Margherita Pizza from Carrabba's Italian Grill features a thin, crispy crust topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomato slices, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of rich olive oil, delivering a classic and vibrant Italian flavor experience.
Equipments
- Oven (preferably pizza oven)
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Pastry brush
- Ladle or large spoon
- Pizza peel (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough ball (about 12 oz/340g)
- 4 oz (115g) fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal (for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Fresh mozzarella should be sliced just before assembling the pizza to maintain its creamy texture and prevent excess moisture. Using ripe tomatoes is crucial, as they provide a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity that complements the basil and cheese. Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil to drizzle on top, enhancing the flavor with its rich, fruity notes. Cornmeal is essential for dusting the pizza peel or baking sheet, helping to create a crisp, non-sticky crust. Your Margherita Pizza from Carrabba's Italian Grill copycat menu will capture the authentic and vibrant flavors that define this classic Italian dish.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with pizza stone inside for at least 30 minutes.
- Slice mozzarella and tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- On a floured surface, roll out pizza dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Sprinkle cornmeal onto a pizza peel or baking sheet.
- Transfer dough onto prepared peel or baking sheet.
- Arrange mozzarella slices evenly over the dough.
- Place tomato slices over mozzarella.
- Sprinkle kosher salt over the top.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over pizza.
- Bake pizza on hot stone or baking sheet for 10–12 minutes, until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove pizza from oven; brush crust with remaining olive oil.
- Scatter fresh basil leaves over pizza.
- Slice and serve immediately.
Substitution
The Margherita Pizza from Carrabba's Italian Grill copycat menu offers a thin, crispy crust layered with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and olive oil to create an authentic Italian taste. If fresh mozzarella is unavailable, consider using low-moisture mozzarella or a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a similar melt and flavor. Your ripe tomatoes can be substituted with canned San Marzano tomatoes that are drained and sliced if fresh ones are out of season. When a pizza stone is not accessible, a preheated baking sheet can provide sufficient heat retention to ensure a crispy crust. Using cornmeal to dust your peel or baking surface will help prevent sticking, enhancing your cooking process.
Tips
Ensure your oven and pizza stone reach the full 500degF (260degC) to achieve the ideal crispy crust characteristic of Carrabba's Margherita Pizza. Dusting the pizza peel or baking sheet with cornmeal prevents the dough from sticking and makes transferring the pizza easier. Use fresh, ripe tomatoes and mozzarella sliced uniformly at 1/4-inch thickness for even cooking and balanced flavor. After baking, brushing the crust with olive oil enhances the golden color and adds richness to the final dish, making your pizza taste authentically Italian.
Nutritions
Margherita Pizza from Carrabba's Italian Grill offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. The thin crust provides a moderate amount of calories primarily from refined flour, while fresh mozzarella contributes quality protein and calcium. Tomatoes add essential vitamins such as vitamin C and antioxidants, and the olive oil drizzle supplies heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Your meal is enriched with fresh basil, which can contribute small amounts of vitamins A and K, enhancing both nutrition and flavor.
Storage
Store leftover Margherita Pizza in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate the pizza at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety. Reheat your pizza in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 8-10 minutes on a baking sheet or pizza stone to restore its crispy crust and melty cheese.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute fresh mozzarella with buffalo mozzarella for a creamier texture and richer flavor. Instead of ripe tomatoes, consider using sundried tomatoes to add an intense, slightly tangy taste. For a crispier crust, try par-baking the dough for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings. Using a cast iron skillet instead of a pizza stone can also help retain heat and create a well-browned crust.
Allergies
Your Margherita Pizza from Carrabba's contains potential allergens such as wheat in the pizza dough and dairy in the fresh mozzarella cheese. If you have a gluten intolerance or dairy allergy, you should exercise caution or consult with the restaurant about possible substitutions. Additionally, those with sensitivities to nightshades should be aware of the ripe tomato slices included in the topping.
Why this recipe?
Carrabba's Italian Grill's Margherita Pizza stands out for its authentic use of fresh basil, high-quality mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes, delivering a classic Italian flavor profile that appeals to many. The thin, crispy crust baked to perfection enhances the overall texture, making each bite satisfying and delightful. You'll find that recreating this pizza at home allows for customization of ingredients and freshness, offering a cost-effective and personalized dining experience while capturing the essence of Carrabba's quality. This recipe not only satisfies cravings for genuine Italian cuisine but also provides a rewarding cooking challenge for pizza enthusiasts.