Introduction
Margherita pizza, a classic Italian dish, is renowned for its simplicity and fresh flavors. This recipe brings together the vibrant taste of San Marzano tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all atop a beautifully baked crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, making Margherita pizza at home is both rewarding and delicious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 (28-ounce) can whole San Marzano tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
– 2 small garlic cloves
– ½ teaspoon sea salt
– Cornmeal, for stretching the dough
– 1 pound pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, torn or thinly sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
– Red pepper flakes, for sprinkling
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 to 12 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 2 to 4
This Margherita pizza recipe is straightforward and can be enjoyed fresh from the oven. The extra tomato sauce can be saved for future use, making this a convenient option for pizza lovers. Enjoy the rich flavors and simplicity of homemade pizza!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 500°F (260°C).
Prepare the tomato sauce
In a food processor, combine the canned tomatoes with their juices, 2 teaspoons of olive oil, garlic cloves, and sea salt. Blend until smooth.
Prepare the dough
Dust a baking sheet with cornmeal. Place the pizza dough on the sheet and stretch it into a large oval shape.
Assemble the pizza
Spread a heaping ½ cup of the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the stretched dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Top with the torn or sliced fresh mozzarella cheese.
Bake
Transfer the assembled pizza to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust is browned and the cheese is melted.
Add final toppings
Remove the pizza from the oven. Top with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil.
Serve
Slice and serve the pizza hot.
Notes
This recipe yields extra tomato sauce. Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Cook techniques
Preheating the oven
Preheating the oven to a high temperature (500°F or 260°C) is essential for achieving a crispy crust. Ensure the oven is fully heated before placing the pizza inside.
Preparing tomato sauce
Using a food processor to blend canned tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and salt creates a smooth sauce. This technique enhances the flavors and ensures even distribution on the dough.
Stretching the dough
Dusting the baking sheet with cornmeal and stretching the dough into a large oval shape allows for easy transfer and prevents sticking. Use your hands or a rolling pin to achieve the desired thickness.
Assembling the pizza
Evenly spreading the sauce and topping with fresh mozzarella creates balanced flavors. Leaving a 1-inch border is crucial for a proper crust when baking.
Baking the pizza
Baking the pizza at a high temperature for 10 to 12 minutes ensures a golden brown crust and melted cheese. Keep an eye on the pizza to prevent overcooking.
Adding final toppings
Adding fresh basil and red pepper flakes after baking enhances flavor and presentation. Drizzling with olive oil adds richness and a finishing touch.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like provolone or gouda, but mozzarella is traditional for a Margherita pizza.
How can I make the dough from scratch?
You can make pizza dough by mixing flour, water, yeast, and salt, allowing it to rise before stretching it out.
What temperature should I bake the pizza at if I don’t have a 500°F oven?
If your oven doesn’t reach 500°F, bake the pizza at the highest temperature available, ideally 475°F (245°C), and extend the baking time as necessary.
How do I store leftover tomato sauce?
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with additional toppings like olives, bell peppers, or pepperoni as per your preference.
Conclusion
Margherita Pizza is a timeless classic that showcases the simplicity and quality of fresh ingredients. By combining a rich tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this pizza offers a delicious balance of flavors that is sure to delight your taste buds. It’s perfect for a casual dinner or a celebratory gathering. Enjoy making this dish at home and relish the authentic taste of Italy.
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