Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F/43°C) and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Dough Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil.
- 3
Knead Dough
Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a 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) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- 6
Shape Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.
- 7
Add Sauce and Cheese
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute it evenly over the sauce.
- 8
Season the Pizza
Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 9
Bake Pizza
Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 10
Add Basil
Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
- 11
Serve
Slice the pizza and serve hot. Enjoy your classic Margherita pizza!