Pizza Margherita

🕒 Prep: 30 min
🔥 Cook: 12 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Pizza Margherita is a classic Italian dish that perfectly balances simplicity and flavor. With its fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's an ideal recipe for both novice cooks and pizza aficionados. This homemade version promises a crispy crust and a delightful blend of creamy mozzarella and aromatic basil.

Ingredients for Pizza Margherita

Flour forms the base of your pizza dough, providing the necessary structure. All-purpose flour works well for a light, airy crust.

Salt enhances the flavor of the dough and balances the yeast activity.

Yeast is the key to a good rise, helping your dough become light and chewy.

Warm water activates the yeast and aids in forming a pliable dough.

Olive oil adds richness to the dough and helps it stretch easily.

Tomato sauce is the base for your toppings, providing a sweet and tangy flavor profile.

Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a creamy and slightly tangy cheese layer.

Basil leaves add a burst of freshness and a hint of spice that complements the cheese and sauce.

Sea salt and black pepper finish the pizza, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a pizza stone for an extra crispy crust; preheat it in the oven for the best results.
  • Let the dough rest if it's too elastic when you're rolling it out — it needs some time to relax.
  • Fresh mozzarella can be quite watery; pat it dry before using to prevent a soggy pizza.
  • If you have extra time, let the dough rise longer for a deeper flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pizza Margherita pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. A glass of chilled white wine or a light beer complements the fresh flavors nicely. Consider serving with a side of marinated olives for a true Italian experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is recommended for its vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, a sprinkle of dried basil can be used before baking.
Is there a gluten-free option for this dough?
Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Adjust the water as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy crust.

Pizza Margherita Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it's hot enough for a crispy crust. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a 1/4 ounce packet of active dry yeast. Gradually pour in 3/4 cup of warm water and 1 tablespoon of olive oil, mixing until the dough comes together.

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes. You're looking for a smooth and elastic texture. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise for 30 minutes. This short rise time is perfect for a quick dinner.

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a thin circle on a floured surface. Transfer this onto a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread 1 cup of tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Arrange 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella slices over the sauce.

Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil, and season with 1/4 teaspoon each of sea salt and black pepper. Slice and serve hot.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to make with a short rise time for the dough.
  • Uses fresh and simple ingredients for a burst of authentic flavor.
  • Perfect for a casual dinner or impressing guests with homemade pizza skills.
  • Customizable — add your favorite toppings or keep it traditional.

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/4 oz active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup tomato sauce
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1 tsp olive oil for drizzling
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
3. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 30 minutes.
6. Roll out the dough into a thin circle on a floured surface.
7. Transfer the dough onto a pizza stone or baking sheet.
8. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. Arrange the mozzarella slices over the sauce.
10. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves.
12. Drizzle with olive oil and season with sea salt and black pepper.
13. Slice and serve hot.

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