Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with 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 (about 110°F/43°C) with sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Mix together until a dough forms. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let the Dough Rise
Place the 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.
Assembling the Pizza
- 5
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it's hot enough for baking.
- 6
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle or stretch it by hand.
- 7
Add Sauce and Cheese
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. Tear the fresh mozzarella into small pieces and scatter them over the sauce.
- 8
Bake the Pizza
Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the top and sprinkle salt to taste. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 9
Finish with Basil
Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves. Allow to cool for a minute before slicing.
