Greetings, pizza pioneers! Brian Hernandez here, ready to pull your menu out of the standard pizza orbit and set it on a course for saucy exploration. Let’s be honest—same-old marinara on every pie? That’s about as thrilling as a holodeck rerun.
If you had a Star Trek replicator, would you just ask for plain marinara every time? Why settle for replicating the usual duty roster of sauces when you can create something truly unique? Whether it’s a fiery, Klingon-level chili sauce, a creamy garlic blend that’s as smooth as Riker’s charm, or a zingy pesto with the power to stun, it’s all about making your pizza the one that can’t be replicated.
Before you grab those ladles, know that each of these sauces was chosen for three key reasons: flavor (because if it doesn’t knock your socks off, why serve it?), ease of prep (sauce shouldn’t be rocket science), and cost-effectiveness (because no one wants their budget shot out of the nearest airlock). These saucy selections will bring fresh twists to your pizzas, putting you light years ahead of the competition without busting the bank or burning out your crew.
So set a course for the first star to the left, and straight on ‘til flavor, maximum warp. Engage.
1. Sriracha Mayo
Flavor: 9/10
Ease of prep: 8/10
Cost-effectiveness: 7/10
Combining the creamy richness of mayo with the heat of sriracha, this sauce is perfect for drizzling on pizzas with Asian-inspired toppings like pork belly and scallions.
Why it works: Sriracha mayo adds a creamy texture and heat that can set you apart. It’s perfect for fusion pizzas, especially for foodies who like experimenting with flavors. And don’t be afraid to add other elements like fruits for different flavors and texture profiles.
2. Romesco Sauce
Flavor: 9/10
Ease of prep: 6/10
Cost-effectiveness: 5/10
Hailing from Spain, Romesco combines roasted red peppers, nuts and vinegar for a smoky, nutty flavor. It’s tailormade for seafood pizzas or roasted veggies. Try it with a glass of Andorian brandy to heighten the experience.
Why it works: Exotic but versatile, Romesco offers a unique twist to pizzas for chefs that want to break the mold. A wee bit more expensive, but for the right clientele, it’s a win.
3. Spicy Arrabbiata
Flavor: 8/10
Ease of prep: 7/10
Cost-effectiveness: 8/10
Arrabbiata brings the heat with its chili-spiked tomato sauce, making it a beloved option for those who enjoy a kick. Pair it with pepperoni or spicy sausage.
Why it works: Arrabbiata is a fiery option for those who like their pizza with a kick. There’s not much extra cost involved, but it definitely adds heat to your menu. It pairs best with a chilled Romulan Ale.
4. Mole Sauce
Flavor: 7/10
Ease of prep: 5/10
Cost-effectiveness: 4/10
Mole sauce is complex, rich and slightly sweet, made with chilies, chocolate and spices. It pairs wonderfully with chicken, onions and cilantro.
Why it works: This one is a more unusual option for adventurous eaters, but also definitely more expensive and labor-intensive. It’s niche but could stand out for special occasions or as a limited-time offer.
(Adobe Stock / Adrian)
5. Puttanesca Sauce
Flavor: 8/10
Ease of prep: 7/10
Cost-effectiveness: 6/10
Puttanesca sauce is a bold and briny blend made with tomatoes, olives, capers and garlic. Its robust flavor pairs wonderfully with anchovies or spicy sausage, making for a rich and savory pizza experience.
Why it works: It adds a unique, intense flavor profile, perfect for customers looking for something beyond the ordinary. Even the grumpiest Klingon would be happy to indulge in this robust dish.
6. Cacio e Pepe Sauce
Flavor: 9/10
Ease of prep: 7/10
Cost-effectiveness: 6/10
Inspired by the classic Roman pasta dish, this sauce combines pecorino cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for a creamy, indulgent topping. It’s perfect for a simple pizza with just cheese and herbs.
Why it works: Cacio e Pepe sauce offers a rich, comforting flavor that’s familiar yet elevated, ideal for cheese lovers.
7. Béchamel Sauce
Flavor: 8/10
Ease of prep: 5/10
Cost-effectiveness: 6/10
Béchamel, a classic French white sauce made from milk, flour and butter, adds a creamy texture to any pizza. It works wonderfully with toppings like ham and mushrooms.
Why it works: Béchamel provides a rich, creamy base that can elevate a pizza to gourmet status. It brings together unique & diverse flavors, just like the crew of the Enterprise. But don’t eat them. They’re people. You don’t eat people.
8. Green Sauce (Chimichurri)
Flavor: 8/10
Ease of prep: 7/10
Cost-effectiveness: 7/10
Chimichurri is a vibrant Argentine sauce made from parsley, garlic, vinegar and oil. It adds a fresh, herby kick that complements grilled meats and veggies.
Why it works: It’s bright and flavorful, offering a unique twist that sets your pizza apart. It’s ideal for customers and/or crew members with diverse tastes from different planets, or states, or whatever.
9. Sweet and Sour Sauce
Flavor: 7/10
Ease of prep: 8/10
Cost-effectiveness: 6/10
This sauce offers a tangy sweetness that pairs well with toppings like pineapple, chicken or ham. It can create a fun and unique pizza experience.
Why it works: It’s a fun, playful option for those looking to try something out of the ordinary, as well as a unique and tasty way to showcase the galactically maligned topping earthlings call pineapple.
10. Tzatziki Sauce
Flavor: 8/10
Ease of prep: 7/10
Cost-effectiveness: 6/10
Tzatziki is a refreshing Greek sauce made from yogurt, cucumber and garlic. It adds a cool, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with Mediterranean toppings like lamb, feta or grilled vegetables.
Why it works: Tzatziki sauce will be a hit with your vegetarian or health-conscious customers. It’s smooth, flavorful and offers a new twist for pizzas without meat. Your Vulcan clientele will especially love it.
So there you have it, pizza pioneers—a saucy arsenal that’ll keep your pies from entering the neutral zone of flavor. Whether you’re keeping it simple with marinara or venturing into new territory with mole or Romesco, your customers will enjoy a delightful culinary experience. And with the right food and drink pairings, you’ll have them coming back for more!
Until next time, keep slingin’ that dough, and remember: In the battle of flavor, your sauce is your greatest ally. Use it wisely!
Brian Hernandez is PMQ’s test chef, coordinator of the U.S. Pizza Team and resident Trekkie.
