Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F) with sugar and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt.
- 3
Combine Ingredients
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until dough starts to come together.
- 4
Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Pizza Assembly
- 6
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- 7
Shape Pizza Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll or stretch it into a 12-inch round.
- 8
Add Sauce
Transfer the shaped dough to a piece of parchment paper. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the base, leaving a small border around the edge.
- 9
Add Cheese and Basil
Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute evenly over the sauce. Scatter fresh basil leaves on top.
- 10
Season and Drizzle
Season the pizza with salt and freshly ground pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
- 11
Bake Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza (along with the parchment paper) onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- 12
Cool and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.