Few dishes are as universally loved as Pizza Margherita. Originating in Naples, this pizza was created in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy in the late 19th century. The ingredients—tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil—were chosen to represent the colors of the Italian flag: red, white, and green. A classic Margherita pizza is made with a thin, crispy crust topped with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and a handful of basil leaves, resulting in a deliciously simple and satisfying meal. Neapolitan pizza makers often use San Marzano tomatoes, which are grown in volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius and have a unique flavor profile ideal for pizza sauce.
Why It’s Iconic: Pizza Margherita represents Italian pride and culinary heritage. It’s a dish that has remained virtually unchanged for over a century and is loved for its perfect combination of fresh, simple ingredients that highlight the natural sweetness of tomatoes.
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