Ingredients
- 500g pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 200g tomato sauce (San Marzano if possible)
- 250g fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 250°C (480°F). Stretch or roll out pizza dough on a floured surface into 2 medium bases.
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly over each base, leaving a 1–2 cm border for the crust.
Arrange mozzarella slices evenly and add a few basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
Bake on a preheated pizza stone or tray for 10–15 minutes until the crust is blistered and cheese is bubbling.
Remove from oven, add fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Slice and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving: Approximately 600 calories
Good source of protein and calcium from mozzarella; balanced energy from the crust.
Chef's Tips for Perfect Pizza
- Very hot oven: The hotter, the better — it creates leopard spots on the crust like in Naples.
- Use a pizza stone: It helps retain heat and crisps the base faster.
- Less is more: Keep toppings minimal for the classic Margherita experience.
- Fresh basil: Add right after baking to keep the flavor bright.
The Story Behind This Recipe
Margherita Pizza was created in Naples in 1889 in honor of Queen Margherita. The combination of tomato, mozzarella and basil represents the colors of the Italian flag and celebrates the simple excellence of Italian ingredients.