12" Margherita Recipe
Crushed plum tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella and fresh basil (deck baked)
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Ingredients
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Pizza Dough
Pizza Toppings
Method
Prepare the Dough
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it's frothy.
- 2
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt.
- 3
Combine Ingredients
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- 4
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Sauce
- 6
Assemble the Pizza
- 7
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) or set up a pizza stone if using.
- 8
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and place it on a floured surface. Roll it out to a 12-inch circle.
- 9
Add Sauce
Spread the prepared crushed tomato sauce evenly over the base of the dough.
- 10
Top with Cheese
Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute it evenly over the sauce.
- 11
Add Fresh Basil
Scatter fresh basil leaves on top of the cheese.
Bake the Pizza
- 12
Bake
Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven or pizza stone and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- 13
Cool and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve hot.

