How to Make Margherita Pizza with Authentic Italian Flavor at Home

How to Make Margherita Pizza with Authentic Italian Flavor at Home If you’ve ever dreamed of making a pizza that’s simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor, then Margherita pizza is the one to try. This classic Italian favorite is all about letting the ingredients shine—perfectly golden crust, zesty tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s so easy and delicious; you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner! This recipe serves two people, making it perfect for a casual date night or an indulgent dinner for one with leftovers. Here’s what you need: 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, about 250g) 1 cup crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano for authenticity) 1 tsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling ¼ tsp salt 1 clove garlic, finely minced 150g fresh mozzarella, sliced Fresh basil leaves, to taste (about 6-8 leaves) Optional: pinch of dried oregano Let’s start with the sauce. In a small bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and minced garlic. This no-cook sauce captures the boldness of the tomatoes and the aroma of fresh garlic without overpowering the other ingredients. The goal is to keep it light and vibrant to balance the richness of the cheese. Next, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven for an extra-crispy crust. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to about 10-12 inches in diameter. For a classic Neapolitan look, make it a bit thinner in the center with a thicker edge for that iconic Margherita pizza feel. Transfer your rolled dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a stone. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top, leaving small gaps so the cheese melts and bubbles beautifully. Add a few fresh basil leaves, saving some to garnish after baking for an extra burst of freshness. Bake the pizza for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and slightly browned. When you pull it out, drizzle a little olive oil on top and add the remaining basil leaves. This simple finishing touch elevates the flavors and gives you that pizzeria-quality experience right at home. Thinking about making your Margherita pizza a masterpiece? Share what special twist or toppings you’d add to this classic pizza! #MargheritaPizzaMagic #ClassicItalianPizza #PizzaNight