinara sauce, vegan ranch dressing, and gluten-free pesto sauce that you can pair with your favorite pizza.
Another great option for vegan and gluten-free pizza dipping sauce is hummus. Made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, hummus is a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional pizza sauces. You can also experiment with different flavors of hummus, such as roasted red pepper or garlic, to add some variety to your pizza dipping experience.
How to Pair Wine or Beer with Different Types of Pizza and Sauces
If you’re a wine or beer lover, you may wonder what type of beverage pairs well with pizza and dipping sauces. For savory or slightly spicy pizza, a crisp white wine or light beer is an excellent choice. For meaty or rustic pizzas with rich dipping sauces, a bold red wine or full-bodied beer like an IPA or porter is a great option.
Another great option for pairing with pizza is a sparkling wine or beer. The effervescence of the bubbles can help cut through the richness of the cheese and toppings, making for a refreshing and balanced pairing. Additionally, if you’re enjoying a vegetarian pizza, a light-bodied red wine or wheat beer can complement the flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them.
When it comes to dipping sauces, the type of beverage you choose can depend on the intensity of the sauce. For a mild marinara or tomato-based sauce, a medium-bodied red wine or lager can be a good match. However, if you’re dipping your pizza in a spicy buffalo or barbecue sauce, a hoppy IPA or bold red wine can stand up to the heat and enhance the flavors of the sauce.
Conclusion
As you can see, dipping sauces can completely transform the way you enjoy pizza. From classic marinara to unique dipping sauces, there is a sauce for everyone’s taste preference. Whether you like your pizza plain or loaded with toppings, a good dipping sauce can take your pizza eating experience to another level. Be sure to experiment with different sauces and pairings to find the perfect complement for your next slice of pizza.
It’s not just pizza that can benefit from a good dipping sauce. Many other foods, such as chicken nuggets, french fries, and even vegetables, can be elevated with the right sauce. Don’t be afraid to try out different combinations and find your new favorite dipping sauce.
Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try making your own dipping sauce at home? With a few simple ingredients, you can create a unique and delicious sauce that perfectly complements your favorite foods. Plus, it’s a fun and creative way to experiment in the kitchen and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
