The Queen of Pizzas: Rediscovering the magic of the Margherita

The Pizza Margherita, with its trio of fresh tomato, mozzarella, and basil, might seem deceptively simple. Yet, this iconic dish is a testament to the power of high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship. At its heart lies a story as rich as its flavor—a creation designed to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy and represent the colors of the Italian flag. Today, this classic remains a favorite around the globe, and at Al Vesuvio, it’s celebrated as an embodiment of Italian culinary artistry.

A Symphony of simplicity

The secret to an unforgettable Margherita pizza is the balance between its minimalist ingredients and its complex preparation. At Al Vesuvio, every Margherita begins with a hand-stretched base of perfectly proofed dough, rolled out thin for that quintessential Neapolitan texture—crispy on the outside, yet soft and airy on the inside. This dough, a blend of high-quality flour, water, yeast, and a touch of salt, serves as the perfect canvas.

Next comes the sauce: made from sun-ripened San Marzano tomatoes, gently crushed and seasoned with just a pinch of salt and olive oil to enhance their natural sweetness. This sauce is applied sparingly, ensuring the pizza doesn’t become heavy while still imparting a bold, tangy flavor.

The mozzarella is the crown jewel. At Al Vesuvio, only fresh fior di latte or buffalo mozzarella is used, each slice melting to perfection in the high-temperature ovens. And of course, the basil—its aromatic, peppery notes are the final flourish, added just as the pizza emerges, bubbling and golden, from the oven.

A Universal love affair

Despite its traditional roots, the Margherita pizza has become a global phenomenon, beloved for its versatility and timelessness. But don’t let its ubiquity fool you—executing it flawlessly is a mark of true culinary skill. At Al Vesuvio, the pizza chefs understand that every detail matters: the heat of the oven, the texture of the crust, and even the slight char on the edges all contribute to a pizza that’s far more than the sum of its parts.

This simplicity also makes the Margherita incredibly adaptable. While purists enjoy it in its original form, others experiment by pairing it with a glass of chilled Prosecco or a light Pinot Grigio, letting the subtle flavors dance on the palate.

The Margherita pizza is more than just a dish—it’s an experience, a connection to Italian culture, and a celebration of simplicity. At Al Vesuvio, every slice tells a story of tradition and passion, inviting diners to savor the flavors that have endured for over a century.

Whether you’re dining in the heart of Temple Bar or enjoying a cozy night at home with takeaway, a Margherita pizza from Al Vesuvio transforms any moment into an occasion. Its charm lies in its ability to evoke memories, stir emotions, and satisfy cravings all at once.

So why not indulge in a slice of history, crafted with love and served fresh from the oven? Let Al Vesuvio remind you why the Pizza Margherita remains the queen of pizzas—and a dish worthy of royalty. Buon appetito!