Pizza Margherita

Margherita Pizza: A Royal Delight Born from Legends and Simplicity

Published on 2023-08-19

Amidst the myriad of pizza varieties that tantalize our taste buds, one classic reigns supreme: the Margherita pizza. This iconic dish carries a history as rich as its flavors, with a royal legend at its core. Join me on a journey to uncover the origin, ingredients, and some remarkable episodes related to this timeless favorite.

The Name and the Legend

The Margherita pizza’s name is a tribute to Queen Margherita of Italy, who reigned during the late 19th century. The legend goes that in 1889, pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito from Naples was commissioned to create a special pizza to honor the queen’s visit. Drawing inspiration from the colors of the Italian flag, he concocted a masterpiece featuring red tomatoes, white mozzarella cheese, and green basil leaves. This patriotic and delectable creation not only delighted Queen Margherita’s palate but also earned its place in culinary history.

The Ingredients

True to its royal origins, the Margherita pizza boasts simplicity and authenticity. Its foundation is a thin, hand-stretched crust made from flour, water, yeast, and a touch of salt. The sauce comprises San Marzano tomatoes, renowned for their exquisite flavor. Fresh mozzarella cheese covers the base, melting into a creamy, gooey goodness when baked. Finally, aromatic basil leaves are scattered on top, infusing the pizza with a burst of herbal freshness.

Remarkable Anecdotes

1. The Queen’s Seal of Approval

When Queen Margherita expressed her fondness for the pizza made in her honor, she essentially endorsed the Margherita pizza as a national treasure. This royal endorsement elevated the humble dish to the heights of popularity and recognition it enjoys today.

2. Pizzaioli Pride

The creation of the Margherita pizza ignited a sense of competition among pizzaioli (pizza makers) in Naples. Each aimed to perfect the delicate balance of flavors and textures, leading to a wave of creativity and innovation in the world of pizza-making.

3. The Symbol of Simplicity

In an age of extravagant dishes, the Margherita pizza stands as a symbol of humble simplicity. Its minimal yet high-quality ingredients resonate with pizza enthusiasts and food lovers who appreciate the beauty of less being more.

4. Cultural Ambassador

As Italian immigrants spread across the globe, they carried with them the tradition of making Margherita pizza. This culinary ambassador introduced people from various cultures to the joys of authentic Neapolitan pizza, transcending geographical boundaries.

5. World Pizza Champions

Modern-day pizzaioli continue to master the art of crafting the perfect Margherita pizza. In 2018, a team from Naples won the World Pizza Championship in the “Margherita STG” category, showcasing their exceptional skills in upholding tradition and excellence.

Savoring the Legacy

As you take a bite of a Margherita pizza, you’re not just enjoying a delicious dish; you’re partaking in a centuries-old tale of culinary craftsmanship and cultural significance. From the streets of Naples to international dinner tables, the Margherita pizza remains an enduring symbol of Italian artistry and flavor.

In the world of pizzas, the Margherita stands as a testament to the notion that greatness often lies in simplicity. So, whether you’re a pizza connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, let the Margherita pizza transport you to a time when a queen’s palate gave birth to a legend we savor to this day. 🇮🇹👑🍕

Davide Fiorentino