Margherita Pizza Recipe
Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Tomato Sauce
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- 2
Mix Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- 3
Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let it Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Tomato Sauce Preparation
- 5
- 6
Simmer the Sauce
Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes to thicken. Stir in fresh basil leaves towards the end.
Pizza Assembly
- 7
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to the highest setting (usually around 475°F or 245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
- 8
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. On a floured surface, roll out one portion into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
- 9
Add Sauce and Toppings
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border. Tear fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute evenly over the sauce. Drizzle with olive oil.
- 10
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Garnish and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves. Let it cool for a couple of minutes, then slice and serve.
