Margherita Pizza
Classic pizza with tomato sauce, fresh 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, with flatbreads topped with various ingredients eaten for centuries around the Mediterranean. However, the modern pizza as we know it, particularly in Naples, evolved from these humble beginnings. The Margherita pizza specifically is said to have originated in 1889 when Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples. A pizzaiolo, Raffaele Esposito, created three pizzas for her, and she favored the one with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, as the colors resembled the Italian flag.
Margherita pizza is a national symbol of Italy, representing its culinary traditions and patriotic colors. It's deeply ingrained in Italian culture as a simple, accessible, and beloved dish enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
National Pride
The pizza's colors mirror the Italian flag (red, white, and green), solidifying its place as a national symbol and a source of pride.
Family Meal
Pizza is often enjoyed as a communal meal, shared with family and friends, fostering a sense of togetherness and celebration.
Neapolitan Tradition
In Naples, the art of making pizza is a serious craft, with strict regulations regarding ingredients and techniques. It is considered a culinary art form, passed down through generations.
The Margherita pizza is defined by its simple yet harmonious combination of fresh, bright, and savory flavors.
The sweet acidity of ripe tomatoes is balanced by the creamy richness of fresh mozzarella. Fresh basil provides a peppery, slightly sweet, and aromatic counterpoint, while a drizzle of olive oil adds a fruity, savory depth. The crust offers a slightly charred, chewy, and subtly yeasty base to complement these flavors.
Ingredient Quality
Use San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce, fresh mozzarella (preferably buffalo mozzarella), and fresh basil for the most authentic and flavorful results. High-quality olive oil is also essential.
Dough Preparation
Allow the pizza dough to rise slowly and properly for optimal flavor and texture. Neapolitan-style pizza dough typically uses '00' flour.
High Heat Cooking
Cook the pizza in a very hot oven (ideally 800-900°F) for a short amount of time to achieve a slightly charred crust and perfectly melted cheese. A pizza stone or steel can help achieve this.
Minimal Sauce
Use a light hand when applying the tomato sauce. Over-saucing can lead to a soggy pizza.
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