Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza 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, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Mix the ingredients until a dough starts to form. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let it Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Assembling the Pizza
- 5
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°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 shape.
- 7
Add Sauce and Cheese
Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a pizza stone. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border. Tear the mozzarella cheese into pieces and distribute it on top of the sauce.
- 8
Bake the Pizza
Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with salt to taste. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 9
Garnish and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Top with fresh basil leaves, slice, and serve hot.