Pizza Alla Napoletana

A true Italian classic, Pizza Alla Napoletana is known for its thin, soft crust, rich tomato sauce, and simple yet flavorful toppings. Traditionally baked in a wood-fired oven, this recipe brings the authentic Neapolitan experience to your kitchen!

Servings: 8 slices (1 large pizza)

Total Time: 2 hours (including dough rising)

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Step 1: Neapolitan Pizza Dough

(Makes 1 large pizza, 12–14 inches)

Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 2 cups flour (or all-purpose flour)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

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Step 2: Pizza Toppings & Assembly

Ingredients:

• ½ cup San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella (Fior di Latte or Buffalo mozzarella)
• 6–8 fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 500°F (260°C). If using a pizza stone, place it inside while preheating.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, olive oil, salt, oregano, and black pepper.
3. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and stretch it into a 12–14 inch circle, keeping the edges slightly thicker.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border.
   • Tear mozzarella into chunks and distribute evenly.
   • Add fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with Parmesan (optional).
   • Drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor.
5. Bake:
   • Transfer to the preheated stone or baking sheet.
   • Bake for 7–10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Let cool for a few minutes, slice, and enjoy!

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Nutritional Values (Per Slice, 8 Servings)

• Calories: 230 kcal
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 8g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g