Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with mozzarella cheese 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 and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center, then add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
- 3
Knead Dough
Mix until a dough starts to form. Transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Topping Preparation
- 5
- 6
Prepare Cheese
Slice the mozzarella cheese into thin rounds or tear into small pieces for even distribution on the pizza.
Pizza Assembly
- 7
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to the highest setting, usually around 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
- 8
Shape Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll or stretch the dough into a round shape, about 12 inches in diameter.
- 9
Add Toppings
Spread a thin layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Evenly distribute the mozzarella cheese on top, and place fresh basil leaves.
- 10
Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the pizza before baking.
- 11
Bake Pizza
Transfer the pizza to the hot oven (or onto the preheated pizza stone) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 12
Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a minute, slice, and serve hot. Enjoy your homemade Margherita Pizza!