Classic Margherita Pizza

The Classic Margherita Pizza is a classic Italian dish that celebrates simplicity and high-quality ingredients. The toppings are uncomplicated yet incredibly flavorful, consisting of San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and aromatic basil leaves. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a pinch of sea salt elevate the flavors, making each bite a culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate authenticity and are looking to recreate the magic of Italian pizzerias in their own kitchen.

How to prepare Classic Margherita Pizza

INGREDIENTS

For the Dough:

• 1 pizza dough ball (about 250g), homemade or store-bought

For the Toppings:

• 1/2 cup San Marzano tomato sauce
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• A handful of fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• A pinch of sea salt

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to its highest setting, ideally 250°C (480°F). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating. If you don't have a pizza stone, place a baking sheet to the oven to preheat.

2. Prepare the Pizza Base: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a pizza peel.

3. Add the Toppings: Evenly spread the San Marzano tomato sauce over the pizza base, leaving a small border around the edges. Distribute the sliced mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Scatter the fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt.

4. Bake the Pizza: Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 5-7 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

5. Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it sit for a minute before slicing. Serve immediately and enjoy your Easy Margherita Pizza!

6. Dobar tek!

NOTE: Try our Foolproof Pizza Dough Without Yeast. It is easy and delicious!

How to Serve and Pair:

Serving options: Classic Margherita Pizza is best served hot, straight from the oven. Slice it into wedges and enjoy the gooey mozzarella and crispy crust. This pizza pairs wonderfully with a light salad, like a mixed greens or arugula salad, to complement its richness.

Pairing: When enjoying Classic Margherita Pizza, a delightful dish characterized by its fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and tangy tomato sauce, consider these beverage options to complement its distinct flavors:

1. Chianti Classico: This specific sub-region of Chianti produces wines with a great balance of tannins and acidity, perfect for cutting through the richness of the mozzarella cheese.
2. Friuli Pinot Grigio: A wine from the Friuli region in Italy, known for its crisp acidity and citrus notes, will complement the tangy tomato sauce and fresh basil.
3. Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier: A German wheat beer with subtle notes of banana and clove that can harmonize beautifully with the herbal and cheesy elements of the pizza.
4. Perrier with a Twist of Lemon: The effervescence of Perrier sparkling water, with a fresh lemon twist, offers a palate-cleansing effect between bites of the pizza.
5. San Pellegrino Aranciata Rossa: This blood orange Italian soda, with its balance of sweetness and bitterness, echoes the vibrant flavors of the pizza while adding a refreshing twist.
6. Earl Grey Iced Tea: The bergamot orange flavor of Earl Grey tea provides a unique floral and citrus note that can bring out the fresh basil and tomato flavors in the pizza.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian: This Margherita Pizza is naturally vegetarian, making it a great choice for those following a meat-free diet.
• Gluten and Dairy Concerns: The recipe includes gluten (in the dough) and dairy (mozzarella cheese). For gluten-free needs, use a gluten-free pizza dough. For dairy-free or vegan diets, substitute with vegan cheese and ensure your dough is vegan-friendly.
• Calories: The calorie content largely depends on the dough and cheese used. Generally, a slice of Margherita Pizza ranges from 200-300 calories.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Dough Preparation: You can prepare the pizza dough ahead of time. Keep it wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage. Thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Try our Foolproof Pizza Dough Without Yeast. It is easy and delicious!
• Prepping Toppings: Slice the mozzarella and prep the basil leaves in advance. Store the cheese in the refrigerator and keep the basil leaves in a damp paper towel.

Cleaning Tips:

• Post-Cooking Oven Care: If you used a pizza stone, let it cool completely before brushing off any flour or crumbs. Avoid using water on a pizza stone, as it can crack when heated.
• Countertop Cleanup: After rolling out the dough, scrape off any stuck dough with a bench scraper or spatula and wipe the surface with a damp cloth.