Classic Margherita Pizza

 

Introduction: Margherita pizza is the epitome of simplicity and elegance. With its minimalistic yet delicious combination of fresh ingredients, this pizza has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. In this recipe, we'll guide you through making a classic Margherita pizza that's perfect for a cozy evening at home or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

For the Pizza Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Pizza Toppings:

• 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pizza sauce
• 1 1/2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn into pieces
• 2-3 ripe plum tomatoes, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

Prepare the Pizza Dough:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes or until it becomes frothy.

2. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center.

3. Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well of the flour mixture.

4. Stir the ingredients together until they form a shaggy dough.

5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

6. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Pizza:

7. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can go (usually around 500°F or 260°C) and place a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet in the oven to heat.

8. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions.

9. On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference.

10. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a piece of parchment paper.

11. Spread half of the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

12. Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the sauce, followed by the fresh mozzarella cheese.

13. Season the pizza with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.

14. Carefully slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto the preheated baking stone or baking sheet in the oven.

15. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden, and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

16. Remove the pizza from the oven, garnish it with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil.

17. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and ingredients if you're making two pizzas.

18. Slice the Margherita pizza, serve, and enjoy!

Pro Tips:

• For an authentic Margherita pizza, use San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce.
• Don't overload the pizza with toppings; the beauty of the Margherita lies in its simplicity.
• If you don't have a pizza stone, you can use a baking sheet, but the stone helps create a crisper crust.

Now you're ready to savor the classic flavors of a homemade Margherita pizza, straight from your own kitchen!