Indulge in a timeless culinary masterpiece with our Margherita pizza recipe! Delight in the simplicity of fresh basil, vine-ripened tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella atop a perfectly thin and crispy crust. Experience the authentic flavors of Italy in every delicious bite, as you embark on a journey to create this classic masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Classic margherita pizza recipe
Margherita pizza is a classic Italian dish known for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. It typically consists of a thin pizza crust topped with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. The combination of these few high-quality ingredients creates a harmonious blend of flavors, showcasing the essence of Italian cuisine. Named after Queen Margherita of Italy, this pizza was created in the late 19th century and has since become a beloved staple in pizzerias around the world.
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (passata or crushed tomatoes)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the pizza dough's instructions or around 475°F (245°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
- Place the sliced mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the hot pizza.
- Drizzle a bit of extra-virgin olive oil over the top.
- Slice and enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza!Feel free to customize the recipe by adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or even some garlic for extra flavor.
Video
Notes
When making a Margherita pizza, it's important to note that the quality of the ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor. Opt for fresh and high-quality mozzarella cheese, ripe and flavorful tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves. Additionally, using a pizza stone or a baking steel can help achieve a crispier crust. Be cautious not to overload the pizza with too many toppings, as the simplicity is what makes this dish shine. Lastly, make sure to preheat your oven thoroughly to ensure the crust cooks evenly and achieves that desired golden-brown finish.
Nutrition
Serving: 100g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!