Pizza Margherita Recipe
Classic pizza with tomato sauce and mozzarella.
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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) with sugar and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- 3
Knead Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Assembling and Baking
- 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 it out into a round 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 over the sauce.
- 8
Season Pizza
Drizzle olive oil over the top, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 9
Bake Pizza
Transfer the pizza to a pizza stone or baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- 10
Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve hot.
