Jun 09 2026
Restaurants›Paesanos›Margherita Recipe

Margherita Recipe

Inspired by Paesanos
Time2h
Serves2

San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, parmesan, basil, extra virgin olive oil

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Ingredients

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Pizza Dough

San Marzano Tomato Sauce

Cheese & Toppings

Method

Pizza Dough

  1. 1

    Activate Yeast

    In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5–7 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.

  2. 2

    Mix Dough

    Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then incorporate olive oil.

  3. 3

    Knead and Rise

    Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

San Marzano Tomato Sauce

  1. 4

    Prepare Sauce

    In a bowl, gently crush San Marzano tomatoes by hand. Stir in salt and olive oil. Do not cook the sauce; keep it fresh and uncooked for classic Margherita flavor.

Cheese & Toppings

  1. 5

    Prepare Cheese

    Slice or tear fresh mozzarella into small pieces and set on paper towels to remove excess moisture. Finely grate the parmesan cheese.

  2. 6

    Prepare Basil

    Rinse basil leaves gently and pat dry. Keep whole for topping after baking or tear just before use.

Assembling & Baking

  1. 7

    Preheat Oven

    Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C). If using a pizza stone or steel, place it in the oven while preheating for at least 30 minutes.

  2. 8

    Shape Dough

    Punch down risen dough and divide into 2 equal portions. Stretch each portion into a 10–12 inch round, leaving a slightly thicker edge for the crust.

  3. 9

    Assemble Pizza

    Spread a thin, even layer of tomato sauce over the dough. Distribute mozzarella evenly, then sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

  4. 10

    Bake

    Transfer pizza to the hot stone or baking sheet. Bake for 7–10 minutes, or until crust is blistered and cheese is melted and lightly browned.

  5. 11

    Finish and Serve

    Remove pizza from oven, top with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Slice and serve immediately.

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