Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with fresh mozzarella and basil
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, mix warm water (about 110°F/43°C) with the active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix Dough Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Mix until the dough starts to come together, then transfer it to a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Assembling the Pizza
- 5
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to its highest setting (around 475°F/245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside 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 to a 12-inch round shape.
- 7
Add Tomato Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 8
Add Cheese and Basil
Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute them evenly over the sauce. Add the fresh basil leaves on top.
- 9
Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle olive oil over the top of the pizza and sprinkle with salt to taste.
- 10
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Slice and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a minute, slice it, and serve hot.
