margherita pizza
Margherita pizza recipe with a lighter twist. Discover how to make this classic at home with less guilt and lots of flavor.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to the highest setting (around 250°C/480°F) with a pizza stone or baking tray inside.
- Roll out the whole wheat pizza dough on a floured surface until it forms a thin round base. Transfer to a piece of parchment paper for easier handling.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the pizza base, leaving a small border around the edge.
- Arrange the fresh tomato slices and mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the sauce.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake the pizza carefully on the hot stone or tray for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Add the fresh basil leaves immediately after baking, letting the heat meld their flavor with the pizza.
- Slice and serve right away for the best taste and texture.
Notes
Margherita pizza is a beloved classic that stands out for its balance between simplicity and irresistible flavors. Its popularity lies not only in the harmonious combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a crisp crust, but also in how easily adaptable it is to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Tips to Elevate Your Homemade Margherita Pizza
- For a super crispy crust, preheat your baking stone or tray for at least 20 minutes before sliding the pizza in. If you're using store-bought dough, let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes—it will be much easier to roll out.
- Choose high-quality ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes are essential. If you can’t find buffalo mozzarella, fior di latte or another soft mozzarella works well.
- Brush the crust with a touch of olive oil before baking for an extra golden and flavorful finish.
- Swap tomato sauce for freshly blended tomatoes, seasoned with a pinch of salt and olive oil, for an even lighter touch.
Preparation & Serving Suggestions
- Resist the urge to overload with cheese and sauce. Simplicity is the secret—keep the toppings light so your crust bakes evenly and doesn’t turn soggy.
- Let the pizza rest for 2 minutes after baking—this prevents the cheese from sliding and allows the flavors to meld.
- Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a meal that’s both balanced and satisfying.
- Experiment by adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a creative twist.
