Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, mix 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 bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
- 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 it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Pizza Assembly
- 5
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) or as high as it will go.
- 6
Shape Pizza
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle or stretch it by hand.
- 7
Add Sauce and Cheese
Transfer the shaped dough onto a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the base, leaving a small border. Tear fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute over the sauce.
- 8
Bake Pizza
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- 9
Add Basil and Season
Remove the pizza from the oven. Add fresh basil leaves on top and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 10
Slice and Serve
Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes, then slice and serve warm.