Classic Margherita Pizza recipe

A Timeless Italian Masterpiece

Experience the quintessential flavors of Italy with the iconic Margherita Pizza, a timeless masterpiece that embodies the simplicity and elegance of Neapolitan cuisine. This classic recipe, named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, combines the sweetness of San Marzano tomatoes, the creaminess of fresh mozzarella, and the brightness of fragrant basil leaves, all atop a crispy, hand-stretched crust. With its origins dating back to 1889, this beloved pizza has remained unchanged, and its harmonious flavors continue to delight pizza lovers around the world. Get ready to taste the authentic essence of Italy with every bite of this Classic Margherita Pizza!

Ingredients:

- 1 1/2 cups (190g) warm water

- 2 teaspoons (10g) active dry yeast

- 3 1/2 cups (450g) all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt

- 2 tablespoons (30g) extra-virgin olive oil

- 1 cup (250g) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand

- 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until yeast is activated.

2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

5. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) with a baking stone or baking sheet.

6. Punch down the dough and shape into a 12-inch (30cm) circle or rectangle.

7. Place the dough on the preheated stone or baking sheet.

8. Spread the crushed tomatoes over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch (1cm) border around the edges.

9. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese.

10. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

11. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil leaves (if using).

12. Slice and serve immediately!

Note: Traditional Margherita Pizza uses San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Here is a rough nutritional chart for a serving of margherita pizza, based on the assumption that each pizza has eight slices:

Per serving (1 slice, approx. 120g):

- Calories: 250-300

- Protein: 15-20g

- Fat: 10-12g

    - Saturated fat: 3.5-4.5g

- Carbohydrates: 30-35g

    - Fiber: 4-5g

- Cholesterol: 20-25mg

- Sodium: 400-500mg

Breakdown:

- Crust (60g): 120-150 calories

- Tomato sauce (40g): 20-25 calories

- Mozzarella cheese (40g): 100-120 calories

- Fresh basil (5g): negligible calories

Please note that this is an estimate, as exact values depend on specific ingredient brands and measurements. Additionally, Margherita Pizza can vary in portion sizes and ingredients, affecting calorie counts. This chart serves as an approximate guide.

Keep in mind that serving sizes and calorie counts can vary depending on the specific recipe and cooking methods used.