Delicious and Easy Margherita Pizza Recipe
Welcome to my kitchen, where we create delicious and nutritious meals that nourish the body and soul. Today’s recipe is a Margherita Pizza that is entirely gluten-free and dairy-free – perfect for those with dietary restrictions!
When you think of pizza, you might envision a thick, greasy crust with cheese melting down the sides. However, this homemade Margherita Pizza is quite the opposite. It boasts a thin and crispy crust topped with fresh ingredients that blend beautifully together.
As someone who follows a gluten-free diet, I know how difficult it can be to find pizza that meets my dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture. That’s why I developed this recipe – to create a delicious gluten-free Margherita Pizza that everyone can enjoy.
Not only is this Margherita Pizza gluten-free, but it is also dairy-free. Instead of using traditional mozzarella cheese made from cow’s milk, we use plant-based alternatives such as Daiya cheese or homemade cashew ricotta.
By using fresh tomatoes, garlic cloves, and basil leaves, this pizza packs in the flavor without any unnecessary additives or preservatives. Plus, with a homemade sauce and crust recipe made from rice flour and almond flour instead of wheat flour, this pizza is low FODMAP and vegan-friendly.
So let’s get started! With just a few simple ingredients and some easy-to-follow instructions, we’ll have a scrumptious Margherita Pizza in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Preparing healthy and delicious food that everyone can enjoy is my passion. That is why I am excited to share with you my Margherita Pizza recipe – gluten-free, dairy-free and made with fresh ingredients! You will be delighted with the taste, texture, and aroma of this pizza.
Firstly, who doesn’t love a good Margherita Pizza? It’s a classic recipe known for its simplicity, but it should not be underestimated. The combination of tomatoes, fresh basil leaves and mozzarella cheese is always a winner.
Secondly, this recipe is gluten-free. It’s made with a blend of rice flour and almond flour, allowing people who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease to enjoy this delicious pizza without worrying about the consequences of consuming gluten. No one should be deprived of the pleasure of enjoying their favourite food.
Thirdly, this Margherita Pizza recipe uses fresh ingredients that make all the difference in taste. You’ll be using real tomato sauce instead of store-bought pizza sauce filled with chemicals and additives. The aromatic garlic and extra virgin olive oil make this pizza flavourful and decadent.
Finally, this Margherita Pizza is dairy-free. Instead of using regular mozzarella cheese on this pizza, I use Daiya cheese – a non-dairy alternative cheese that melts beautifully and tastes like traditional mozzarella cheese. This means that everyone can indulge in cheesy goodness without any discomfort or allergies.
This Margherita Pizza recipe is not only healthy and delicious but also easy to make with a few simple steps such as preparing the pizza crust, layering with homemade sauce and toppings before baking it to perfection. You’ll have a delicious dinner in no time.
Trust me when I say that once you give my Margherita Pizza recipe a try – you’ll be hooked!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make this delicious gluten-free margherita pizza:
For the crust:
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup potato starch
- 1 tsp dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup lukewarm water
For the sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or pizza sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
For the toppings:
- Fresh mozzarella cheese or dairy-free cheese like Daiya or California Pizza Kitchen vegan cheese (if dairy-free)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
Note: If you prefer a pre-made gluten-free crust, you can use Udi’s gluten-free pizza crusts or cauliflower pizza crust from Oggi Foods. Make sure it fits your dietary needs and preferences.
The Recipe How-To
Now let’s get down to business – I am excited to share with you my gluten-free Margherita pizza recipe! This recipe proves that gluten-free does not have to mean flavor-free. You can indulge in your favorite pizza without the aftermath of discomfort. Let’s get started with the instructions for the pizza crust.
Pizza crust
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup potato starch
- 1/4 cup tapioca starch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients and stir to incorporate. Make a well in the center of the mix and add warm water, sugar, and yeast to activate them. After about two minutes, add the olive oil and stir until a dough ball forms. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise for at least half an hour before rolling out. This should be sufficient for two pizzas.
Margherita homemade sauce
- 4 tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 2 garlic cloves
- Fresh basil leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Blend all these ingredients in a mixer until they become smooth before spreading it on top of your crust.
Toppings
- Fresh mozzarella
- Fresh basil leaf
Once you have topped off your pizza with all of these delicious ingredients, place the pizza in the oven preheated to 425°F. Bake for about 12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
And voila, your gluten-free Margherita pizza is ready! Time to savor every bite of this delicious homemade gluten-free pizza.
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to switch up your Margherita Pizza recipe? Great news – this recipe is highly adaptable and can be customized to suit your dietary preferences and taste preferences!
Gluten-free pizza crust: Not in the mood to make your own crust recipe? No problem! There are many pre-made gluten-free pizza crusts available at the grocery store, such as Udi’s Gluten-Free Pizza Crusts.
Vegan cheese: Want to make this recipe entirely dairy-free? Swap out the mozzarella cheese for a vegan alternative like Daiya.
Low FODMAP: If you are following a low FODMAP diet, be cautious of using too much garlic in your sauce. Instead, try adding some chives or green onions for flavor.
Cauliflower crust: For a lower-carb option, try using cauliflower crust instead of traditional pizza crust. You can also purchase pre-made cauliflower crusts at the grocery store, or make your own using a cauliflower bread mix.
Other toppings: While we love the classic Margherita Pizza toppings of tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese – feel free to get creative with your toppings! Try adding some cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein, or fresh veggies like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrients.
Overall, don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and ingredients in your Margherita Pizza recipe. Whether you’re following a specific dietary plan or just want to switch things up – this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various substitutions and variations.
Serving and Pairing
I am beyond excited to share with you all the serving and pairing suggestions for this amazing gluten-free Margherita Pizza Recipe! This succulent pizza is perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a casual Saturday night with friends or a lively family dinner. It is sure to leave an unforgettable impression on your guests!
For starters, let’s talk about how you can serve this gluten-free pizza. I recommend serving the pizza hot and right out of your oven on a warm plate as it plays a crucial part in retaining its moisture and keeping the crust crispy. Take it up a notch by adding some fresh basil leaves to the top of the pizza before serving; this will give it an aroma that will have everyone drooling!
Now onto what pairs well with this Margherita pizza recipe. I highly recommend pairing this cheesy delight with a crisp and refreshing side salad, such as an Arugula or Spinach Salad. The fresh greens in your salad will perfectly complement the savory flavors of the pizza without overwhelming your taste buds. For a heartier meal, why not opt-in for grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers as it is yet another idea to add nutrients to your meal while making it more colorful and attractive?
And let’s not forget about drinks! A classic Italian soda with strawberry, orange or lemon would make a great beverage option for everyone in the family. But if you’re looking for something stronger than I suggest enjoying a glass of Pinot Noir or Chianti as they are known to go exceptionally well with Pizza.
In summary, get ready to enjoy some deliciously gluten-free Margherita Pizza paired with some crispy greens, grilled veggies, or your favorite wine!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this Margherita pizza recipe is that it can easily be made ahead of time, stored, and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.
To make ahead, prepare the pizza crust and sauce as instructed in the recipe. Then, wrap the unused dough in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 1 month. Make sure to thaw it completely before using.
If you want to prepare the entire pizza ahead of time, assemble the toppings on the crust and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it into a preheated oven at 425°F for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
To store any leftovers, let your homemade Margherita pizza cool completely at room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
When reheating leftover pizza, avoid using a microwave as this will make the crust soggy. Instead, preheat your oven to 375°F and place the cold pizza on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
With these make-ahead tips, storing instructions, and reheating methods, you can enjoy your gluten-free margherita pizza anytime you crave it without sacrificing its flavor or texture!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making a margherita pizza, the key to success is in the details. Here are some tips to make sure you achieve the perfect gluten-free crust and delicious toppings every time:
1. Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, organic produce makes all the difference in the overall taste of your pizza. Ensure that you are using fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves for maximum flavor.
2. Preheat your oven: A hot oven is essential for baking a crispy pizza crust. Preheat your oven to at least 450°F and place a preheated baking stone or cast-iron skillet in the oven to get hot.
3. Keep your ingredients dry: Wet ingredients like sliced tomatoes or mozzarella cheese can make the crust soggy. To avoid this, pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to your pizza.
4. Make sure your dough is properly rested: Letting your dough rest allows it to relax and rise, making it easier to shape and more flavorful. After preparing your gluten-free dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest on a countertop for at least one hour before shaping.
5. Use parchment paper: Placing your pizza on parchment paper before placing it in the oven will prevent it from sticking to the pan while baking.
6. Experiment with toppings: Margherita pizza is delicious as it is, but don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings such as olives, mushrooms, or even vegan cheese alternatives like Daiya.
7. Avoid overloading your toppings: While tempting, overloading your pizza with too many toppings can result in a soggy crust and uneven cooking. Stick to no more than 2-3 toppings for the best results.
By following these tips, you’ll be sure to create delicious gluten-free margherita pizzas time after time!
FAQ
Now that you have learned how to make a mouth-watering Margherita Pizza (Gluten-Free) from scratch, you might have some questions in mind. In this section, I will answer some frequently asked questions to help clear any confusion and guide you to achieve the best results possible. So, keep reading!
Does Margherita pizza have gluten?
Let’s talk about a classic and mouth-watering dish, a margherita pizza. It’s a wonderful combination of a simple marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, grated parmesan cheese, and fragrant basil. What’s more special about this dish is that it’s gluten-free. Sometimes, the simplest things can make the best meals.
What gluten-free flour is good for pizza?
Are you looking for a gluten-free pizza crust recipe that is both delicious and easy to make? Look no further! One of my go-to tricks for achieving the perfect texture and color is to use almond flour. Not only does it add a nutty flavor, but it also has additional protein and fat which helps the crust brown perfectly. This recipe is versatile and any type of gluten-free all purpose flour can be used.
What is the crust in a gluten free pizza?
When it comes to making gluten-free pizza, a blend of gluten-free flours and starches such as rice flour, almond flour, potato starch, and tapioca starch are commonly used. These dry ingredients are mixed with wet ingredients such as oil, sugar, and salt. Depending on the recipe, additional ingredients such as yeast may be added for leavening purposes.
What are the three ingredients of a margherita pizza meant to represent?
The Margherita pizza is recognized for its use of three colours from the Italian flag in its toppings – red tomato sauce, milky-white mozzarella, and lush green basil leaves.
Bottom Line
the article:
There you have it, my recipe for a scrumptious and healthy gluten-free Margherita Pizza. By incorporating fresh and organic ingredients, such as tomatoes, basil leaf, and garlic cloves, along with gluten-free flour alternatives like rice flour and almond flour, you can enjoy a pizza that is both delicious and nutritious.
Whether you are avoiding gluten due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, or just looking for a healthier pizza option, this recipe has got you covered. A slice of Margherita Pizza is an excellent source of vitamins A and C as well as fiber.
Don’t worry about leftovers because this pizza can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Serving it with a side of salad or roasted vegetables can make for a complete meal.
Next time the pizza craving hits you, remember that gluten-free doesn’t have to mean taste-free. With this recipe, you can indulge in your favorite pizza without any guilt.
So turn up the heat, get into the kitchen and start making yourself some homemade Margherita pizzas. With my handy tips and advice on substitutions and variations, I’m sure you’ll have a yummy meal ready in no time!
Margherita Pizza (Gluten Free) Recipe
Ingredients
- pizza crust ($notetemplate1$ or your own pizza crust recipe)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 4 garlic cloves, thinnly sliced
- 1 lb fresh block mozzarella cheese (maybe a little less)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 -5 vine ripe tomatoes, sliced thin
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaf, chopped
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Cook pizza crust 10 minutes (or as directed in recipe - until it is mostly cooked).
- Drizzle cooked crust with a little more than 1 tbsp of the olive oil and use a brush to spread until the entire crust is moistened, adding more olive oil as needed.
- Spread sliced garlic evenly on top.
- Top with a single layer of 1/4" thick slices of mozzarella (or a thickness to your liking) and then fill in any gaps in between the slices by sprinkling with the shredded mozzarella.
- Place thinnly sliced tomatoes on top of cheese in a single layer, spaced close together (they will shrink and spread apart when baked).
- Sprinkle with roughly chopped basil.
- Drizzle with the remaining olive oil (about 1/2 tbsp) and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.
- Bake 15 minutes or until tomatoes are crinkly and mozzarella is soft and slightly browned in some areas.