Margherita Recipe

 

The Pizza Margherita is one of the most iconic dishes of Italian cuisine, celebrated for its simplicity and authentic flavors. With a thin crust topped with fresh tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil, this pizza reflects the colors of the Italian flag. Originally created in Naples, the Margherita remains a timeless favorite that embodies the true spirit of traditional Italian cooking.

Ingredient

For the Simple Sauce:

For the Pizza:

Cooking Steps

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Place a pizza stone or steel on the middle or upper rack of your oven.
2. Preheat the oven to its highest temperature setting (500°F/260°C or higher) for at least 30 minutes to allow the stone/steel to become scorching hot.

Step 2: Prepare the Simple Sauce

1. Open the can of San Marzano tomatoes and pour the contents into a bowl.
2. Use your hands to gently crush the tomatoes until they reach a slightly chunky, sauce-like consistency.
3. Stir in the 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sea salt, and minced garlic (if using). Set aside.

Step 3: Stretch and Top the Dough

1. On a well-floured surface, gently stretch the pizza dough into a round shape (about 10-12 inches), keeping the dough thin in the center and leaving a slightly thicker rim for the crust.
2. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet dusted with flour or cornmeal.
3. Spread a very thin layer of the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Avoid over-saucing, as it can make the dough soggy.
4. Distribute the torn or sliced fresh mozzarella pieces evenly across the sauce.
5. Drizzle the pizza lightly with a little more extra virgin olive oil.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Carefully slide the pizza (using the peel or baking sheet) onto the preheated pizza stone/steel.
2. Bake for 6-10 minutes, depending on your oven temperature, until the crust is puffed and golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Remove the pizza from the oven.
2. Immediately scatter the whole fresh basil leaves over the hot pizza.
3. Slice, and serve right away.

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Extra Tips for a Perfect Margherita

• Basil Timing: Always add the fresh basil after the pizza comes out of the oven. If added before, the heat will turn it black and bitter.
• The Mozzarella: Pat the fresh mozzarella slices with a paper towel before using them. This removes excess moisture and prevents the center of the pizza from becoming too wet.
• High Heat: The hotter the oven, the better the crust. If your oven doesn't reach 500°F, use a pizza stone or steel to help achieve that crispy, airy texture.

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Nutritional Value 

Approximate (per 1/4 of a pizza)

Benefits 

• ✅ Fresh & Nutritious: Made with natural ingredients like tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella.
• ✅ Good Source of Protein & Calcium: Thanks to the mozzarella cheese.
• ✅ Rich in Antioxidants: Fresh tomatoes and basil provide vitamins and immune-boosting properties.
• ✅ Authentic & Light: Unlike heavy pizzas, the Margherita is wholesome yet satisfying.
• ✅ Vegetarian-Friendly: Perfect for those who want a meat-free but flavorful option.

The Pizza Margherita is more than just a dish—it’s a cultural treasure that highlights the beauty of Italian cuisine. With its delicate balance of flavors and high-quality ingredients, it delivers comfort, freshness, and tradition in every bite. Whether enjoyed at a pizzeria in Naples or baked at home, the Margherita remains the ultimate expression of pizza at its purest.