margarita pizza – A Classic Italian Favorite with Fresh Ingredients

Did you know that a perfectly crafted margarita pizza, featuring tomato, mozzarella, fresh basil, and olive oil, can be ready in under 45 minutes? Forget those hour-long pizza recipes! This fast and flavorful margarita pizza recipe challenges the notion that authentic Italian cuisine requires extensive preparation. Let’s dive into this classic, focusing on achieving that perfect balance of fresh, simple ingredients for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients

This recipe yields two 12-inch pizzas.

• Dough: (You can use store-bought or make your own – recipe below)

  • 2 cups (250g) strong bread flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 tsp (4g) active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp (6g) sugar
  • 1 tsp (5g) salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm water
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil

• Sauce:

  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• Toppings:

  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced thinly
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Substitutions: Feel free to swap the San Marzano tomatoes for high-quality canned crushed tomatoes. If you’re lactose-intolerant, try using dairy-free mozzarella alternatives. For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of fresh and dried basil.

Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (excluding dough preparation)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes (significantly faster than the average 60-minute pizza recipe!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough (if making from scratch): Combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let it rise in a warm place for at least an hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer intensifies the flavors.

3. Preheat & Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to its maximum temperature (usually around 500°F or 260°C). If using a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven as well. This high heat will give you that crispy crust.

4. Shape the Pizza: Divide your dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each half into a 12-inch circle. Don’t worry about perfection; a rustic look is charming!

5. Assemble the Pizza: Transfer the pizza dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread half of the tomato sauce evenly over each pizza base, leaving a small border. Top with slices of mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add red pepper flakes if desired.

6. Bake: Carefully place the pizzas in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve Immediately: Remove the pizzas from the oven and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Slice and serve immediately while enjoying the aroma of fresh basil and the molten mozzarella.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – One 12-inch pizza, halved)

• Calories: Approximately 450-500 (this will vary based on dough and cheese type)
• Fat: 20-25g
• Protein: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 50-60g

Note: This is an estimated nutritional breakdown. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.

Healthier Alternatives for the Margarita Pizza Recipe

To make this classic healthier, consider using whole wheat flour for the dough, reducing the amount of cheese, and adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also use a lighter hand with the olive oil. For a lower-calorie option, consider using a thinner crust.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your margarita pizza hot and fresh for optimal enjoyment. Offer a side of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of tanginess. A simple arugula salad or a caprese salad complements the pizza beautifully. Consider serving with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-saturating the crust: Too much sauce weighs down the crust and prevents crispiness.

• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients significantly impact the overall flavor.

• Underbaking or overbaking: Monitor carefully to achieve the perfect golden-brown crust and completely melted cheese.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftover pizza should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan until warm or in the oven until it’s back to its original deliciousness.

Conclusion

This classic margarita pizza recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. With fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal in under 40 minutes. Try this recipe and let us know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes!

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-made pizza dough?

A: Absolutely! Pre-made pizza dough is a convenient alternative, especially if you’re short on time.

Q: How can I make the crust crispier?

A: Preheating your oven and pizza stone to maximum temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. You can also try par-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings.

Q: Can I add other toppings?

A: While a true margarita pizza only uses tomato, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil, feel free to experiment with other toppings to personalize your pizza.

Q: How do I prevent a soggy bottom?

A: Ensure your oven is sufficiently hot, and use a pizza stone or baking sheet for even cooking. Avoid using too much sauce.

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🍕 Margherita Pizza – Classic Italian Simplicity at Its Best

This Margherita Pizza showcases the beauty of simple ingredients: a crisp yet chewy crust, fresh tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Perfect for pizza night or a cozy weekend dinner, this Italian classic delivers fresh flavor and elegance in every bite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 12 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 8 slices

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Rolling pin (optional)
• parchment paper
• Oven or pizza oven
• Pizza peel (optional)

Ingredients

  

For the Dough (makes 1 12-inch pizza):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup warm water 110°F / 45°C
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pizza Toppings:

• ½ cup crushed San Marzano tomatoes or quality canned tomatoes
• 1 clove garlic minced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil plus more for drizzling
• 6 –8 oz fresh mozzarella preferably mozzarella di bufala or bocconcini, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves 8–10 leaves

Instructions

 

Step 1 – Prepare the Dough:

• In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
• Stir in flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
• Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 45–60 minutes, or until doubled.

Step 2 – Preheat Oven:

• Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C). Place a pizza stone inside if using.

Step 3 – Make the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, mix crushed tomatoes with garlic (if using), salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Set aside.

Step 4 – Assemble the Pizza:

• Roll or stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle.
• Transfer to parchment paper or a floured pizza peel.
• Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the base.
• Top with mozzarella slices.
• Bake for 10–12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
• Remove from oven, top with fresh basil, and drizzle with olive oil.

Notes

Use a pizza stone for the crispiest crust.

Don’t overload with sauce or cheese – Margherita pizza is about balance.

Add basil after baking to preserve its flavor and color.

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