Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza topped with tomato sauce, 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 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt.
- 3
Combine Ingredients
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until combined.
- 4
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Assembling and Baking
- 6
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- 7
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out to your desired thickness, about 12 inches in diameter.
- 8
Add Tomato Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 9
Add Cheese
Tear fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute them evenly over the sauce.
- 10
Season and Add Basil
Drizzle olive oil over the top, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Scatter fresh basil leaves on top.
- 11
Bake Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven or pizza stone. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- 12
Slice and Serve
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, slice into wedges, and serve hot.