Margherita Pizza Recipe
Traditional pizza topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, 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 frothy.
- 2
Make Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Pizza Assembly
- 5
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
- 6
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, season crushed tomatoes with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
- 7
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 round shape, about 12 inches in diameter.
- 8
Add Toppings
Transfer the shaped dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread the seasoned crushed tomatoes evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute them evenly on top. Drizzle with olive oil and add fresh basil leaves.
- 9
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone). Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- 10
Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Slice and serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.