Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsKen's Artisan PizzaMargherita Pizza Recipe

Margherita Pizza Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves2

Tomato, mozzarella, basil

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Ingredients

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Dough

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Activate the Yeast

    In a small bowl, mix warm water (about 110°F) with the sugar and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.

  2. 2

    Make the Dough

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.

  3. 3

    Knead the Dough

    Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it into a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Pizza Assembly

  1. 4

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the pizza.

  2. 5

    Shape the Dough

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it back to the floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a ball. Roll out one ball into a 12-inch round pizza crust.

  3. 6

    Add the Sauce and Cheese

    Spread half of the tomato sauce over the rolled-out dough. Tear the fresh mozzarella into smaller pieces and distribute evenly on top of the sauce.

  4. 7

    Add Basil and Olive Oil

    Place fresh basil leaves over the mozzarella and drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil on top. Sprinkle with salt to taste.

  5. 8

    Bake the Pizza

    Transfer the pizza to a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

  6. 9

    Serve

    Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a minute, slice, and serve hot.

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