Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, mix 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. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Assembling the Pizza
- 5
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and if using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
- 6
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll or stretch the dough into a round pizza shape.
- 7
Add Sauce and Cheese
Transfer the shaped dough to a baking sheet or pizza peel. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface, leaving a small border. Tear the fresh mozzarella and distribute it evenly on top.
- 8
Season and Bake
Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 9
Add Basil
Remove the pizza from the oven, and immediately top with fresh basil leaves. Let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing.