Margherita Recipe
Classic pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Sauce
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast is activated, add it along with the olive oil to the flour mixture.
- 3
Knead Dough
Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Sauce Preparation
- 5
Prepare Tomatoes
In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 6
Cook Sauce
Add canned tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to the saucepan. Crush the tomatoes with a spoon, and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Pizza Assembly
- 7
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to the highest setting (usually around 250°C or 482°F) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- 8
Shape Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness (about 10-12 inches in diameter).
- 9
Add Sauce and Cheese
Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute them on top of the sauce.
- 10
Bake Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- 11
Garnish and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, top with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with olive oil. Cut into slices and serve immediately.