Margherita Pizza Recipe
Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and olive oil
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Make Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix 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 it is smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Topping Preparation
- 5
Prepare Sauce
If using store-bought, simply have the tomato sauce ready. If making fresh, cook tomatoes with salt and spices until thickened.
- 6
Slice Mozzarella
While the dough is rising, slice the fresh mozzarella cheese into thin rounds.
- 7
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to the highest temperature (usually around 475°F or 245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking tray inside to heat.
Assembly and Baking
- 8
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, stretch or roll the dough into your desired pizza shape and thickness.
- 9
Add Toppings
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the base of the pizza. Distribute the sliced mozzarella cheese on top, followed by fresh basil leaves.
- 10
Drizzle Olive Oil
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the pizza for extra flavor.
- 11
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking tray and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- 12
Serve
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve hot.