Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
- 3
Knead Dough
Mix until a dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Topping Preparation
- 5
Prepare Tomatoes
Wash and slice the fresh tomatoes into thin rounds. Set aside.
- 6
Prepare Cheese
Tear the fresh mozzarella into small pieces or slice it. Set aside.
- 7
Prepare Basil
Wash the fresh basil leaves and pat them dry.
Pizza Assembly and Baking
- 8
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to the highest setting, usually about 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
- 9
Shape Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll or stretch it into a round shape about 12 inches in diameter.
- 10
Add Toppings
Transfer the dough onto a pizza peel or baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then layer the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves evenly over the surface.
- 11
Season Pizza
Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 12
Bake Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone) and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 13
Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a minute, then slice and serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
