Margherita Pizza Recipe
Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves.
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Ingredients
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Dough
Sauce
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix Dough Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- 3
Knead the 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 with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Sauce Preparation
- 5
- 6
Add Tomatoes
Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, salt, and chopped fresh basil. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pizza Assembly
- 7
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- 8
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle.
- 9
Add Sauce and Toppings
Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or parchment paper. Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the dough. Layer the fresh mozzarella slices on top.
- 10
Bake the Pizza
Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Garnish and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, drizzle with olive oil, and top with fresh basil leaves. Slice and enjoy!