Margherita: meaning, definitions and examples
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Margherita
[ mɑrɡəˈritə ]
pizza type
Margherita is a type of pizza that originated in Italy. It is traditionally topped with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, salt, and extra-virgin olive oil. The colors of the ingredients are said to represent the Italian flag.
Synonyms
Neapolitan pizza, cheese pizza
Examples of usage
- I ordered a Margherita pizza for dinner.
- The Margherita at that restaurant is fantastic.
- For a simple meal, I love making a Margherita at home.
Word origin
The name 'Margherita' is believed to be derived from Queen Margherita of Savoy, who visited Naples in 1889. During her visit, a pizzaiolo named Raffaele Esposito prepared a special dish in her honor, using tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to create a pizza that reflected the colors of the Italian flag. He named the pizza after the queen, and it quickly became popular. The Margherita pizza has since become a symbol of Italian cuisine and is celebrated worldwide. Its simplicity and fresh ingredients reflect the traditional culinary practices of Naples, contributing to its enduring appeal.