Pizza Marinara

Classic Pizza Marinara Recipe

Pizza Marinara is a simple and delicious Italian pizza that celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean. Originating from Naples, this pizza showcases the essence of traditional Italian cuisine with its minimalistic yet flavorful toppings. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating an authentic Pizza Marinara in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Pizza Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

For Topping:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a hint of spice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pizza Dough:

• In a bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
• Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

• In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
• Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat.

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to the highest setting, usually around 475°F (245°C).

1. Roll out the Dough:

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

1. Assemble the Pizza:

• Place the rolled-out dough on a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
• Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the sauce. Optionally, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

1. Bake the Pizza:

• Bake the Pizza Marinara in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the edges are slightly crispy.

1. Finish and Serve:

• Drizzle the finished pizza with extra virgin olive oil. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy the authentic flavors of Pizza Marinara!

This classic Pizza Marinara is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in Italian cuisine, allowing the quality of each ingredient to shine. Enjoy this delicious pizza with a glass of your favorite wine for an authentic taste of Naples. Buon Appetito!