Pizza Margarita
Classic pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, 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.
Parking Pizza
Pizza has ancient roots, evolving from flatbreads enjoyed across the Mediterranean. The modern pizza, with its tomato base, emerged in Naples, Italy, during the 18th century. The Pizza Margherita, specifically, is said to have been created in 1889 by Raffaele Esposito to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy. Its colors—red (tomato), white (mozzarella), and green (basil)—represent the Italian flag.
Pizza Margherita is a national symbol of Italy, representing the country's culinary heritage and simple, high-quality ingredients. It's a staple food enjoyed by people of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Symbol of Italian Identity
The Margherita's colors mirror the Italian flag, making it a patriotic symbol readily associated with Italian culture.
Culinary Simplicity
It exemplifies the Italian culinary philosophy of using fresh, local ingredients to create flavorful dishes without excessive complexity.
Social Food
Pizza is often shared among friends and family, making it a communal and social eating experience deeply ingrained in Italian culture.
The Pizza Margherita boasts a simple yet harmonious flavor profile, highlighting the freshness and quality of its few key ingredients.
The primary flavors are derived from the sweet acidity of the tomato sauce, the creamy richness of the mozzarella cheese, and the aromatic, slightly peppery bite of fresh basil. The crust provides a neutral base, allowing these flavors to shine. A touch of olive oil adds a subtle fruity note and enhances the overall texture.
Use San Marzano Tomatoes
San Marzano tomatoes, grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, are known for their sweetness, low acidity, and meaty texture, making them ideal for pizza sauce.
Fresh Mozzarella is Key
Opt for fresh mozzarella di bufala (buffalo mozzarella) or fior di latte (cow's milk mozzarella). Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella, which often contains additives that prevent it from melting properly.
High Heat is Essential
A very hot oven (ideally 450-500°F or higher) is crucial for achieving a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. A pizza stone or steel can help retain and distribute heat evenly.
Less is More
Don't overload the pizza with toppings. The beauty of a Margherita lies in its simplicity. Too many toppings can make the crust soggy and detract from the balance of flavors.
Explore additional Pizza dishes and restaurants
Explore PizzaDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Barcelona.
Explore BarcelonaLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Spain.
Explore Spain