Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza 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 (110°F/43°C) with the active dry yeast and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the 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 greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Pizza Assembly
- 5
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to the highest setting (usually around 475°F to 500°F or 245°C to 260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
- 6
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle or your desired thickness.
- 7
Add the Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the shaped dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 8
Add Cheese and Basil
Tear the fresh mozzarella cheese into pieces and distribute them over the sauce. Scatter fresh basil leaves on top.
- 9
Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the pizza for added flavor.
- 10
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone). Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a minute, slice, and serve hot with extra basil if desired.