Margherita Pizza Recipe
Traditional pizza topped with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and 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, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt.
- 3
Combine Ingredients
Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- 4
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it 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) to prepare for baking the pizza.
- 7
Prepare Toppings
Slice the ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese into thin rounds. Set aside.
- 8
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness, usually about 12 inches in diameter.
- 9
Add Toppings
Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then layer the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Sprinkle with salt and add fresh basil leaves.
- 10
Bake the Pizza
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Slice and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a couple of minutes, then slice and serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.