Today, we want to talk to you about the history of Margherita pizza, one of the most famous and beloved dishes of our culinary tradition.

Jun 16, 2023

The pizza margherita is one of the most famous and beloved dishes in Italian cuisine. Its history dates back to the late 19th century, when Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples and requested to try the local pizza.

The Origins of Pizza Margherita

At the time, pizza was considered a humble food for the working class, and it was typically sold by street vendors. However, the Queen was so impressed by the pizza she tried that she asked for a variety to be made in her honor.

The pizzaiolo (pizza maker) Raffaele Esposito was tasked with creating a pizza that would represent Italy's colors: red (tomato), white (mozzarella), and green (basil). He came up with a simple yet delicious recipe that consisted of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves.

The Ingredients of Pizza Margherita

The ingredients of pizza margherita are simple, yet crucial to its success. The tomato sauce should be made with San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweetness and low acidity. The mozzarella cheese should be fresh and made from buffalo milk, which gives it a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor. The basil should be fresh and fragrant, and it should be added to the pizza after it comes out of the oven.

The Popularity of Pizza Margherita

The pizza margherita quickly became popular in Naples and beyond, and it is now one of the most popular types of pizza in the world. Its simplicity and deliciousness have made it a favorite among pizza lovers everywhere.

Over the years, many variations of pizza margherita have been created, but the original recipe remains the most beloved. Some pizzerias add extra toppings, such as olives or mushrooms, but purists argue that these additions detract from the simplicity and purity of the original recipe.

The Perfect Pizza Margherita

Making the perfect pizza margherita requires skill and attention to detail. The dough should be made with high-quality flour and allowed to rise slowly, which gives it a light and airy texture. The tomato sauce should be seasoned with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar, which balances out the acidity of the tomatoes. The mozzarella cheese should be sliced thinly and distributed evenly over the pizza, and the basil should be torn into small pieces and scattered over the top.

pizza making

In Conclusion

The pizza margherita is a true Italian classic that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people all over the world. Its simple yet delicious recipe is a testament to the beauty of Italian cuisine, and it is a dish that will continue to be loved and enjoyed for generations to come.

In our restaurant, you can taste the traditional version of Margherita pizza, with fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and basil. You can choose to eat it outside or in our air-conditioned indoor dining room, where you can relax and enjoy the pleasure of excellent pizza.

We're proud to offer our customers a pizza made with high-quality ingredients and the passion for Italian cuisine that sets us apart. We look forward to a night of good taste and company in our restaurant.

See you soon!