Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the taste of a homemade Margherita pizza. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion. Follow this recipe to create a delicious Margherita pizza right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• Pizza Dough:
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
• Toppings:
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
   • Mix until the dough starts to come together, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • 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 it has doubled in size.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
3. Shape the Dough:
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and let them rest for a few minutes.
   • On a lightly floured surface, stretch each ball into a 12-inch circle. If the dough is too elastic, let it rest for a few more minutes before continuing.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Transfer the stretched dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a pizza peel if using a pizza stone.
   • Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
   • Season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
5. Bake the Pizza:
   • If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone. If using a baking sheet, place the pizza directly on the sheet.
   • Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately scatter fresh basil leaves over the top.
   • Allow the pizza to cool for a minute or two before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza with a side salad or a glass of wine for a complete meal. This classic recipe highlights the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients, making it a favorite for pizza lovers everywhere.