🛒 Ingredients
For the Dough (if making from scratch):
- 🍞 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 🌿 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 💧 3/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 🧂 1 tsp salt
- 🍯 1 tsp sugar
- 🫒 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Toppings:
- 🍅 1/2 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 🧀 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into rounds
- 🌿 1–2 fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 🫒 1 tbsp olive oil
- 🧂 1/2 tsp salt
- 🌶️ 1/4 tsp black pepper
🍳 Instructions
Prepare the Dough (if homemade)
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead and Rest:
- Knead the dough for 5–7 minutes on a floured surface until smooth. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
(Skip this section if using store-bought pizza dough.)
Assemble the Pizza
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- Shape the Dough:
- Roll the pizza dough into a 10–12 inch circle on a floured surface. Transfer to a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Add the Toppings:
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Place the mozzarella slices evenly on top of the sauce. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
Bake the Pizza
- Bake:
- Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or pizza stone). Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish:
- Remove the pizza from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves.
Serve
- Slice and Enjoy:
- Slice the pizza into wedges and serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
💡 Tips and Variations
- 🍅 Tomato Sauce: Use San Marzano tomatoes for an authentic flavor.
- 🧄 Add Garlic: Add minced garlic or garlic-infused olive oil for extra depth.
- 🌱 Vegan Option: Replace mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- 🍕 Crispier Crust: Bake on a preheated pizza stone for the perfect crispy base.
🍹 Serving Suggestions
Pair this Margherita Pizza with a fresh arugula salad, a glass of red wine like Chianti, or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Margherita Pizza is a timeless Italian classic that celebrates simplicity with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The combination of tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a perfectly balanced, restaurant-quality pizza you can enjoy at home.
