Marinara Pizza
San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, extra virgin olive oil. No cheese.
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.
The Marinara pizza's origins are rooted in Naples, Italy. It emerged as a simple, affordable meal for sailors (marinai in Italian), relying on readily available ingredients. Its simplicity reflects the culinary ingenuity of Neapolitan cuisine, which often prioritizes quality ingredients over complexity.
The Marinara pizza represents the essence of Neapolitan pizza culture: simplicity, quality ingredients, and a connection to the sea. It's a testament to the region's culinary heritage and its ability to create delicious food from humble resources.
A Pizza for the People
The Marinara, due to its affordability and simple ingredients, was historically a staple for working-class Neapolitans, including sailors and dockworkers.
Preservation of Tradition
It's a classic example of the Neapolitan pizza-making tradition, emphasizing the importance of using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and following traditional methods.
Vegan-Friendly Heritage
Unintentionally vegan, the Marinara has long been enjoyed by those seeking a simple and plant-based meal, making it a timeless and inclusive option.
The Marinara pizza offers a vibrant blend of tangy, savory, and aromatic flavors. The sweetness of the tomato sauce is balanced by the pungent garlic and herbaceous oregano, all brought together by the richness of the olive oil.
The dominant flavor is the bright acidity of the tomato sauce, ideally made from San Marzano tomatoes. Garlic provides a sharp, pungent note that cuts through the richness. Oregano contributes an earthy, slightly bitter, and aromatic quality. High-quality olive oil adds a fruity and smooth finish, binding the flavors together and enriching the crust. The absence of cheese allows these core ingredients to shine, creating a clean and refreshing taste.
Tomato Selection is Key
Use high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes, or fresh tomatoes in season. Crush them by hand rather than using a blender to preserve texture and flavor.
Garlic Preparation
Finely mince or thinly slice the garlic. Avoid burning it, as this can impart a bitter flavor. Add it after the tomato sauce has slightly cooked down.
Oregano's Aroma
Use dried oregano for a more intense flavor. Rub it between your fingers before sprinkling it on the pizza to release its aroma.
Olive Oil Generosity
Don't be shy with the olive oil! A generous drizzle before and after baking adds richness and flavor.
Crust Perfection
Use a high-quality pizza dough recipe and bake at a high temperature (450-500°F or 232-260°C) for a short period to achieve a crispy yet chewy crust.
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