Pizza Margherita Recipe
Traditional pizza with tomato, 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 (around 110°F) and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let 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 activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough 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 and cover with a damp cloth. 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) to ensure a crispy crust.
- 6
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a round shape to fit your pizza stone or baking sheet.
- 7
Add Tomato Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- 8
Add Cheese and Basil
Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute evenly over the sauce. Add fresh basil leaves on top.
- 9
Season and Drizzle
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
- 10
Bake the Pizza
Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a minute, slice, and serve hot.