Neapolitan Pizza Recipe: How to make easy Neapolitan Pizza?

Neapolitan Pizza Recipe

Neapolitan pizza is the epitome of Italian cuisine, celebrated for its simple yet high-quality ingredients and a perfectly charred crust. This classic pizza features a pillowy yet crispy base topped with vibrant San Marzano tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, making each bite a symphony of flavors. With its delicate texture and heavenly aroma, Neapolitan pizza not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a slice of Italian tradition. This quick version allows you to enjoy this culinary delight in just 30 minutes without sacrificing authenticity!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour or ’00’ Italian flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, for added flavor)

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup (240ml) San Marzano tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
• 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into rounds
• Fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, oregano, or other toppings of choice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough (10 minutes)
   • In a small bowl, mix the warm water with the active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture.
   • Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using olive oil, add it at this stage.
2. Let the Dough Rise (15-20 minutes)
   • Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for at least 15 minutes or until slightly puffed.
3. Preheat Your Cooking Surface (5 minutes)
   • Preheat your oven to the highest temperature (typically between 475°F and 500°F/245°C to 260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
4. Shape the Pizza (5 minutes)
   • After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough in half (this recipe makes two pizzas).
   • Using your hands, press down and stretch one piece of dough into a 10-12 inch circle, making the edges a bit thicker for the crust. Keep the center thinner to allow for topping.
5. Add the Toppings (5 minutes)
   • Spread 1/2 cup of tomato sauce evenly over the pizza base, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Distribute the mozzarella slices evenly on top of the sauce.
   • Sprinkle a pinch of salt and drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top. Add fresh basil leaves as desired.
6. Bake the Pizza (8-10 minutes)
   • Using a pizza peel or a flat baking sheet, transfer the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or a baking tray.
   • Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid burning!
7. Serve and Enjoy (2 minutes)
   • Carefully remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a minute, and then slice it into wedges. Optionally, garnish with more fresh basil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Neapolitan pizza with a simple side salad of arugula dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. Pair this delightful dish with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or indeed a classic Italian Chianti for an authentic experience. A refreshing soda or flavored sparkling water can also be a great non-alcoholic option.

Nutritional Information

Neapolitan pizza, particularly when made with high-quality ingredients, offers several nutritional benefits:

• Whole Grains: If you opt for whole wheat flour, you increase the fiber content, which is beneficial for digestion.
• Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its heart-health benefits.
• Mozzarella Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health.
• Basil: Adds vitamins and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Olive Oil: Considered a healthy fat, it contains antioxidants and is known for promoting heart health.

Approximate Nutritional Information per Serving (1 slice of 8):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g

Enjoying a homemade Neapolitan pizza not only delivers a comforting meal but also immerses you in the rich culinary heritage of Italy. With these steps, even beginner cooks can master this delicious dish in under 30 minutes. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to delight your family and friends with this authentic pizza experience!