Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with tomato sauce, fresh 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. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough begins to form.
- 3
Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Pizza Assembly
- 5
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to the highest setting (usually around 475°F or 245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
- 6
Shape Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- 7
Add Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 8
Add Cheese
Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute them evenly over the sauce.
- 9
Bake Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 10
Add Basil
Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil.
- 11
Slice and Serve
Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes, slice it, and serve hot.