Margherita Recipe
Classic pizza with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate the 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 the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let the 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.
Assembling the Pizza
- 5
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- 6
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle or your desired shape.
- 7
Add the Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- 8
Add Cheese and Seasonings
Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and scatter it over the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 9
Bake the Pizza
Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone) and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- 10
Garnish and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, drizzle with olive oil, and top with fresh basil leaves. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.