The sign on the wall at Cane Rosso (ilcanerosso.com) in Dallas makes it clear: If you want a side order of ranch dressing with your pizza, be prepared to pay the price—a cool $1,000. When a picture of the sign went viral on the Internet, owner Jay Jerrier, as well-known for his impish humor as for his authentic Neapolitan pies, was quick to point out that it was just a joke. Like most successful restaurateurs, he always strives to give the customers what they want. But many customers take their side dips and sauces quite seriously. Offering a signature dip—for pizza, wings, pita bread or crostini—is a good idea for any pizzeria operator looking for every marketing advantage he can find.

Ingredients

½ c. sour cream
½ c. ricotta cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
2½ tbsp. green habanero hot sauce
2 tsp. Italian herb spice blend
½ tsp. salt
½ c. mozzarella cheese
5 pepperoni slices

 

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, ricotta cheese, garlic, green habanero hot sauce, Italian herb spice blend, salt and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well and transfer to a baking dish of your choice. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the mixture and top with pepperoni. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or adapt timing/temperature for your style of oven.