Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza topped with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, mix warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the surface and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 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 with a spoon until a dough starts to form. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Pizza Assembly
- 5
Prepare Toppings
While the dough is rising, slice the fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into thin slices.
- 6
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to the highest setting, typically around 250°C (482°F), and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- 7
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll out the dough into a round shape, about 12 inches in diameter.
- 8
Assemble the Pizza
Transfer the rolled-out dough to a parchment-lined pizza peel or a baking sheet. Brush the surface with olive oil, then layer the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella, leaving some space between each slice.
- 9
Add Basil and Salt
Tear the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the pizza. Add salt to taste.
- 10
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- 11
Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a minute, then slice and serve hot.