Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic 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 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well.
- 3
Combine Ingredients
Once the yeast is activated, add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- 4
Knead Dough
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- 5
Let Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Topping Preparation
- 6
Prepare Tomatoes
Slice fresh tomatoes into thin rounds and set aside.
- 7
Prepare Mozzarella
Tear fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
Pizza Assembly
- 8
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- 9
Roll Out Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- 10
Prepare Pizza Base
Transfer the rolled dough onto a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 11
Add Toppings
Drizzle olive oil over the dough and spread it evenly. Arrange the tomato slices on top, followed by the mozzarella pieces.
- 12
Season Pizza
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and scatter fresh basil leaves over the top.
- 13
Bake Pizza
Carefully slide the pizza into the preheated oven (or onto the hot pizza stone) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 14
Cool and Slice
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
