Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza Recipe

Descriptions

Introduction
Margherita pizza is a classic Italian dish known for its simplicity and fresh flavors. With a crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this pizza is a favorite worldwide. If you’ve ever wanted to recreate the authentic taste of a Margherita pizza at home, this step-by-step recipe will guide you to perfection!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 200g fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced or shredded)
• Fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Optional: Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Mix until it forms a dough.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for a minute.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two portions (for two pizzas).
3. Roll out one portion into a 10–12 inch circle on a floured surface.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

1. Transfer the rolled-out dough to parchment paper for easy handling.
2. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
3. Add slices of mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and add a few fresh basil leaves.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

1. Carefully slide the pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
2. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
3. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with more fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
2. Slice and serve hot with your favorite beverage!

Tips for the Perfect Margherita Pizza

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially fresh mozzarella and basil.
• A pizza stone helps achieve a crispy crust but isn’t essential.
• Don’t overload the toppings; simplicity is key for a Margherita pizza.

Conclusion
Making Margherita pizza at home is a rewarding experience, and it’s surprisingly easy with this recipe. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this pizza will impress everyone. Try it today and enjoy a slice of Italy in your own kitchen!