Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and 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.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let it Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Assembling the Pizza
- 5
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually around 475°F or 245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- 6
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide it into two equal portions and shape each into a ball. Roll out one ball into a 12-inch circle.
- 7
Add Sauce and Cheese
Transfer the rolled-out dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Tear fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute it evenly over the sauce.
- 8
Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle the pizza with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste.
- 9
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone). Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 10
Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve hot.