She Strengthens

The Authentic Taste of Italy: Uncovering the Secrets of Margherita Pizza

For pizza enthusiasts seeking an authentic Italian experience, understanding the differences between a Margherita pizza and a cheese pizza is crucial. While both are beloved Italian classics, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart.

A Slice of History

Legend has it that the Margherita pizza was created in the late 1800s by Neapolitan pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito to showcase the colors of the Italian flag: tomatoes (red), mozzarella (white), and basil (green). This iconic combination has been perfected over time, with the highest quality ingredients being the key to its success.

The Neapolitan Way

A traditional Margherita pizza boasts a simple sauce made from crushed fresh tomatoes or canned San Marzano tomatoes, topped with only mozzarella di bufala, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. The crust is thin and crispy, cooked quickly at high temperatures in a wood-fired oven. This attention to detail is what sets it apart from its cheese pizza counterpart.

Cheese Pizza: A Delicious Alternative

While cheese pizzas may not follow the strict guidelines of a traditional Margherita, they are still a delicious option. With a greater variety of cheeses and no visible sauce, cheese pizzas offer a unique flavor profile. Fresh mozzarella can be used, but regular packaged mozzarella is also a great option.

7 Recipes to Try at Home

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Margherita or a creative cheese pizza, we’ve got you covered. Check out our seven recipes below and get ready to taste the difference:

1. Whole Wheat Margherita Pizza

Add a nutritious twist to the classic recipe with whole wheat flour. Thinly sliced fresh basil leaves and whole-milk mozzarella keep this pizza true to its Italian roots.

2. Potato and Cheese Pizza

Smoked mozzarella, garlic, and sliced raw potatoes create a unique flavor combination perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.

3. Four-Cheese Pizza

San Marzano crushed tomatoes form the base of this rich pizza, topped with fresh mozzarella, Gorgonzola, fontina, and Parmesan.

4. Pizzetta 211 Margherita Pizza

This homemade Margherita recipe recommends using a pizza stone for an extra crispy crust. Make the dough ahead of time for a quick and easy dinner.

5. Pizza Margherita

Detailed steps guide you through the dough-making process, with a baking stone recommended for a golden brown crust. Add fresh basil after cooking for a pop of color.

6. Bacon and Egg Pizza

Why not have pizza for breakfast? Thick-cut bacon, crumbled goat cheese, and sliced yellow onion pair perfectly with two eggs cracked on top.

7. Pizza Margherita (Roberta’s Restaurant Adaptation)

This adapted recipe from Roberta’s restaurant in Brooklyn features a light coating of cheese and sauce, finished with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh torn basil leaves.