Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh 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. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Dough Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast is activated, add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Assembling Pizza
- 5
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- 6
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a 12-inch round shape.
- 7
Add Tomato Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edge.
- 8
Add Cheese and Basil
Tear the fresh mozzarella into chunks and distribute evenly over the sauce. Add fresh basil leaves on top.
- 9
Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the pizza and sprinkle with salt to taste.
- 10
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or pizza stone) and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute before slicing. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.
