When it comes to party food, Margherita Pizzas with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil are a no-brainer. They’re simple, yet they act like you put in some serious culinary effort. Perfect for those who want to impress their guests without breaking a sweat. The fresh basil adds a touch of elegance, while the olive oil gives it that Italian grandma-approved authenticity. And, of course, it pairs perfectly with whatever cold beverage you’re serving—beer, wine, or even that sad soda left over from last week. Consider this pizza your new go-to for effortless party hosting.
Margherita Pizzas with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil: Perfect Party Food to Pair with Fresh Beverages
Ingredients
- 2 pizza dough balls store-bought or homemade, your call
- 1 cup tomato sauce use a good quality one
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese sliced thin
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves about 10–12 leaves per pizza
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin for that rich flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 475°F (245°C). Place your pizza stone inside if using.
- Roll the dough: On a floured surface, roll each dough ball into a thin circle. Don’t worry about making it perfect.
- Top with sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over each pizza base.
- Add cheese: Lay the mozzarella slices evenly across the pizzas.
- Bake: Transfer the pizzas to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- Finish with basil: Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Finish with a generous drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Slice and serve: Use your pizza cutter to slice, and serve hot.
Notes
Nutritional Values (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Calcium: 20%
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Iron: 8%
- Potassium: 4%
Additional Notes/Tips
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or garlic powder on the pizza.
- If you want a crispier crust, bake the pizza directly on a preheated stone.
Summary of the Recipe
A classic Margherita pizza with fresh basil and olive oil that’s perfect for any gathering.
Servings of the Recipe
Makes 2 pizzas, which can serve 4–6 guests, depending on how greedy they are.
Estimated Cost of the Recipe
Around $12–$15, cheaper than ordering in and far more satisfying.
Prep Time of the Recipe
15 minutes of prep, because good things take a little time.
Cook Time of the Recipe
15 minutes in the oven—quick enough to get back to mingling.
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe
30 minutes from dough to deliciousness.
Course
Main course. This isn’t an appetizer; it’s the star.
Cuisine
Italian. Obviously.
Equipment Required
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Rolling pin (or a wine bottle if you’re improvising)
- Oven (duh)
- Pizza cutter (or a sharp knife)
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients & Quantities Required
- 2 pizza dough balls (store-bought or homemade, your call)
- 1 cup tomato sauce (use a good quality one)
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced thin)
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves (about 10–12 leaves per pizza)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for that rich flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 475°F (245°C). Place your pizza stone inside if using.
- Roll the dough: On a floured surface, roll each dough ball into a thin circle. Don’t worry about making it perfect.
- Top with sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over each pizza base.
- Add cheese: Lay the mozzarella slices evenly across the pizzas.
- Bake: Transfer the pizzas to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- Finish with basil: Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Finish with a generous drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Slice and serve: Use your pizza cutter to slice, and serve hot.
Nutritional Values (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Calcium: 20%
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Iron: 8%
- Potassium: 4%
Additional Notes/Tips
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or garlic powder on the pizza.
- If you want a crispier crust, bake the pizza directly on a preheated stone.
