Pizza Margherita
Pizza with mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil.
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 Senna
Pizza's origins can be traced back to ancient flatbreads consumed in various Mediterranean cultures. However, the modern pizza as we know it, with its tomato base, began to take shape in Naples during the 18th century. The Margherita pizza itself is said to have originated in 1889, when Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples.
Pizza Margherita holds a significant place in Italian culture, not only as a culinary staple but also as a symbol of national pride and simplicity. It represents the colors of the Italian flag and embodies the Neapolitan philosophy of using few, high-quality ingredients.
Symbol of Naples
Pizza is deeply rooted in Neapolitan culture. Margherita pizza, in particular, is viewed as a quintessential Neapolitan creation, showcasing the region's culinary heritage.
Italian Flag
The red (tomato), white (mozzarella), and green (basil) of the Margherita pizza are often interpreted as representing the colors of the Italian flag, making it a patriotic dish.
UNESCO Recognition
The art of Neapolitan 'Pizzaiuolo' (pizza making) has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its cultural importance and preservation efforts.
The Margherita pizza is characterized by its simple yet elegant flavor profile, highlighting the freshness and quality of its core ingredients.
The dominant flavors are the tangy sweetness of the tomato sauce, the creamy richness of the mozzarella cheese, and the fresh, aromatic basil. The crust provides a slightly chewy and sometimes charred base, adding textural contrast. High-quality olive oil drizzled on top enhances the overall richness and flavor.
Use San Marzano Tomatoes
San Marzano tomatoes, grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, are considered the gold standard for pizza sauce due to their sweetness, low acidity, and meaty texture.
Fresh Mozzarella is Key
Opt for fresh mozzarella di bufala (buffalo mozzarella) if possible, or a high-quality fior di latte (cow's milk mozzarella). Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting and flavor.
High Heat is Essential
Pizza Margherita benefits from being cooked at a very high temperature (800-900°F) for a short period (60-90 seconds) to achieve a slightly charred crust and perfectly melted cheese. A pizza oven is ideal, but a preheated pizza stone in a conventional oven can also work.
Don't Overload the Pizza
The beauty of Margherita pizza lies in its simplicity. Avoid overloading it with toppings, as this can make the crust soggy and detract from the balance of flavors.
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