Margherita Pizza Recipe
Traditional pizza with mozzarella cheese and fresh 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 5-10 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
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- 4
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5
Let the Dough 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 it doubles in size.
Assembly and Baking
- 6
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
- 7
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 round shape.
- 8
Add Tomato Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the pizza base, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 9
Add Cheese
Tear the fresh mozzarella cheese into pieces and distribute them evenly on top of the sauce.
- 10
Add Seasoning
Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 11
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 12
Add Fresh Basil
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
- 13
Slice and Serve
Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve hot.
