Name: Homemade Margherita Pizza
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 1-2 ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced; 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 1-2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional); 1/4 cup tomato sauce (optional)

This homemade Margherita pizza is a simple yet flavorful dish made with fresh mozzarella, tangy tomatoes, basil, and a crispy, thin crust. It’s a healthy option, providing a balanced mix of vegetables, lean protein, and fiber, perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella make a big difference.
Preheat your oven to ensure your pizza cooks evenly, and consider using a pizza stone for a crispier crust.
For extra flavor, drizzle some balsamic glaze on top once the pizza comes out of the oven.
Don’t overload the pizza with sauce; a thin layer is all you need to avoid a soggy crust.
Stretch the dough with your hands rather than rolling it to keep the texture light and airy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Margherita pizza offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The fresh basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella create a light, refreshing taste, while the crispy crust gives you the perfect crunch. It’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but remains healthy.

Yield: Serves 2

Homemade Margherita Pizza

A healthy and delicious homemade Margherita pizza with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a crispy crust, perfect for dinner.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1-2 ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1-2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1/4 cup tomato sauce (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
Roll or stretch the dough to your desired thickness on a floured surface.
If using tomato sauce, spread a thin layer over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Otherwise, just drizzle with olive oil.
Arrange the tomato slices evenly over the dough, followed by the mozzarella slices.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and scatter fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle with a little more olive oil if desired.
Slice and enjoy!

Notes

You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using.
This pizza can also be made as a mini pizza by dividing the dough into smaller portions.
For a more authentic Neapolitan flavor, try using San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 464Total Fat 35gSaturated Fat 14gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 19gCholesterol 73mgSodium 928mgCarbohydrates 16gFiber 2gSugar 6gProtein 23g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough to save time or make your own using flour, yeast, and olive oil.
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes work best, but you can also use canned San Marzano tomatoes for a more authentic taste.
Mozzarella: Opt for whole milk mozzarella, as it provides a creamier texture. Fresh mozzarella is ideal but can be substituted with shredded mozzarella if needed.
Basil: Fresh basil adds the perfect aromatic flavor. Avoid dried basil as it lacks the punch of fresh leaves.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall taste. Use it to brush the crust before baking for a golden finish.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-free pizza crust: Use a gluten-free pizza dough if you need to avoid gluten.
Dairy-free: Substitute mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese option such as cashew-based or coconut-based cheese.
Add protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, turkey sausage, or even anchovies.
Spicy: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle some chili oil for a spicy kick.

Storage Options

Leftovers: If you have leftover pizza, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or toaster oven to maintain the crispiness of the crust.
Freezing: To freeze, place the pizza on a baking sheet and freeze it until solid, then wrap it in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from the freezer.