Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. pizza dough
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Pizza peel or flat surface for transferring pizza to oven
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
2. Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface to desired thickness.
3. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange sliced mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese and season with salt and pepper.
6. Using a pizza peel or flat surface, transfer the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the pizza.
9. Slice and serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C)
Serving size:
1 pizza (serves 2-3 people)
Nutritional information:
Calories: 800
Fat: 40g
Carbohydrates: 70g
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 1200mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pizza dough: store-bought or homemade
- Tomato sauce: canned or homemade
- Fresh mozzarella cheese: shredded mozzarella cheese or other cheese of choice
- Fresh basil leaves: dried basil or other herbs of choice
Variations:
- Add toppings such as sliced tomatoes, garlic, or olives.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as Parmesan or goat cheese.
- Make a gluten-free version using a gluten-free pizza crust.
Tips and Tricks:
- Preheat the pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven for at least 30 minutes to ensure a crispy crust.
- Use a pizza peel or flat surface to transfer the pizza to the oven to prevent it from sticking or falling apart.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent the cheese from sliding off.
Storage Instructions:
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat leftover pizza in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the pizza on a wooden board or pizza stone for a rustic look.
Garnishes:
Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Pairings:
Pair with a light salad or a glass of red wine.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the crust is too thick or doughy, roll it out thinner next time.
- If the cheese is not melted enough, bake the pizza for a few more minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling food.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure the pizza reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness.
Food History:
The Margherita pizza was created in Naples, Italy in 1889 and was named after Queen Margherita of Savoy.
Flavor Profiles:
The Margherita pizza is a classic combination of tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot and fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Tangy, Cheesy, Tomato, Herbaceous, Balanced, Tomato-Y