Pizza Margherita
Tomato sauce, mozzarella.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Pizza Margherita's creation is often attributed to 1889, when Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples. Baker Raffaele Esposito of Pizzeria Brandi supposedly created three different pizzas for her, with the Queen favoring the one topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, representing the colors of the Italian flag. While the story is romanticized and its complete accuracy is debated, it symbolizes the pizza's connection to Italian national identity.
Pizza Margherita is deeply embedded in Italian culture, representing simplicity, tradition, and national pride. It is a ubiquitous and beloved dish enjoyed across generations and regions.
National Symbol
The pizza's colors (red, white, and green) mirror the Italian flag, making it a symbolic representation of Italian national identity and culinary heritage.
Culinary Tradition
Pizza Margherita represents the essence of Neapolitan pizza-making, emphasizing simple, high-quality ingredients and traditional baking techniques.
Social Gathering
Pizza is often enjoyed in a social setting, shared among friends and family, symbolizing community and togetherness.
Pizza Margherita offers a simple yet vibrant flavor profile, highlighting the fresh, clean tastes of its primary ingredients.
The base tomato sauce provides a bright, slightly acidic sweetness that balances the richness of the mozzarella. Fresh mozzarella, traditionally fior di latte or buffalo mozzarella, contributes a creamy, milky flavor and a soft, slightly chewy texture. Fresh basil adds an aromatic, slightly peppery note, completing the flavor profile and providing a visual contrast. The crust offers a slightly charred, subtly yeasty base that grounds the other flavors.
Quality Ingredients
Use San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce, fresh fior di latte or buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil for the best flavor.
Dough Preparation
Allow the pizza dough to rise slowly for optimal flavor and texture. Cold fermentation is key for a great dough.
Oven Temperature
Bake the pizza at a high temperature (ideally in a wood-fired oven) for a crispy crust and melted cheese. If using a home oven, preheat it to the highest possible temperature and use a pizza stone or steel.
Less is More
Avoid overloading the pizza with toppings. Pizza Margherita is about simplicity and allowing the flavors of the ingredients to shine.
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