Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until it forms a dough.
- 3
Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp 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) for at least 30 minutes.
- 6
Shape Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll or stretch it into a 12-inch circle.
- 7
Add Sauce
Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the base, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 8
Add Cheese and Basil
Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute them evenly over the sauce. Scatter the fresh basil leaves on top.
- 9
Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 10
Bake Pizza
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Serve
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a minute, slice, and serve hot!

