Margherita Pizza
Margherita Pizza is a classic Italian pizza named after Queen Margherita of Italy. With its simple yet iconic combination of fresh ingredients—tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—Margherita Pizza represents the colours of the Italian flag: red, white, and green. This timeless pizza has become a symbol of Italian culinary excellence and is beloved for its delicious simplicity.
Origin and History
Margherita Pizza's origin can be traced back to Naples, Italy, in the late 19th century. The pizza was created to honour Queen Margherita during her visit to Naples in 1889. The renowned pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito crafted a pizza featuring ingredients that represented the colours of the Italian flag, and the Margherita Pizza was born. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil became a classic, setting the standard for traditional Neapolitan pizza.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the pizza dough.
Yeast: Leavens the dough, creating a light and airy crust.
Water: Combines with the flour and yeast to form the dough.
Pizza Toppings:
San Marzano Tomatoes: A specific variety of tomatoes known for their sweetness and low acidity.
Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: High-quality, soft mozzarella that melts beautifully.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Adds a fragrant and aromatic element.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Drizzled over the pizza for flavor and richness.
Salt: Sprinkled for seasoning.
Optional Garnish:
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savoury and nutty flavor.
Preparation
Pizza Dough:
Prepare Dough:
Combine flour, yeast, and water to form the pizza dough.
Knead the dough until smooth and allow it to rise until doubled in size.
Shape Pizza Dough:
Roll out the dough into a thin, round shape, creating the pizza base.
Pizza Assembly:
Prepare Toppings:
Crush San Marzano tomatoes and spread them over the pizza dough.
Tear or slice fresh mozzarella and distribute evenly.
Scatter fresh basil leaves on top.
Bake:
Bake the pizza in a preheated oven or pizza oven until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finish:
Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the hot pizza.
Optionally, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve:
Slice and serve the Margherita Pizza hot, allowing the flavours to shine.
Serving Suggestions
Margherita Pizza is often enjoyed on its own, allowing the simplicity of the ingredients to be savoured. It pairs well with a light salad, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add extra depth to the flavor profile.
Variations
Margherita with Burrata: Add creamy burrata cheese for a luxurious twist.
Whole Wheat Margherita: Use whole wheat flour for the pizza dough for a heartier crust.
Grilled Margherita Pizza: Cook the pizza on a grill for a smoky flavor.
