A traditional tomato-based pizza sauce is delicious, but it can be fun to spice up your menu with unexpected flavors. It’s easy to find inspiration for innovative sauces from other ethnic cuisines, bases other than tomato, and delicious foods that aren’t sauces at all. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Cream-Based Sauces

Alfredo tastes as great on pizza as it does on pasta. Try pairing an alfredo sauce with a grilled chicken topping or a green vegetable like spinach. Fresh garlic adds an extra flavor punch. Try a light sprinkling of parmesan cheese instead of mozzarella.  

Creamy pesto is another rich, unique sauce to change up your pizza routine. This beautiful green sauce works nicely with vegetables such as tomatoes and mushrooms—consider adding a sprinkling of pine nuts for texture. Love meat? Try crumbled Italian sausage as the perfect complement to this basil sauce.

Borrowing From Other Cultures

Pizza might be Italian, but that doesn’t mean you can’t branch out to other cuisines for inspiration. Consider creating a Mexican pizza with a fresh salsa base. Top with black beans, jalapenos, onions, and queso fresco. You can make it mild or spicy with different types of peppers or meaty by adding ground beef browned in chili powder.

You could also take a tip from Southern cuisine and start with a layer of barbecue sauce. Top it with a cheddar and mozzarella mix and your favorite barbecued meat like pulled pork or beef brisket.

Non-Sauce Sauces

Sometimes a spread makes the best pizza sauce. Try a thin layer of hummus or baba ghanoush for a Greek-inspired dish filled with flavor. Diced tomatoes, red onions, thinly sliced gyro meat, and a sprinkle of feta cheese make for a Mediterranean pizza you won’t soon forget. Add an extra pop of flavor with a drizzle of tzatziki.

Tonight, leave dinner to the pros at Crico's Pizza & Subs in Gulf Shores, AL. Their pizza, subs, and chicken wings are made from fresh, delicious ingredients and served dine-in, carryout, or right to your door. Whether you’re having a party or a family night in, this locally owned restaurant has tasty and affordable deals. Call (251) 948-3100 to order takeout or delivery. Check out their mouthwatering menu online.