The Art of Making Authentic Italian Pizza

 

Introduction

Pizza is one of the most beloved foods across the globe, but few things compare to the taste of authentic Italian pizza—specifically, Neapolitan pizza from Naples. This classic dish, with its thin, chewy crust, flavorful tomato sauce, and bubbling mozzarella cheese, dates back to the 18th century. Italian pizza emphasizes simplicity, using high-quality ingredients without excessive toppings.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through creating a perfect homemade Italian pizza that stays true to tradition. We’ll share secrets from Italian pizzerias, ensuring you get a perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, flavorful dough every time!

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 500 grams (4 cups) all-purpose flour or “00” flour
• 325 ml (1⅓ cup) lukewarm water
• 7 grams (2 tsp) salt
• 1 gram (¼ tsp) dry yeast
• 10 grams (2 tsp) sugar
• 30 ml (2 tbsp) olive oil

For the Toppings

• 400 grams (14 oz) canned San Marzano tomatoes (or any peeled tomatoes)
• 300 grams (10 oz) fresh mozzarella cheese
• A handful of fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
• Slowly add the lukewarm water while stirring with a wooden spoon.
• Add sugar and olive oil, and mix until the dough comes together.
• Knead for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 6-8 hours.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

• Blend the canned San Marzano tomatoes to a smooth consistency.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Add basil leaves for more flavor. No need to cook the sauce!

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 250°C (480°F) or as high as it can go.
• Heat a pizza stone or baking sheet for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

• Divide the dough into two equal parts.
• Stretch the dough into a 10-inch circle by hand.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

• Place the dough on parchment paper.
• Spread tomato sauce over the dough.
• Add mozzarella, basil leaves, and olive oil.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza

• Bake for 7-10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the pizza cool for a minute before serving.
• Slice and enjoy your homemade Italian pizza!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Pizza

• Use “00” flour for a lighter, chewier dough.
• Don't overload the pizza with toppings.
• Let the dough rise slowly for better texture.
• Invest in a pizza stone for crispy crusts.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	270
Protein	11 g
Carbohydrates	36 g
Fat	9 g
Fiber	2 g

Conclusion

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making authentic Italian pizza, you can bring the flavors of Naples to your own kitchen. Serve it with a light salad and a glass of wine for a perfect Italian meal.