Jul 14 2026

Margherita Verace Recipe

Time2h
Serves2

Make Margherita Verace Recipe in just 2h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Dough

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Mix the Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the yeast and salt.

  2. 2

    Add Water and Olive Oil

    Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture starts to come together.

  3. 3

    Knead the Dough

    Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

  4. 4

    First 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 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Topping Preparation

  1. 5

    Prepare Tomato Sauce

    While the dough is rising, crush the canned San Marzano tomatoes by hand or with a fork. Add salt to taste and mix well.

  2. 6

    Prepare Cheese and Basil

    Tear the fresh mozzarella cheese into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Rinse and dry the fresh basil leaves.

Assemble and Bake

  1. 7

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to its highest setting (around 475°F or 245°C) and if you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.

  2. 8

    Shape the Dough

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it in half. On a floured surface, stretch or roll out each dough ball into a 10-12 inch round.

  3. 9

    Add Sauce and Toppings

    Spread a thin layer of the crushed tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Scatter the torn mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves on top.

  4. 10

    Drizzle with Olive Oil

    Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the pizza.

  5. 11

    Bake the Pizza

    Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone) and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

  6. 12

    Serve

    Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a minute, slice, and serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.

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