Margherita pizza

Margherita Pizza – Classic and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15-17 minutes
Total time: 30-32 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Margherita Pizza is undoubtedly one of the most well-known and loved dishes around the world. With deep roots in culinary history, this simple yet refined pizza was created in 1889 by chef Raffaele Esposito in honor of the Queen of Italy, Margherita di Savoia. The ingredients used – tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil – symbolize the colors of the Italian flag. This recipe is perfect for a relaxing family evening or to impress friends at a party. Let’s discover together how we can recreate this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients

- Pizza dough: 1 portion (you can find it in my previous recipes)
- Tomatoes: 300 g, ripe, peeled, and seeded (or 300 ml tomato juice)
- Mozzarella: 250 g (preferably pizza-specific mozzarella, not in whey)
- Grated Parmesan: to taste
- Dried or fresh basil: to taste
- Oregano: optional, to taste
- Olive oil: for drizzling

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the dough: If you don’t have the dough ready, follow my recipe to make it at home. Make sure it is well risen and elastic. This is the perfect base for your pizza.

2. Stretching the dough: On a clean surface, sprinkle a little flour and stretch the dough with a rolling pin or your hands until you achieve a circular or rectangular shape, depending on the tray you have. Try to make the edges a bit thicker to form a delicious crust.

3. Preparing the sauce: If using fresh tomatoes, peel and seed them. Then, you can puree them with a blender to achieve a smooth paste. If opting for tomato juice, ensure it is high quality, without additives. In a bowl, mix the sauce with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.

4. Assembling the pizza: Grease the tray with a little olive oil and place the stretched dough. Using the back of a spoon, evenly spread the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a little space at the edges for the delicious crust.

5. Seasoning: Sprinkle dried basil or, if you have it, finely chopped fresh basil. If desired, add a little oregano for extra flavor.

6. Baking the pizza: Preheat the oven to maximum temperature (usually 250-300°C) and place the pizza in the oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove the tray.

7. Adding mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella into cubes and evenly sprinkle it over the pizza. Place the pizza back in the oven for another 4-7 minutes, until the cheese melts and starts to turn golden.

8. Finishing: Once the pizza is ready, remove it from the oven and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top, if desired. Let it cool slightly before cutting.

Serving and suggestions

Serve Margherita pizza warm, garnished with a few fresh basil leaves for a special touch. This pizza pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a glass of dry white wine. It can also be accompanied by a refreshing lemonade, ideal for warm days.

Tips and variations

- Dough: You can experiment with different types of flour (e.g., whole wheat or spelt flour) to achieve a different texture.
- Additions: If you want to add a personal touch, try adding a few slices of olives, peppers, or mushrooms.
- Cheeses: Substitute mozzarella with goat cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Sauce: Try adding crushed garlic or a few drops of chili sauce to the tomato sauce for an extra kick.

Nutritional benefits

Margherita pizza can be a healthy option when prepared at home. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, while mozzarella contains quality protein. Olive oil brings healthy fats, and basil is a source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough? Yes, store-bought pizza dough is a quick and convenient option. Just make sure to choose a quality product.

2. How do I know if the pizza is ready? The pizza is ready when the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and starting to brown.

3. Can I freeze the pizza? Yes, the pizza can be frozen. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

4. What is the best mozzarella for pizza? Look for low-moisture mozzarella, specially designed for pizza, to achieve the perfect texture.

Conclusion

Margherita Pizza is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an explosion of flavors. Preparing this recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of history and tradition to your meals. So put on your apron and let your creativity shine in the kitchen! Enjoy!