Margherita Pizza Recipe

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Pizza Dough

   In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.

2. 2

   Knead the Dough

   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. 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 until doubled in size.

3. 3

   Preheat Oven

   Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

4. 4

   Shape the Pizza

   Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle or stretch it by hand. Place it on a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. 5

   Add Toppings

   Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add fresh basil leaves.

6. 6

   Bake the Pizza

   Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone). Bake for about 10-12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

7. 7

   Serve

   Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a couple of minutes, slice, and serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.