Pizza Margherita
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.
Pizza has ancient roots, evolving from flatbreads consumed in various Mediterranean cultures. In Naples, Italy, pizza became popular among the working class, topped with simple ingredients. The Margherita pizza, specifically, is said to have originated in 1889, when pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito created it in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy, using ingredients representing the colors of the Italian flag.
Pizza Margherita holds immense cultural significance in Italy, representing national pride and culinary simplicity. It's more than just a dish; it's a symbol of Italian heritage and a celebration of fresh, local ingredients.
National Symbol
The Margherita pizza is often viewed as a patriotic symbol due to its colors mirroring the Italian flag: red (tomato), white (mozzarella), and green (basil).
Neapolitan Tradition
In Naples, where it originated, Pizza Margherita is a fundamental part of the city's culinary identity and a source of local pride. Strict regulations govern its preparation to maintain its authenticity.
Family and Sharing
Pizza is often enjoyed in a communal setting, emphasizing family and togetherness. Sharing a pizza is a common social experience in Italian culture.
Pizza Margherita embodies a balance of simple yet vibrant flavors, derived from fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The flavor profile is primarily defined by the sweet and acidic tomato sauce, complemented by the creamy, milky mozzarella cheese. Fresh basil adds a fragrant, slightly peppery note that enhances the overall taste. The crust, ideally slightly charred and chewy, provides a subtle, earthy backdrop.
Ingredient Quality
Use San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce, fresh mozzarella di bufala if possible, and fresh basil leaves. The quality of the ingredients significantly impacts the final flavor.
Crust Preparation
Allow the dough to proof properly for optimal flavor and texture. Use a high-heat oven or a pizza stone to achieve a crispy crust.
Baking Temperature
Pizza Margherita requires a high baking temperature (ideally above 450°F or 230°C) to cook quickly and achieve a slightly charred crust.
Simplicity
Resist the urge to add extra toppings. The beauty of Pizza Margherita lies in its simplicity. Overloading it can detract from its classic flavor profile.
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