Pizza Margherita – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Italy Region / Locale: Italian Servings: Serves 4
Italy Region / Locale: Italian Servings: Serves 4Originating from Naples, Italy, Pizza Margherita is a classic dish that epitomizes simplicity and flavor. This pizza is steeped in history, created to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy with its vibrant colors reflecting the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. It’s a culinary masterpiece that showcases high-quality, fresh ingredients to produce an authentic and flavorful experience.
Ingredients
- 00 flour – 2 cups / 240 g
- water – 3/4 cup / 180 ml
- active dry yeast – 1 tsp / 3 g
- salt – 1 tsp / 5 g
- canned tomatoes – 1 can (14 oz / 400 g)
- fresh mozzarella – 8 oz / 225 g
- fresh basil leaves – handful
- extra virgin olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix 00 flour, water, active dry yeast, and salt to form a dough. Knead until smooth and elastic.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to its highest setting, ideally 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone inside if available.
- Crush canned tomatoes by hand and spread evenly over the rolled-out dough base.
- Tear mozzarella into chunks and place evenly across the pizza.
- Add fresh basil leaves and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
- Bake the pizza for about 10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese has melted and bubbled.
Substitutions
- 00 flour -> all-purpose flour
- fresh mozzarella -> buffalo mozzarella
- canned tomatoes -> fresh tomatoes, blended
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Consider using a longer fermentation time for the dough for a richer flavor.
- Experiment with whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes for a more authentic taste.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the tomato sauce if you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
