Joe Roshkovsky
Margherita Pizza: The Classic Italian Delicacy with a Fresh Twist
The Margherita Pizza is a classic Italian dish that boasts a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. Named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, this pizza is a delicious combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, representing the colors of the Italian flag. This version adds a fresh twist by incorporating a blend of cheeses and a hint of garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup tomato sauce (preferably homemade or high-quality store-bought)
2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shredded Fontina cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cornmeal (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone inside if you have one. This helps in achieving a crispier crust.
2. Prepare the dough:
If you’re using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a circular shape about 1/4 inch thick. If using homemade dough, follow your recipe instructions up to the rolling step.
3. Prepare the pizza peel:
Lightly dust a pizza peel or a baking sheet with cornmeal to prevent the dough from sticking.
4. Add the sauce and cheese:
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the sauce. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese evenly on top, followed by sprinklings of Parmesan and Fontina cheeses.
5. Bake the pizza:
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
6. Add the finishing touches:
Remove the pizza from the oven. Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the top, scatter the fresh basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve:
Allow the pizza to cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the fresh, aromatic flavors of this timeless Margherita Pizza.
This Margherita Pizza with its blend of cheeses and hint of garlic offers a delightful upgrade to a beloved classic. Perfect for a casual meal or a special dinner, it’s sure to impress with its fresh and vibrant taste. Bon appétit!
