Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza topped with mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and tomato sauce.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water with active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Mix until a dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Topping Preparation
- 5
Prepare Sauce
If using homemade tomato sauce, prepare it by blending fresh tomatoes, salt, and seasoning to taste. Otherwise, use store-bought sauce.
- 6
Prepare Cheese
Slice fresh mozzarella cheese into thin rounds.
- 7
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
Assemble and Bake
- 8
Shape Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a 12-inch circle.
- 9
Add Sauce and Cheese
Transfer the shaped dough onto a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border. Evenly distribute the mozzarella slices on top.
- 10
Bake Pizza
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Carefully slide the pizza into the oven (or onto the pizza stone) and bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Add Basil
Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
- 12
Slice and Serve
Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve hot.