Margherita Pizza Recipe

Here’s a classic recipe for Margherita Pizza, the iconic Italian pizza that highlights the simple, fresh ingredients. The key is to use high-quality mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil.

Margherita Pizza Recipe

Ingredients for Margherita Pizza

For the pizza dough:

• 500g (3 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour or 00 flour (for pizza)
• 325ml (1 1/3 cups) warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 7g (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the toppings:

• 400g (14 oz) can of crushed San Marzano tomatoes (or any high-quality canned tomatoes)
• 250g (9 oz) fresh mozzarella cheese (preferably buffalo mozzarella)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Make the dough:

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, then pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a dough starts to form.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
4. Let the dough rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

2. Prepare the toppings:

1. Tomato sauce: While the dough is rising, make the tomato sauce. If you’re using canned San Marzano tomatoes, crush them with your hands or a spoon in a bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and a little olive oil to taste. No cooking required—just fresh and simple.
2. Mozzarella: Tear the mozzarella into large chunks. If using fresh mozzarella, drain any excess liquid and pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture on the pizza.
3. Basil: Wash and dry the fresh basil leaves. Set them aside for later.

3. Shape the dough:

1. Preheat the oven: Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven and preheat it to its highest setting (typically around 475-500°F / 245-260°C) for at least 30 minutes. A hot oven is key to getting that crispy crust.
2. Stretch the dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into two portions (for two pizzas). On a floured surface, roll or stretch out one portion of dough into a round shape, about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) in diameter. You can use your hands to gently stretch it or a rolling pin if you prefer.

4. Assemble the pizza:

1. Add the sauce: Spread a thin layer of the crushed tomato sauce on the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
2. Add the mozzarella: Scatter the torn pieces of mozzarella cheese evenly over the tomato sauce.
3. Season: Add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil on top of the pizza.

5. Bake the pizza:

1. Bake: Carefully transfer the pizza to the hot pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Finish and serve:

1. Add fresh basil: Once the pizza is out of the oven, immediately top it with fresh basil leaves. The heat will wilt the basil slightly, releasing its fragrance.
2. Serve: Slice and enjoy your delicious Margherita pizza! Optionally, you can add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top for added richness.

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Tips:

• Dough fermentation: For an even better dough, you can let it rise in the fridge for 24 hours. This slow fermentation gives the dough extra flavor and texture.
• Stone or steel: If you have a pizza stone or steel, use it for a crispier crust. Preheat it in the oven for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Fresh ingredients: The simplicity of Margherita pizza relies on using the freshest ingredients possible, especially the mozzarella and basil.

Enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza—it’s as close as you can get to an authentic pizza in your own kitchen!

After try this recipe please let me know your thoughts .