Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSelva Negra Restaurant MiamiMargherita Pizza Recipe

Margherita Pizza Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves2

Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil.

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Ingredients

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Dough

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Activate the Yeast

    In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

  2. 2

    Mix the Dough

    In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the flour mixture along with olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.

  3. 3

    Knead the Dough

    Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  4. 4

    Let the Dough Rise

    Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Sauce Preparation

  1. 5

    Cook the Sauce

    In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assembly and Baking

  1. 6

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.

  2. 7

    Shape the Dough

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide it into two portions for two pizzas. Roll out each portion into a 12-inch circle.

  3. 8

    Assemble the Pizza

    Place the rolled-out dough on a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top and drizzle with olive oil.

  4. 9

    Bake the Pizza

    Carefully transfer the pizza to the oven (or onto the hot pizza stone). Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

  5. 10

    Add Basil and Serve

    Once out of the oven, scatter fresh basil leaves over the pizza. Let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing and serving.

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