Introduction
When it comes to Italian cuisine, pizza holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers around the world. Among the vast array of pizza varieties, the Margherita Extra stands out as a delicious twist on the classic Margherita pizza.
This delightful variation incorporates additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and buffalo mozzarella cheese, elevating the flavors and taking the dining experience to new heights. In this article, we will delve into the history, detailed recipe, and provide tips on preparing the perfect Margherita Extra pizza.
A Brief History
The Margherita pizza, named after Queen Margherita of Italy, was created in 1889 to represent the colors of the Italian flag—red tomatoes, white mozzarella cheese, and green basil leaves. Over the years, this classic pizza has evolved, giving birth to the Margherita Extra.
This modern rendition takes inspiration from the original while incorporating additional ingredients, offering a more vibrant and indulgent taste.
Recipe for Margherita Extra Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade if preferred).
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved.
- 8 ounces buffalo mozzarella cheese, sliced.
- Fresh basil leaves.
- Extra-virgin olive oil.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to the highest temperature setting. If you have access to a wood-fired oven, even better, as it will lend a distinctive smoky flavor to your pizza.
- On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a thin round shape. Ensure it's evenly thin to achieve a crispy crust.
- Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the dough with a generous amount of extra-virgin olive oil, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Arrange the cherry tomato halves on the dough, distributing them evenly.
- Place the buffalo mozzarella slices over the tomatoes, allowing them to melt and blend with the other ingredients during baking.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish the pizza with fresh basil leaves, tearing them if desired for better distribution.
- Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help set the toppings and prevent them from sliding off when you cut into it.
- Slice the Margherita Extra pizza into wedges and serve hot.
Enjoying Margherita Extra Pizza to the Fullest
To fully appreciate its exquisite taste, consider pairing it with a light and crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water. As for dessert, a traditional Italian tiramisu or a creamy panna cotta would make a perfect ending to your meal.
▲Conclusion
The Margherita Extra pizza is a delightful variation that combines the timeless flavors of the classic Margherita with the added freshness of cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil leaves, and the creamy goodness of buffalo mozzarella.
Remember, the key to a perfect Margherita Extra lies in achieving a thin and crispy crust and using fresh, high-quality ingredients. So gather your loved ones, let your creativity shine, and indulge in the rich flavors of this delectable pizza creation. Buon appetito!
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