Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza topped with fresh mozzarella and basil.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F) with sugar and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Assembling the Pizza
- 5
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 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 or stretch it out into a 12-inch round.
- 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 smaller pieces and distribute them evenly over the sauce. Arrange the fresh basil leaves on top.
- 9
Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle the pizza with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 10
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the hot pizza stone) and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Cool and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice and enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza!