Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with fresh mozzarella 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 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 and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough starts to form.
- 3
Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
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 about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Toppings Preparation
- 5
Prepare Sauce
In a bowl, combine crushed tomatoes and salt. Mix well to create the pizza sauce.
- 6
Slice Mozzarella
Slice the fresh mozzarella cheese into thin rounds.
- 7
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually around 475°F / 245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
Pizza Assembly
- 8
Shape Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll or stretch it out into a 12-inch round.
- 9
Add Sauce
Transfer the shaped dough to a piece of parchment paper. Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 10
Add Toppings
Arrange the mozzarella slices evenly over the sauce and scatter fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle with olive oil.
- 11
Bake Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza (with parchment) to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 12
Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. Serve hot.