Tonnata Pizza: A Classic of Neapolitan Cuisine
Neapolitan cuisine is, by definition, the cradle of pasta, and one of the most representative pizzas you’ll find in any Italian restaurant is the tuna pizza, also known as "Tonnata." This Italian pizza inherits the purity of the typical ingredients of the city of Naples. Since its beginnings, fish has been a fundamental ingredient in Italian dishes, as evidenced by recipes like spaghetti frutti di mare.
Although there are no official studies on the exact origins of the Tonnata pizza, we’ve conducted our own research to bring you three fascinating facts about this delicious Neapolitan speciality.
1. The Unknown Origin of the Tonnata Pizza
According to some historical sources, and as we explained in our article about the Margherita pizza, it’s believed that pizza began to gain popularity after 1492, when the discovery of new ingredients like tomatoes transformed culinary preparations. At that time, most pizzaiolos made a simpler version similar to focaccia, accompanied by local ingredients, especially from the sea or the countryside.
Tuna, due to its abundance and ease of fishing, was one of the main ingredients in the earliest versions of pizza. As with other traditional pizzas like Diavola, 4 Stagioni, or Pomodorini, the Tonnata pizza does not have a specific creator but is the result of local variations that have gained popularity over time.
Note: Due to its importance in the marine ecosystem, World Tuna Day is celebrated every year on May 2nd.
2. An Easy Recipe to Prepare
The Tonnata pizza is an easy dish to prepare and, since the 18th century, has become a gastronomic reference for its versatility and tradition. Based on the Margherita pizza, this recipe features a combination of basic ingredients: tomato, tuna, onion, and mozzarella. A classic combination that faithfully represents Mediterranean cuisine and the culinary tradition of the Piemonte region.
On the Internet, you can find numerous Tonnata pizza recipes, some artisanal and others ready to enjoy. Tonnata pizza is perfect for those who want to try a classic and easy version of Italian cuisine.
3. A Similar Story with Vitello Tonnato
Vitello Tonnato (or Vitel Toné) is a traditional Italian dish from the Piemonte region, prepared with veal, tuna sauce, capers, and tuna fillets. This dish, typical of Christmas celebrations, shares a curious connection with the Tonnata pizza.
In the 18th century, the introduction of new ingredients and culinary techniques, promoted by figures like Pellegrino Artusi (author of the influential book “La scienza in cucina e l’arte di mangiar bene”), encouraged the creation of new dishes. While we can’t confirm that Artusi created the Tonnata pizza, his work was fundamental in the evolution of Italian cuisine and may have inspired the popularisation of recipes featuring ingredients like tuna.
Discover Tonnata Pizza at Rossini
The next time you visit our restaurant, don’t miss the chance to try authentic Tonnata pizza—a little piece of Italian tradition in every bite. We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy this quintessential Neapolitan dish!