Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let it Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Pizza Assembly
- 5
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
- 6
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
- 7
Add Sauce and Cheese
Transfer the rolled out dough to a pizza peel or a parchment paper. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Tear the fresh mozzarella into chunks and distribute them evenly on top.
- 8
Season the Pizza
Drizzle olive oil over the top, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 9
Bake the Pizza
Carefully slide the pizza onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- 10
Add Basil
Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves. Let it cool for a minute before slicing.