Castilian-Manchego Style Margherita Pizza

Ingredients

In this Castilian-Manchego adaptation of the Margherita pizza, we replace the traditional mozzarella cheese with Manchego cheese, a Spanish cheese made from sheep's milk. The tomato sauce is enhanced with Spanish spices and herbs, such as smoked paprika and oregano, to infuse the pizza with a distinct Castilian-Manchego flavor profile. The crust remains thin and crispy, just like the original, but the addition of Spanish ingredients adds a delightful twist to this beloved Italian dish. We alse have the original recipe for Pizza Margherita, so you can check it out.

• 1 pizza dough ball (250g / 8.8oz) 1 pizza dough ball (250g / 8.8oz)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup (100g) grated Manchego cheese 1 cup (100g) grated Manchego cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Olive oil, for drizzling Olive oil, for drizzling
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 4g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. 2.
   Roll out the pizza dough into a thin round shape.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, mix the tomato sauce, smoked paprika, and dried oregano.
4. 4.
   Spread the tomato sauce mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. 5.
   Sprinkle the grated Manchego cheese over the sauce.
6. 6.
   Season with a pinch of salt.
7. 7.
   Transfer the pizza to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
10. 10.
    Drizzle with olive oil.
11. 11.
    Slice and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Manchego cheese — Make sure to grate the Manchego cheese before using it on the pizza. This will ensure even distribution and melting during baking.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra Spanish touch, you can add thinly sliced chorizo or serrano ham as a topping.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the pizza before baking.
• Experiment with different Spanish cheeses, such as Mahón or Idiazabal, for a unique flavor twist.
• To achieve a crispier crust, preheat a pizza stone in the oven before placing the pizza on it.
• If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or passata as a substitute.

Serving advice

Serve the Castilian-Manchego Style Margherita Pizza hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with olive oil for an extra burst of flavor. Cut into slices and enjoy as a main course or share it as a delightful appetizer during gatherings.

Presentation advice

Present the Castilian-Manchego Style Margherita Pizza on a wooden cutting board or a pizza stone to showcase its rustic charm. The golden crust and vibrant toppings will entice your guests. Pair it with a side of fresh salad or olives to complete the Spanish culinary experience.