Description
This homemade Margherita Pizza captures the essence of Italian cooking with a crispy crust, fresh mozzarella, tangy crushed tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier choice)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3/4 cup warm water (around 110°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves (about a handful)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Activate the yeast by mixing warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir to form dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (250°C). If using a pizza stone, place it inside to heat.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and split into two portions. Roll out each to your preferred thickness.
- Place the dough on parchment paper or a pizza peel. Spread crushed tomatoes evenly, leaving a border around the edge.
- Add mozzarella slices, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven, top with fresh basil, and allow to cool slightly. Drizzle with more olive oil before serving.
Notes
Use a hot oven and don’t overload the pizza with toppings. Letting the dough rise longer (especially overnight in the fridge) brings out more flavor. For a spicier touch, sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking. Try different tomato varieties like plum for a sweeter finish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: pizza, Margherita, mozzarella, basil, Italian recipe, homemade pizza