Classic Margherita Pizza with Fresh Herbs
Indulge in a slice of Italian culinary tradition with this delightful Classic Margherita Pizza. This dish flaunts a perfectly baked thin crust that serves as the canvas for vibrant layers of flavor. Infused with aromatic extra virgin olive oil and freshly chopped garlic, the pizza is topped with succulent, garden-fresh tomatoes and a scattering of creamy shredded mozzarella cheese. Bright basil leaves are added for a touch of fragrant zest, harmonizing beautifully with the savory sprinkle of Parmesan. Each bite is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients, making this pizza not only a comforting meal but also the perfect accompaniment to a chilled beer on warm summer evenings. Inspired by a scrumptious experience at Small Bar in Chicago, this homemade version is sure to impress your family and friends alike!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Thin pizza crust
12 inches (Use a pre-made crust like Boboli 12-inch thin crust.)
Extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon (Use for drizzling on the crust.)
Garlic cloves
2 (Finely chopped.)
Fresh basil leaves
3-4 large (Cut into strips.)
Tomatoes
2 small (Cut thinly.)
Mozzarella cheese
4 ounces (Shredded.)
Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons (For sprinkling on top.)
Kosher salt
to taste (For seasoning the tomatoes.)
Black pepper
to taste (For seasoning.)
Crushed red pepper flakes
to taste (Optional, for added heat.)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is key to achieving a perfectly crispy crust.
2
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the pizza crust. Utilizing a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, spread the oil to ensure full coverage, including the edges.
3
Sprinkle the finely chopped garlic evenly across the surface of the crust to infuse flavor.
4
Generously distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese over the crust, ensuring an even layer while keeping it relatively thin.
5
Arrange the thinly sliced tomatoes in a uniform manner over the cheese, allowing their natural juiciness to seep into the pizza.
6
Gently season the tomatoes with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance their flavors.
7
Scatter the fresh basil strips over the entire pizza, ensuring they sit on both the cheese and tomatoes for maximum freshness.
8
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 9-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, crispy, and the cheese is bubbling.
9
As soon as you remove the pizza from the oven, sprinkle it with Parmesan cheese and if desired, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
10
Slice into six pieces, serve hot, and enjoy your homemade Classic Margherita Pizza with a refreshing beer!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this pizza recipe?
The recipe is for a Classic Margherita Pizza with Fresh Herbs.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 6 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 450 degrees Fahrenheit or 232 degrees Celsius.
How long does the pizza need to bake?
The pizza should bake for 9 to 10 minutes.
What kind of crust is recommended for this recipe?
A 12-inch thin crust is recommended, such as a Boboli pre-made crust.
How much olive oil is required?
You need 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The two garlic cloves should be finely chopped and sprinkled evenly over the crust.
What type of cheese is used as the main topping?
The main topping is 4 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese.
How should the tomatoes be prepared?
Use 2 small tomatoes and cut them into thin slices.
When do you add the fresh basil?
Scatter the fresh basil strips over the pizza before placing it in the oven.
How should the basil leaves be cut?
The 3 to 4 large basil leaves should be cut into thin strips.
What seasonings are used for the tomatoes?
The tomatoes are seasoned with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
When should the Parmesan cheese be applied?
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese over the pizza immediately after removing it from the oven.
Is there an optional ingredient for extra heat?
Yes, crushed red pepper flakes can be added for a touch of heat.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by a meal at Small Bar in Chicago.
What is the culinary category of this dish?
This dish is categorized as European cuisine.
What is the best way to spread the olive oil?
Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to spread the oil evenly to the edges.
How many pieces should the pizza be sliced into?
The pizza should be sliced into six pieces.
What beverage is suggested to pair with this pizza?
It is suggested to serve this pizza with a refreshing chilled beer.
How thick should the mozzarella layer be?
The mozzarella should be distributed in an even but relatively thin layer.
Why is a high oven temperature necessary?
A high temperature is key to achieving a perfectly crispy crust.
What are the visual cues that the pizza is done?
The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling.
What type of salt is specifically mentioned?
Kosher salt is used to enhance the flavor of the tomatoes.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and ideal for busy schedules.
What are the primary flavors in this pizza?
The primary flavors come from aromatic garlic, extra virgin olive oil, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.
How many garlic cloves are used?
The recipe calls for 2 garlic cloves.
What are the main tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include pizza, margherita, italian, basil, tomato, mozzarella, summer, quick meals, and comfort food.
Is this a thin crust or thick crust recipe?
This is a thin crust pizza recipe.
Can I use a pre-made crust?
Yes, the recipe suggests using a pre-made crust like a Boboli 12-inch thin crust.
Does this recipe include nutritional information?
The current recipe data does not provide specific calorie or macronutrient counts.