National Margherita Pizza Day
Today has been National Margherita Pizza Day.
It has not quite worked out the way I thought it might.
For starters, I discovered that Margherita Pizza does not come with tequila. Wrong kind of Margarita. That was disappointing.
Then, as I walked away to do something else, I heard someone ask, “Is it okay to eat?”
I said yes, but I need enough left to photograph.
Apparently I should have been more specific.
Margherita pizza is one of the simplest and most recognizable pizza styles. It is traditionally made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil. According to the popular story, it was created in Naples, Italy, in 1889 and named after Queen Margherita of Savoy. The red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil were said to represent the colors of the Italian flag.
In this case, the pizza survived long enough for me to get a photograph, although just barely.
To see my completed food photographs, along with my aviation, fitness, fashion, and other photography projects, please visit my website at https://www.secondfocus.com. Thanks!
National Panini Day — Grocery Store Counter Style
Finding a panini in the world of fast food is a bit like spotting a vintage sports car in a grocery store parking lot — rare, but worth the stop. My hunt ended here in Palm Springs, not at a café or chain, but at the counter of Jensen’s Foods. Freshly made when ordered for takeout. Not fast food fast, but quick enough.
This is their Arrivederci Panini: peppercorn turkey, white cheddar, Genoa salami, onion, pepperoncini, and basil on focaccia bread, finished with Italian vinaigrette. Pressed to order, sliced, and packed to go — it’s proof that “fast” can still be fresh.
The panini — an Italian term for a small bread roll or sandwich — became popular in Italy in the mid-20th century and found its way into American cafés in the 1980s and 1990s, often prepared on a ridged grill to create its signature pressed texture and golden stripes. Once considered an upscale alternative to the standard sandwich, today the panini is a staple in cafés and delis around the world.
Photographed here against my signature black background, the stacked halves show off the grilled bread, melted cheese, and layers of savory filling. A fitting way to mark the day — and maybe an excuse to pick up lunch.
Hungry? More of my Commercial Food Photography on my website at https://www.secondfocus.com/index/G0000WFAqDJQOgKU
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