Margherita Recipe
Fresh mozzarella and basil with pizza cheese.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water (about 110°F) 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 the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- 3
Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Pizza Assembly
- 5
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (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 or stretch it into a round pizza shape (about 12 inches in diameter).
- 7
Add Sauce and Cheese
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute them evenly on top. Sprinkle the pizza cheese over the mozzarella.
- 8
Bake Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake in the oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 9
Add Basil and Serve
Once the pizza is out of the oven, scatter fresh basil leaves on top, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt to taste. Slice and serve hot.