The Pizza Margherita Recipe is a timeless classic, featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, all baked to perfection on a crisp, homemade pizza crust. Named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, this simple yet flavorful pizza captures the essence of authentic Italian cuisine. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal that everyone will love. The combination of tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves makes Pizza Margherita a favorite for all ages. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or simply craving a taste of Italy, this easy-to-make recipe will bring a slice of Italian goodness to your table.
Why is it Called “Pizza Margherita”?
Pizza Margherita is named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, the queen consort of Italy in the late 19th century. In 1889, during her visit to Naples, a local pizzaiolo (pizza maker) named Raffaele Esposito was tasked with preparing a special dish in her honor. He created a pizza that represented the colors of the Italian flag—red (tomato sauce), white (mozzarella cheese), and green (fresh basil). The Queen loved this pizza, and in recognition of her appreciation, Esposito named it “Pizza Margherita.” The simplicity of ingredients, yet the bold flavors they create, reflect the authenticity and pride of Italian culinary heritage. Pizza Margherita has since become one of the most popular and beloved types of pizza worldwide.
How Should Pizza Margherita Taste?
Pizza Margherita should have a delicate balance of flavors, with each ingredient standing out and complementing the others. The pizza crust should be light and crisp on the outside while still soft and slightly chewy on the inside. The tomato sauce should be tangy and slightly sweet, made with fresh, ripe tomatoes and seasoned with a touch of salt and garlic. The mozzarella cheese should be melted and creamy, creating a rich and luscious texture that pairs perfectly with the tangy tomatoes. The fresh basil leaves add an herbal note that provides a burst of freshness, and a drizzle of olive oil over the top ties all the flavors together. Each bite of Pizza Margherita should be simple yet flavorful, reminding you of the authentic taste of Italy.
How to Make it Super Yummy or Perfect?
To make the best Pizza Margherita, follow these tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil to get the authentic flavor of this classic pizza.
- Preheat Your Oven Well: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible (around 500°F or 260°C) for a crispy crust, just like a traditional pizza oven.
- Stretch, Don’t Roll: Stretch the pizza dough by hand rather than using a rolling pin. This helps keep the crust airy and gives it that perfect Neapolitan texture.
- Don’t Overload the Toppings: Keep the toppings simple. Less is more when it comes to Pizza Margherita—this allows each ingredient to shine without overwhelming the flavor.
- Bake on a Hot Surface: If you have a pizza stone or cast-iron skillet, use it to bake the pizza. A hot surface will help achieve that crispy crust that is characteristic of authentic Pizza Margherita.
Read More: Authentic Pollo alla Cacciatora Recipe: A Flavorful Italian Classic Ready in Just 45 Minutes
Pizza Margherita Recipe
Equipment
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Rolling pin or hands for stretching
- Pizza Cutter
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough ball store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 200 grams fresh mozzarella sliced
- 8-10 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 garlic clove minced
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
Prepare the Dough:
- Roll out or stretch the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to form a 10-12 inch circle.
- Place the dough on a sheet of parchment paper.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the tomato sauce with minced garlic and salt. Mix well.
Assemble the Pizza:
- Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Arrange the sliced mozzarella over the sauce.
- Add fresh basil leaves on top and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake the Pizza:
- Carefully transfer the pizza (with parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a couple of minutes, and then cut into slices.
- Serve hot with an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
- Variation: Add a sprinkle of red chili flakes for some extra heat.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Serving Tip: Serve Pizza Margherita with a side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Pizza Margherita Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a classic Italian dish at home. With fresh ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this pizza is simple yet full of flavor. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special pizza night with friends and family. The combination of tangy tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and aromatic basil will transport you to Italy with every bite. Try this recipe today and experience the authentic taste of Pizza Margherita right in your own kitchen!
