Introduction

This classic Margherita pizza brings the authentic taste of Italy to your kitchen. With a crispy homemade crust, fresh tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, it's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

Tips for Success

• Hot oven: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible
• Thin crust: Roll the dough thin for a crispy base
• Fresh ingredients: Use the best quality mozzarella and basil you can find
• Don't overload: Less is more with toppings

Storage & Leftovers

Pizza is best eaten fresh from the oven. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheated in a 400°F oven for 5-10 minutes until crispy. You can also freeze the baked pizza for up to 2 months.

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 cups bread flour
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Toppings:

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

Make the Dough:

1. Mix dry ingredients: Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.

2. Add wet ingredients: Add warm water and olive oil, mix until dough forms.

3. Knead: Knead dough on floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. First rise: Place in oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.

Assemble and Bake:

5. Preheat oven: Heat oven to 475°F (245°C) with pizza stone if using.

6. Shape dough: Roll out dough on floured surface to desired thickness.

7. Add sauce: Spread tomato sauce evenly over dough, leaving edge for crust.

8. Add cheese: Arrange mozzarella slices over sauce.

9. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

10. Finish: Remove from oven, add fresh basil, drizzle with olive oil, and serve.

Variations

• Pepperoni: Add pepperoni slices before baking
• Vegetarian: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives
• White pizza: Skip tomato sauce, use ricotta and garlic
• Margherita plus: Add prosciutto after baking

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Pizza cutter
• Measuring cups and spoons