The Classic Margherita from PizzaExpress features a thin, crispy crust topped with fresh basil, sliced ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella cheese, delivering a vibrant and authentic Italian flavor with every bite.
Equipments
- Pizza oven
- Pizza peel
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Dough scraper
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Ladle (for sauce)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- Pizza dough
- Tomato sauce
- Fresh mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Ripe tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Using fresh mozzarella cheese rather than processed cheese ensures a creamy texture and authentic taste reminiscent of traditional Italian pizza. Ripe tomatoes should be chosen for their natural sweetness and juiciness, enhancing the brightness of the tomato sauce used in this recipe. Fresh basil leaves bring a fragrant aroma and a slightly peppery flavor, which complements the other ingredients perfectly. You can adjust the amount of olive oil and seasoning like salt and black pepper to balance the flavors according to your preference. This ingredient selection is key to replicating the Classic Margherita from PizzaExpress copycat menu successfully at home.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat pizza oven to highest temperature.
- Lightly flour the surface and roll out pizza dough into a thin circle using a rolling pin.
- Transfer the rolled dough onto a floured pizza peel.
- Evenly spread tomato sauce over the dough using a ladle.
- Slice mozzarella cheese and ripe tomatoes; evenly distribute them over the sauce.
- Drizzle olive oil over toppings.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Slide pizza onto the oven stone using the peel.
- Bake until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling (8–12 minutes).
- Remove pizza with the peel onto a cooling rack for 1–2 minutes.
- Add fresh basil leaves on top.
- Slice with chef’s knife and serve.
Substitution
Replicating the Classic Margherita from PizzaExpress at home requires fresh ingredients and proper technique to achieve its signature thin, crispy crust topped with basil, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. If you don't have a pizza oven, use a preheated pizza stone in a conventional oven to help mimic the high heat for a crispy base. Fresh mozzarella can be substituted with bocconcini or fior di latte, which melt well and maintain the authentic creamy texture. When rolling out your dough, avoid over-flouring the surface to prevent stiffness, and use a pizza peel dusted with semolina for easy transfer. Ensure your basil is added after baking to retain its vibrant flavor and avoid wilting in high heat.
Tips
Ensure your pizza oven is fully preheated to the highest temperature to achieve a crispy crust. Use a well-floured pizza peel to prevent the dough from sticking when transferring it into the oven. Slice fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes evenly for balanced melting and flavor distribution. Let the pizza rest on a cooling rack after baking to maintain crust crispness before adding fresh basil and slicing.
Nutritions
The Classic Margherita pizza offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates from the thin, crispy dough and protein from fresh mozzarella cheese. Tomatoes and fresh basil add antioxidants such as lycopene and vitamins A and C, contributing to your overall nutrient intake. Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the simple seasoning of salt and black pepper enhances flavor without excessive sodium. This pizza can be part of a nutritious meal when enjoyed in moderation.
Storage
Store any leftover Margherita pizza in an airtight container or tightly wrap slices in aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Refrigerate within two hours of baking to prevent bacterial growth and consume within 2-3 days for best flavor. To reheat, place the pizza on a preheated oven rack or pizza stone at 375degF for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness and melty cheese texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute fresh mozzarella with burrata for a creamier texture that melts beautifully on the hot crust. Try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or garlic-infused olive oil before baking to enhance the depth of flavor. For a gluten-free option, use cauliflower crust or a pre-made gluten-free dough, adjusting baking time accordingly. Experiment with seasoning by incorporating dried oregano or a pinch of smoked paprika into the tomato sauce to give your Classic Margherita a unique twist.
Allergies
The Classic Margherita contains mozzarella cheese, making it unsuitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The pizza dough may contain gluten, which poses risks for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Be aware that cross-contamination in the kitchen could expose you to other allergens not listed in the ingredients.
Why this recipe?
Classic Margherita from PizzaExpress is loved for its fresh mozzarella, tangy San Marzano tomatoes, and fragrant basil, creating an authentic Italian flavor profile. The thin, crispy handmade dough offers a perfect balance of crunch and chew, enhancing every bite. You'll enjoy replicating this recipe at home to capture the genuine taste and quality while customizing toppings to your preference. Making a copycat version allows you to savor a restaurant favorite anytime with personalized freshness and cost savings.