Classic Margherita Pizza

Ingredients

In this vegetarian adaptation of the Margherita pizza, we replace the traditional pepperoni or sausage toppings with an abundance of fresh vegetables. The result is a lighter and healthier version that still captures the essence of the original Italian dish. By using vegetarian-friendly cheese and omitting any animal-based ingredients, this pizza is suitable for those following a vegetarian diet. We alse have the original recipe for Pizza Margherita, so you can check it out.

• 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) tomato sauce 1/2 cup (120 ml) tomato sauce
• 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 large tomato, sliced 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (30 g) sliced black olives 1/4 cup (30 g) sliced black olives
• Handful of fresh basil leaves Handful of fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. 2.
   Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
4. 4.
   Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. 5.
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
6. 6.
   Arrange the tomato slices, red onion slices, and black olives on top of the cheese.
7. 7.
   Drizzle the olive oil over the pizza and season with salt and pepper.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomato — Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese — Opt for fresh mozzarella cheese for a creamy texture.
• Basil leaves — Tear the basil leaves just before adding them to the pizza to preserve their aroma and freshness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a crispier crust, preheat your baking sheet or pizza stone before placing the dough on it.
• Experiment with different vegetable toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts to add variety to your Margherita pizza.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the pizza before baking.
• To enhance the flavor, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the pizza after it comes out of the oven.
• Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on a stovetop skillet for best results.

Serving advice

Serve the Margherita pizza hot, straight from the oven. Cut it into slices and enjoy it as a main course or as a delightful appetizer for gatherings. Pair it with a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

For an appealing presentation, garnish the pizza with a few extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and basil will make the pizza visually enticing.