With the basil and tomato seasons in full swing, I have to write about a favorite pizza of mine: Pizza Margherita.
There’s a great story behind this Italian classic. In 1889, a chef in Naples, Raffaele Esposito, created the pizza to honor Queen Margherita of Italy. The queen had summoned him to the royal palace to bake a selection of pizzas. The Pizza Margherita became the popular queen’s favorite.
Here’s the kicker: The pizza – now a worldwide phenomenon – reflects the colors of the Italian flag. It’s topped with tomatoes (red), mozzarella (white), and basil (green). I also understand Pizza Margherita was the first pizza topped with cheese.
In the recipe on our web site, you also top the pizza with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
This pizza is delicious and straightforward – as well as a piece of culinary history!
Bon appétit,
Claude S. Weiller
Vice President of Sales & Marketing
California Olive Ranch
I love historical facts behind the recipes. I look forward to trying your pizza recipe and many others. This is a GREAT website!!!