Description
This authentic Margherita pizza recipe captures the essence of traditional Italian flavors with its simple yet delicious combination of fresh ingredients. With a crispy crust, tangy San Marzano tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this pizza is a classic favorite for any pizza lover.
Ingredients
Scale
Pizza Dough:
- 1 ball (about 12 oz) pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
Sauce:
- 1/2 cup crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- 1–2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Toppings:
- 6–8 ounces fresh mozzarella (sliced or torn)
- Fresh basil leaves
- All-purpose flour or cornmeal for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 500°F or as high as it will go, and place a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet inside to heat.
- Prepare the Dough: On a floured surface, stretch or roll out the pizza dough into a 10–12 inch round. Transfer the dough to a sheet of parchment paper for easy handling.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, stir the crushed tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and oregano if using. Spread the sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add Toppings: Top with slices of fresh mozzarella, spacing them out for even melting.
- Bake the Pizza: Carefully slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto the hot stone or pan and bake for 7–10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For the most authentic result, use high-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella di bufala.
- If using a pizza oven, cook at 700–900°F for 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 pizza
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
