Who knew the key to pizza perfection was as simple as a Classic Margherita with Basil Leaves? This pizza isn’t about fancy toppings; it’s about bold simplicity. With its fresh basil, gooey mozzarella, and tangy tomato sauce, it strikes the perfect balance. If you’re looking to impress your guests without the kitchen theatrics, this timeless pie is your answer.
It’s a pizza that pairs effortlessly with drinks, conversations, and, most importantly, your appetite. Forget the overloaded toppings—sometimes, less is deliciously more. Let’s get this party started the Italian way, with a slice of heaven.
Classic Margherita with Basil Leaves: Timeless Pizza Perfect for Pairing with Party Drinks
A simple yet flavorful Classic Margherita with fresh basil, perfect for pairing with party drinks or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce preferably San Marzano
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
- Add the Sauce: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Add the Cheese: Top the sauce with slices of fresh mozzarella.
- Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or sheet. Bake for 10–15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Add the Basil: Once out of the oven, immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
- Finish with Olive Oil: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and slice to serve.
Notes
Nutritional Values (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
Vitamins and Minerals (per serving)
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 8%
- Vitamin C: 6%
- Potassium: 4%
Additional Notes/Tips to Enhance the Flavor
- For a smoky twist, cook the pizza on a grill instead of in the oven.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Use buffalo mozzarella for a creamier texture.
Servings of the Recipe
4 servings
Estimated Cost of the Recipe
$12 to $15
Prep Time of the Recipe
10 minutes
Cook Time of the Recipe
15 minutes
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe
25 minutes
Which Course Does This Recipe Come Under?
Main course
Which Cuisine Does This Recipe Come Under?
Italian
What Are All the Equipment That Are Required in This Recipe?
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Oven
- Pizza cutter
- Large spoon for sauce
What Are All the Ingredients and Their Quantity That Are Required in This Recipe?
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (preferably San Marzano)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions in Steps
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
- Add the Sauce: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Add the Cheese: Top the sauce with slices of fresh mozzarella.
- Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or sheet. Bake for 10–15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Add the Basil: Once out of the oven, immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
- Finish with Olive Oil: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and slice to serve.
Nutritional Values (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
Vitamins and Minerals (per serving)
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 8%
- Vitamin C: 6%
- Potassium: 4%
Additional Notes/Tips to Enhance the Flavor
- For a smoky twist, cook the pizza on a grill instead of in the oven.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Use buffalo mozzarella for a creamier texture.
