Margherita Pizza Recipe

Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast is activated, add it to the flour mixture along with olive oil.

Knead the Dough

Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Let Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) for at least 30 minutes before baking the pizza.

Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll or stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle.

Add Tomato Sauce

Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving about an inch around the edges.

Add Cheese and Basil

Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute them evenly over the sauce. Add fresh basil leaves on top.

Drizzle Olive Oil

Lightly drizzle olive oil over the top of the pizza and sprinkle with salt to taste.

Bake the Pizza

Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a couple of minutes, then slice and serve hot.