Pizza Margherita is one of Italy’s most iconic and celebrated dishes, admired for its simplicity, balance, and deep cultural roots. Made with just a handful of high-quality ingredients, this classic pizza proves that great food does not need to be complicated. Its colours—red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil—are said to represent the Italian flag, making it a symbol of national pride.
The origins of Pizza Margherita trace back to Naples in the late 19th century, where it was created in honour of Queen Margherita of Savoy. Unlike heavily topped modern pizzas, the authentic version focuses on a thin, airy crust and fresh toppings that complement rather than overpower one another.
This Pizza Margherita recipe follows traditional Italian methods while remaining achievable in a home kitchen. With proper dough preparation and careful baking, you can recreate a truly authentic Italian pizza experience.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus dough resting)
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 2 large pizzas
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough
- 500 g strong bread flour
- 7 g instant yeast
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 325 ml warm water
For the Topping
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes or passata
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to its highest setting (250°C / 480°F) with a pizza stone or tray inside.
- Divide dough into two portions and shape into thin rounds.
- Mix crushed tomatoes with garlic and salt.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough, leaving a small border.
- Add mozzarella evenly and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and top with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Use Italian “00” flour for an even lighter crust if available.
- Avoid overloading the pizza with sauce or cheese.
- Fresh mozzarella should be patted dry to prevent sogginess.
- A cast-iron pan can be used if a pizza stone is unavailable.
- Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a subtle heat variation.
What to Serve With Pizza Margherita
- Simple green salad with lemon dressing
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Sparkling water or Italian soda
Storage & Reheating
Pizza Margherita is best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a hot oven or skillet to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pizza Margherita vegetarian?
Yes, it contains no meat and is traditionally vegetarian.
What cheese is best for authentic Pizza Margherita?
Fresh mozzarella, preferably buffalo mozzarella, is ideal.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours for deeper flavour.
Final Thoughts
Pizza Margherita is a timeless example of Italian culinary excellence. With its crisp crust, fresh toppings, and balanced flavours, it remains one of the most loved pizzas worldwide. This recipe brings authentic Italian tradition into your kitchen and fits perfectly into The Recipe Kitchen’s growing collection of global classics.
