National Margherita Day

A joyful person enjoying a slice of margherita pizza, surrounded by colorful Italian decorations and a rustic trattoria setting.. — National margherita day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready to celebrate National Margherita Day? Grab your favorite pizza and get ready for a saucy adventure into the world of this delicious concoction!

When is Margherita Day?

It's national margherita day on the 22nd February.

The Origins of Margherita Pizza

Let's dive into the cheesy history of Margherita Pizza, shall we? This tasty creation is believed to have originated in Naples, Italy back in 1889. Legend has it that the famous pizzaiolo (pizza chef) Raffaele Esposito created this masterpiece in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy.

Queen Margherita and her husband, King Umberto I, visited Naples and expressed a craving for pizza. Esposito took this opportunity to create a special pizza that represented the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella cheese, and green basil leaves.

This simple yet delicious combination of ingredients captured the queen's heart and taste buds, and thus, Margherita Pizza was born!

Internet Celebration: National Margherita Day

In the online world, National Margherita Day has gained quite the following. Pizza lovers from all corners of the internet come together on February 22nd each year to celebrate this cheesy masterpiece. Social media platforms explode with mouthwatering pictures of Margherita pizzas, DIY recipes, and passionate discussions about the best local pizzerias.

If you want to join the festivities, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalMargheritaDay to share your love for this classic pizza. And don't forget to indulge in a slice or two (or a whole pie) of Margherita goodness!

History behind the term 'Margherita'

Neapolitan Kingdom in 1889

Birth of Margherita of Italy

In 1889, Queen Margherita of Italy visited Naples. Legend has it that a local pizzaiolo (pizza maker) created a special pizza in honor of the queen's visit. He used ingredients that represented the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella cheese, and green basil. This pizza was named 'Pizza Margherita' after Queen Margherita, and it quickly gained popularity in Naples.

Late 19th century

Spread of Margherita pizza in Italy

After its creation, Pizza Margherita became more than just a tribute to Queen Margherita. It started to spread throughout Italy, particularly in Naples where it originated. The simple yet delicious combination of flavors made it a favorite among locals. Soon, pizzerias across Italy began offering Margherita pizza as a staple on their menus.

Early 20th century

Introduction of Margherita pizza to the United States

With the mass migration of Italians to the United States in the early 20th century, pizza, including the Margherita variety, found its way across the Atlantic. Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to America, and pizzerias started popping up in cities like New York and Chicago. Margherita pizza became one of the first popular pizza styles in the United States.

1943

Pizza Margherita receives official recognition

In 1943, the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (True Neapolitan Pizza Association) was formed in Naples. This association aimed to preserve the traditional way of making Neapolitan pizza, including the Margherita variety. They established strict guidelines for the ingredients and preparation methods, ensuring the authenticity of Pizza Margherita. Today, pizzerias can receive the official Verace Pizza Napoletana certification for following these traditional standards.

Present Day

Worldwide popularity of Margherita pizza

Margherita pizza has gained immense popularity beyond Italy and the United States. It has become a staple menu item in pizzerias worldwide, loved for its simplicity and classic flavors. People from various cultures and backgrounds enjoy the Margherita pizza, testament to its universal appeal. It has even become a symbol of Neapolitan culinary heritage and is recognized as one of the most iconic pizza styles worldwide.