Pizza & Friends

Pizza Margherita

⏱ 150 min🍳 20 min👤 4 pp★★★☆☆

Among the many gastronomic specialties of Italy, one of the most beloved and popular worldwide – and certainly one of the most famous, imitated, and re-interpreted in a thousand different ways – is the pizza margherita, first prepared in Naples in honour of the then Queen. In fact, it is a dish that evokes Italian gastronomy in every respect, and is a dish that no Italian in the world - perhaps not only Italians – would ever refuse: pizza! We suggest the classic, and perhaps the most delicious, version, which with its simplicity never ceases to amaze and enrapture those who come across it, especially if it is prepared according to traditional methods with the best ingredients: pizza margherita! With just a few simple ingredients it expresses at its best a gastronomic tradition loved and imitated worldwide. Try this recipe for pizza margherita with us and leave your guests open mouthed in admiration!

Ingredients

Nutritional values 680 kcal / serving

Protein
24g
Carbohydrates
95g
Fat
18g
Fiber
3g

* approximate values per serving

Information
150 minutes Preparation time
20 minutes Cooking time
Serves 4 persons
★★★☆☆ Challenging

Preparation

Prepare the pizza base by combining the flour, water, yeast, salt and sugar. Let the dough rise for at least two hours. Prepare the tomato sauce by mixing the passata with a little sugar, salt and oregano. Cut the mozzarella into cubes. Divide the dough into 4 each of which will make a pizza: roll out the dough into a circular shape and then brush with oil. Spread the tomato sauce on top and sprinkle with the diced mozzarella. Put in the oven for 20 minutes at 180°C. Serve with a few leaves of fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

Tips
In its divine simplicity, the pizza margherita is even more flavoursome if one adds a basil leaf, which should be added only just before serving the pizza, or else the baking process will release a bitter taste.
Trivia
The pizza margherita, which in essence constitutes the invention of the pizza more generally, was created by Raffaele Esposito in Naples to honour the Queen Margherita of Savoy in 1889.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
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Additional information

Pizza Margherita with buffalo mozzarella

One of the most appreciated variations of the classic Pizza Margherita is certainly the one with buffalo mozzarella. This ingredient, typical of Campania, gives the dish an intense and creamy flavor. To prepare this version, simply replace the fior di latte mozzarella with buffalo mozzarella, which melts wonderfully during cooking. The ideal choice is to use Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella, which offers an authentic taste and a unique texture. Remember to drain the mozzarella well before adding it to the pizza, to avoid excess moisture compromising the cooking of the base. The final result will be a pizza with a rich and enveloping flavor, perfect for those who love traditional tastes.

Neapolitan Pizza Margherita

The Neapolitan Pizza Margherita is the symbol of the culinary tradition of Naples. This preparation is distinguished by a thinner and softer dough, achieved through a long fermentation and delicate handling. The technique involves stretching the dough by hand, creating a high and soft crust while the center remains thin. By using fresh, high-quality ingredients, such as San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil, a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity is achieved. Cooking takes place in a wood-fired oven, which gives the pizza a slight smokiness and unparalleled crispness. Tasting a Neapolitan Pizza Margherita is like taking a journey into the culinary culture of Naples.

Light Pizza Margherita with whole wheat dough

For those who want to enjoy Pizza Margherita without guilt, the light version with whole wheat dough is ideal. By using whole wheat flour instead of classic "00" flour, a dough rich in fiber and nutrients is obtained. Additionally, the amount of mozzarella can be reduced, opting for light mozzarella or a plant-based alternative. Another useful tip is to limit the use of oil while still maintaining the right balance of flavor. This variant is not only lighter but also preserves the authentic taste of traditional pizza. Perfect for those following a healthier diet without giving up the pleasure of a good pizza.

Benefits of Pizza Margherita and approximate calories

Pizza Margherita, thanks to its fresh and simple ingredients, offers several nutritional benefits. The tomato puree is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health and skin protection. Additionally, mozzarella provides protein and calcium, important for bone health. The presence of basil not only enriches the dish with flavor but also offers anti-inflammatory properties. In terms of calories, a serving of Pizza Margherita can vary between 250 and 300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portions. By opting for a version with lighter ingredients, it is possible to enjoy this dish without overdoing the calories.

Can Pizza Margherita be frozen?

Yes, it is possible to freeze Pizza Margherita, both cooked and uncooked. If you wish to freeze the already cooked pizza, make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container. This way, it will retain its flavor and texture. For uncooked pizza, it is advisable to freeze the dough before stretching it, or to freeze the already prepared but uncooked pizzas. In both cases, the pizza keeps well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you decide to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator and bake it in the oven for a fragrant and delicious base.