Pizza Margherita Recipe
Classic pizza topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and 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 and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mix and olive oil.
- 3
Knead Dough
Mix until the dough comes together, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Pizza Assembly
- 5
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to the highest setting (usually around 475°F or 245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- 6
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down, then roll it out into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.
- 7
Add Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 8
Add Cheese
Tear the fresh mozzarella into smaller pieces and distribute them evenly on top of the sauce.
- 9
Add Basil and Seasoning
Scatter fresh basil leaves over the cheese and drizzle with olive oil. Add salt to taste.
- 10
Bake Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a minute, slice, and serve hot.