Perfect Marinara Pizza Recipe

Welcome to the world of authentic Italian cooking!

Today, we're diving into a classic that's beloved by pizza aficionados around the globe: Marinara Pizza.

Originating from Naples, this pizza is simplicity at its finest, letting the flavors of quality ingredients shine through.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, this recipe will guide you through creating a Marinara Pizza that's as authentic as it is delicious.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bring a slice of Italy into your kitchen!

Ingredients:

Pizza Dough:

1. 500g (about 4 cups) all-purpose flour
2. 300ml (about 1 ¼ cups) warm water
3. 7g (1 packet) active dry yeast
4. 2 tbsp olive oil
5. 1 tsp sugar
6. 1 tsp salt

Toppings:

1. 400g (about 1 ¾ cups) canned San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
2. 2-3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
3. 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
4. Fresh basil leaves
5. Sea salt, to taste
6. Optional: a pinch of oregano

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 10 minutes, until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Toppings:

1. In a bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to its highest setting, ideally 250°C (482°F) or higher. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.

Assemble the Pizza:

1. Once the dough has risen, divide it into 2-3 balls. On a floured surface, roll out one ball into a thin circle.
2. Spread a thin layer of the tomato mixture over the dough. Scatter the sliced garlic and drizzle with olive oil. Add a few basil leaves and a pinch of sea salt (and oregano, if using).

Bake the Pizza:

1. Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet.
2. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.

Serve:

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and add a few fresh basil leaves for garnish.
2. Slice and serve hot.

Enjoy your authentic Marinara Pizza with its simple yet vibrant flavors, a true testament to the beauty of Italian cooking!

And there you have it – a perfect Marinara Pizza that wouldn't look out of place on the streets of Naples!

This recipe is a testament to the beauty of Italian cuisine, where simplicity meets flavor.

Remember, the key to a great Marinara Pizza lies in using the freshest ingredients and giving your dough enough time to rise.

Serve it up at your next dinner party or enjoy it with a glass of your favorite wine for a truly Italian experience.

Buon appetito!