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Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe: Simple, Fresh, and Delicious

Margherita Pizza is a classic Italian pizza made with fresh mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and aromatic basil on a crispy crust. This Best Margherita Pizza Recipe is easy to make and showcases the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. With a golden-brown crust and a perfect balance of flavors, this pizza is a delicious choice for any occasion. Serve it hot, and enjoy the taste of authentic Italian pizza in your own kitchen!

Best Margherita Pizza Recipe
Margherita Pizza Recipe

A Classic Italian Favorite

Margherita Pizza is the epitome of simplicity and flavor in Italian cuisine. This Best Margherita Pizza Recipe showcases the perfect balance between a crispy, golden crust and the fresh, vibrant toppings of mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes. With just a few fresh ingredients and an easy-to-make dough, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser that brings the authentic taste of Italy to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or simply craving a classic Italian dish, Margherita pizza is always a great choice.

What is Margherita Pizza?

Margherita Pizza is a traditional Italian pizza that consists of a thin crust, topped with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. The simple yet rich combination of ingredients is said to represent the colors of the Italian flag—red (tomatoes), white (mozzarella), and green (basil). The pizza was named after Queen Margherita of Savoy in the late 1800s, who was said to favor this particular combination of toppings. Since then, it has become a staple in Italian pizzerias worldwide.

Best Margherita Pizza Recipe
Margherita Pizza Recipe

How Should Margherita Pizza Taste?

A perfect Margherita Pizza should have a crispy and slightly chewy crust, with a light layer of tangy tomato sauce that complements the creamy mozzarella. The fresh basil adds an aromatic freshness, and the drizzle of olive oil enhances the richness of the flavors. Each bite should offer a harmonious balance of the simple ingredients, allowing the natural flavors of the tomatoes, cheese, and herbs to shine through.

Read More: Vibrant Primavera Pasta Recipe: Fresh Vegetables and Light Italian Flavors

Tips for Making the Best Margherita Pizza

To ensure your Best Margherita Pizza Recipe turns out perfect every time, follow these essential tips:

  1. Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella cheese is softer and more flavorful than pre-shredded mozzarella. Slice it into thin pieces to ensure it melts evenly across the pizza.
  2. Choose Ripe Tomatoes or Tomato Sauce: For the best flavor, use high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce, or ripe fresh tomatoes if they’re in season. The tomatoes should be slightly sweet and tangy, adding richness to the pizza.
  3. Preheat Your Oven and Pizza Stone: For a crispy crust, it’s crucial to preheat your oven to a high temperature (475°F or higher) and use a pizza stone or baking sheet. This ensures the pizza cooks evenly and the crust gets the perfect golden-brown texture.
  4. Don’t Overload the Toppings: Keep the toppings minimal to allow the dough to cook properly and maintain the balance of flavors. Too many toppings can result in a soggy crust.
  5. Bake on Parchment Paper: If you’re using a pizza stone, assembling the pizza on parchment paper makes it easier to slide the pizza into the oven without losing shape. It also helps prevent sticking.
Best Margherita Pizza Recipe

Margherita Pizza Recipe

Margherita Pizza is a classic Italian pizza made with fresh mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and aromatic basil on a crispy crust. This Best Margherita Pizza Recipe is easy to make and showcases the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. With a golden-brown crust and a perfect balance of flavors, this pizza is a delicious choice for any occasion. Serve it hot, and enjoy the taste of authentic Italian pizza in your own kitchen!
Prep Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Pizza stone or baking sheet
  • Rolling Pin
  • Pizza Cutter

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 cup warm water 110 F/ 45 C
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Toppings:

  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella sliced
  • 2 medium tomatoes thinly sliced
  • 8-10 fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • 1. Prepare the Pizza Dough
    In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
    Mix to form a dough, then knead for 8-10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
    Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
    2. Preheat the Oven
    Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 475°F (245°C) for at least 30 minutes to ensure it’s very hot for baking.
    3. Shape the Dough
    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions (if making two pizzas).
    On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle or your desired thickness.
    Carefully transfer the rolled dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured pizza peel.
    4. Assemble the Pizza
    Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
    Add sliced fresh mozzarella evenly across the pizza.
    Place the tomato slices on top of the mozzarella.
    Tear or leave the fresh basil leaves whole, then scatter them on the pizza.
    5. Bake the Pizza
    Slide the pizza (along with the parchment paper if using) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
    Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
    Drizzle the pizza with extra virgin olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired.
    6. Serve
    Slice and serve the Margherita pizza hot. Enjoy with a light salad or as a perfect Italian-style snack!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality olive oil are key to achieving an authentic Margherita pizza.
  • Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour during kneading.
  • Pizza Stone: Using a pizza stone creates a crispier crust. If you don’t have one, a preheated baking sheet works well too.
  • Homemade Tomato Sauce: If you have time, make your own sauce by blending San Marzano tomatoes with a pinch of salt, olive oil, and fresh garlic for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Margherita Pizza is the perfect dish for those who appreciate the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients. This Best Margherita Pizza Recipe offers an authentic Italian experience, with a crisp crust, rich tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and the fresh aroma of basil. Whether you’re making pizza for a family dinner, a party, or simply to satisfy your cravings, Margherita pizza never disappoints. Try this classic recipe, and enjoy a slice of Italy at home!

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