Delicious Margarita Pizza Recipe

The Margarita Pizza is a delightful dish that balances simplicity and flavor, drawing on fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal. Known for its classic toppings of cheese, tomato, and basil, this pizza captures the essence of Italian cuisine. The crust is both crispy and soft, thanks to a perfect dough that rises beautifully after resting. The inclusion of mozzarella cheese makes for a gooey topping, melting perfectly alongside the fresh tomatoes. Adding basil at the end enhances the aroma and brings a fresh note. With just a few steps, you can create this at home, enjoying a slice that embodies culinary tradition. This recipe is ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks, offering room for creative toppings if desired. You can easily make it your signature dish with a few tweaks to the toppings or crust. The sauce, cheese, and tomatoes blend beautifully, enticing any pizza lover.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1.25 g yeast - 1.25 tsp
• 20 g sugar - 1 tbsp
• 200 g flour
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp salt
• Grated cheese
• Mozzarella
• Tomatoes
• Basil

Preparation Time

60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Mixing the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, sugar, and some warm water. Allow it to activate for about five minutes, forming bubbles on the surface.
2. Creating the Dough: Add flour, oil, and salt into the yeast mixture. Stir until it forms a rough dough.
3. Kneading: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes until the texture is smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to the highest temperature, placing a baking tray in to heat.
6. Roll Out the Dough: Once doubled in size, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface until thin.
7. Setting the Base: Carefully transfer the dough to the hot baking tray, ensuring the dough doesn't tear.
8. Adding the Sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the surface, leaving a bit of a border for the crust.
9. Topping with Cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the tomato sauce for a savory base.
10. Mozzarella Application: Add slices of mozzarella, spacing them evenly for a uniform melt.
11. Tomato Arrangement: Scatter fresh tomato slices on top of the cheese for vibrant flavor and texture.
12. Pop in the Oven: Place the pizza on a lower rack and bake for about 5 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese bubbly.
13. Final Garnish: Upon removing from the oven, finish with fresh basil leaves for aroma and freshness.
14. Ready to Serve: Slice and serve hot with optional olive oil drizzle.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use whole wheat flour for a healthier crust option.
• Dough Consistency: If too sticky, add a bit more flour while kneading.
• Extra Crispy Crust: Preheat the baking tray for an even crisper base.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 270 per slice
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fats: 10g

Variations

• Vegan Version: Swap cheeses with vegan options and add extra veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour mix to cater to dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the Margarita Pizza with a fresh garden salad and a glass of Italian red wine for a complete meal.
• Garnish with parmesan shavings for extra flavor.

Best Places

• Pizzeria Da Michele - Known for its authentic take on traditional pizza. Location: Via Cesare Sersale, Naples, Italy.
• Gino Sorbillo - Offers vibrant flavors in a bustling atmosphere. Location: Via dei Tribunali, Naples, Italy.
• L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele - Famous for a simplistic approach with unparalleled taste. Location: Via Cesare Sersale, Naples, Italy.
• Piperno - Serves delicious Roman-style pizza with delicate crust. Location: Via Monte dè Cenci, Rome, Italy.
• Pizzarium - Offers gourmet toppings and artisanal dough. Location: Via della Meloria, Rome, Italy.
• Il Pizzaiolo - Combines traditional methods with modern flavors. Location: Rue Mercière, Lyon, France.
• La Montecarlo - Beloved spot for locals craving a classic pizza. Location: Vicolo Savelli, Rome, Italy.
• Pizza Pilgrims - Celebrated for its classic Neapolitan flavors. Location: Dean Street, London, UK.
• Rudy's - Artisan pizzas with a keen focus on quality ingredients. Location: Peter Street, Manchester, UK.
• Mamma Dough - Sustainable practices with a wide range of toppings. Location: Brighton Road, London, UK.