Description
Classic Margherita Pizza
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
1 tbsp sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
For the Toppings:
1/2 cup tomato sauce (preferably San Marzano)
2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Olive oil, for drizzling
Salt and pepper, to taste
Sesame seeds or other toppings (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pizza Dough:
In a bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water, then add yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes foamy.
Add flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Pizza:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven as it preheats.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or a baking sheet.
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Place slices of fresh mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake the Pizza:
Bake the pizza for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the pizza from the oven and drizzle with olive oil.
Garnish and Serve:
Top the pizza with fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper.
Slice and serve the delicious, homemade Margherita pizza!
This classic Margherita pizza is simple, yet full of flavor with its fresh ingredients. The crispy crust, melted mozzarella, and fragrant basil make it a timeless favorite. Enjoy!
