Classic Margherita Pizza | Easy Margherita pizza recipe

Classic Margherita Pizza: The Perfect Combination of Simplicity and Flavor

Introduction:

Pizza lovers around the world appreciate the timeless classic that is Margherita pizza. This Italian masterpiece captures the essence of simplicity with its few but high-quality ingredients. The combination of tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella cheese, aromatic basil leaves, and a crispy yet soft dough creates a harmonious symphony of flavors. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating your very own classic Margherita pizza that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

I. Gathering the Ingredients:

To start on your Margherita pizza journey, ensure that you have all the necessary ingredients at hand. Gathering high-quality ingredients is crucial for an authentic and delicious result. Here's what you'll need:

1. Pizza Dough:
• 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of warm water
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast
2. Tomato Sauce:
• 1 can (14 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
3. Toppings:
• 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
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II. Preparing the Pizza Dough:

The foundation of any great pizza lies in the dough. Follow these steps to prepare a soft and chewy pizza crust:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
3. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size

III. Assembling and Baking the Pizza:

Now that your dough is ready, it's time to bring all the elements together and bake your Margherita pizza to perfection:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet on the middle rack to heat up.
2. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference.
3. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto a piece of parchment paper. This will make it easier to slide the pizza onto the preheated baking surface.
4. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Use the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
5. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle them on top.
6. Once the pizza is fully assembled, slide it onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese melts and bubbles.
7. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle some extra-virgin olive oil over the top for added flavor.

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You have successfully crafted a classic Margher