Margherita Pizza

Create the perfect homemade Margherita Pizza with this classic recipe! Featuring a crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this pizza is a timeless favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
• For the Toppings:
  • ½ cup tomato sauce (preferably San Marzano)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until the dough comes together.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Toppings:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
   • Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to your desired thickness.
   • Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the base, leaving a small border for the crust.
   • Arrange the mozzarella slices on top, then sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Bake the Pizza:
   • Transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
4. Add Basil and Serve:
   • Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately scatter fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle with olive oil before slicing and serving.

Tips:

• Use a pizza stone for an evenly baked crust.
• Substitute fresh mozzarella with shredded mozzarella if needed.
• Add a touch of chili flakes for a spicy twist.

You can visit our Pizza Recipes section for even more delicious recipes.

FAQ:

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes! Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough? A: Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a convenient alternative.

Q: How can I make this pizza vegan? A: Replace mozzarella with vegan cheese and use a dairy-free crust.