September 5th marks National Cheese Pizza Day, a celebration that honors the simplicity and deliciousness of a classic cheese-only pizza. Whether you're crafting it at home or ordering in, this pizza holiday encourages you to embrace the beauty of a pie adorned with just cheese—no additional toppings necessary!

Origins and History

The history of National Cheese Pizza Day is intertwined with the rich history of pizza itself:

• Ancient Beginnings: The origins of pizza date back to ancient times, with flatbreads topped with various ingredients being consumed by the Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans. The modern pizza, as we know it, originated in Naples, Italy, in the 18th century.
• Arrival in America: Italian immigrants brought pizza to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The dish quickly gained popularity, especially in cities with large Italian populations like New York and Chicago.
• Evolution of Cheese Pizza: While pizzas can be topped with a variety of ingredients, cheese pizza remains a timeless favorite. Its simplicity and universally appealing flavors make it a go-to option for many pizza lovers.

The Significance of Cheese Pizza

Cheese pizza holds special significance for several reasons:

• Universal Appeal: Cheese pizza is a universally loved dish that appeals to people of all ages and tastes. Its simplicity makes it a perfect choice for picky eaters and those who appreciate classic flavors.
• Versatility: Cheese pizza can serve as a base for various toppings, allowing for endless customization. It can also be enjoyed in its pure form, highlighting the delicious combination of cheese and tomato sauce.
• Culinary Tradition: Cheese pizza is a cornerstone of American pizza culture. It’s often the first type of pizza that people try and remains a beloved favorite throughout their lives.

Ways to Celebrate National Cheese Pizza Day

There are many fun and delicious ways to celebrate National Cheese Pizza Day:

1. Order a Cheese Pizza: Support your local pizzeria by ordering a classic cheese pizza. Enjoy it with friends and family, or savor it all to yourself.
2. Make Your Own Cheese Pizza: Get creative in the kitchen and make your own cheese pizza from scratch. Experiment with different types of cheese and sauces to create your perfect pizza.
3. Host a Pizza Party: Invite friends and family over for a pizza party. Serve a variety of pizzas, but make sure to include plenty of cheese pizzas to honor the day.
4. Share on Social Media: Share photos of your cheese pizza creations or your favorite pizza spots on social media using the hashtag #NationalCheesePizzaDay. Connect with other pizza lovers and share recommendations.
5. Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese on your pizza, such as mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, or parmesan. Discover new flavor combinations and textures.
6. Learn About Pizza History: Take the time to learn more about the history of pizza and how it became a beloved dish around the world. Share interesting facts with friends and family.
7. Support a Local Pizzeria: If you have a favorite local pizzeria, show your support by ordering from them and leaving a positive review. Small businesses often rely on community support.

Fun Facts About Cheese Pizza

• Popularity: According to various surveys, cheese pizza consistently ranks as one of the most popular pizza varieties in the United States.
• Mozzarella: Mozzarella is the most commonly used cheese on pizza due to its excellent melting properties and mild flavor.
• Pizza Consumption: Americans consume approximately 3 billion pizzas each year, with cheese pizza being a significant portion of that consumption.

Classic Cheese Pizza Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe for making a classic cheese pizza at home:

Ingredients

• 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
2. Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the dough to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.
3. Add Sauce: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese and sprinkle with dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder (if using).
5. Bake: Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or pizza stone). Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice and serve hot.

Conclusion

National Cheese Pizza Day is a celebration of one of the most beloved and classic pizza varieties. Whether you’re ordering from your favorite pizzeria, making your own pizza at home, or hosting a pizza party, this day is all about enjoying the simple and delicious combination of dough, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. On September 5th, take the opportunity to savor a slice (or several) of cheese pizza and share the joy with others.