Neapolitan Margherita Pizza

Introduction

The Neapolitan Margherita Pizza is a dish that captures the heart of Italy in every bite. With its blistered crust, fresh mozzarella, vibrant tomato sauce, and aromatic basil leaves, it represents simplicity at its finest. This pizza is not only a meal but also an experience—one that has been cherished in Naples for centuries.

History

Legend says that the pizza was first made in 1889 in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy, featuring the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. Since then, it has become a symbol of Naples and Italian culinary pride, celebrated around the world.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Authentic Neapolitan pizza uses 00 flour for a delicate, chewy crust, San Marzano tomatoes for a sweet and tangy sauce, and fresh buffalo mozzarella for richness. If these aren’t available, you can substitute bread flour, high-quality canned tomatoes, and cow’s milk mozzarella. Fresh basil is non-negotiable—it provides the herbaceous lift that balances the richness of cheese and tang of tomato.

Tips and Preparation

For best results, use a pizza stone or steel preheated in a very hot oven, ideally over 475°F, or even better, a wood-fired oven. Stretch the dough by hand rather than using a rolling pin to preserve air bubbles that make the crust light and airy. Bake quickly at high heat to achieve the characteristic leopard spotting on the crust.

Serving

Serve immediately after baking to enjoy the melty cheese and crispy yet chewy crust. A drizzle of olive oil just before serving enhances the flavors beautifully. Pair with a crisp Italian white wine or sparkling water for an authentic experience.

Print Recipe

Authentic

Neapolitan Margherita Pizza

Cooking Method: Baking Cuisine: Italian Courses: Main Course Recipe Keys: B budget-friendly Q quick meal T traditional

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 120 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 2 hrs 10 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 720

Dietary:

V Vegetarian

Description

Classic Neapolitan pizza with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.

Main Ingredients

Servings

• 0 flour 500g
• 325ml water
• 7g dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 200g San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)
• 250g fresh mozzarella
• fresh basil leaves
• olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour and salt gradually, knead dough until smooth and elastic.
3. Cover and let dough rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.
4. Preheat oven with pizza stone at 475°F (245°C).
5. Stretch dough into a thin round base by hand.
6. Spread crushed tomatoes over base, add torn mozzarella, and top with basil.
7. Bake for 7–10 minutes until crust is golden with charred spots.
8. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 720kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 20g31%

Total Carbohydrate 95g32%

Protein 30g60%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Best enjoyed straight out of the oven for maximum flavor and texture.

Keywords: Neapolitan pizza, Margherita pizza, Italian classic, homemade pizza, wood-fired pizza