Pizza Margherita

🍕 Pizza Margherita – Classic, Fresh & Homemade



The Pizza Margherita is the quintessential Italian pizza — simple yet full of flavor. Made with a thin, crispy crust, fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil, this pizza celebrates fresh ingredients and tradition. Perfect for homemade pizza nights!


💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • ✅ Quick and easy homemade pizza

  • ✅ Fresh, simple ingredients highlight authentic flavors

  • ✅ Crispy crust with melty mozzarella

  • ✅ Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining


🛒 Ingredients

For the Dough (makes 2 medium pizzas):

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp sugar

  • 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 ¼ cups warm water

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (or passata)

  • 1 tsp olive oil

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced

  • Fresh basil leaves

  • Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling


👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Dough

  • In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.

  • Add warm water and olive oil, mix until dough forms.

  • Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  • Cover and let rise 1–2 hours until doubled.

2. Prepare the Sauce

  • Mix crushed tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning.

3. Shape the Pizza

  • Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).

  • Roll dough into a thin circle (~10–12 inches).

  • Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.

4. Assemble & Bake

  • Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a border for crust.

  • Arrange mozzarella slices on top.

  • Bake 10–12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

5. Finish with Basil

  • Remove from oven, top with fresh basil leaves.

  • Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and serve immediately.


🍴 Serving Ideas

  • Pair with a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette

  • Serve with garlic bread or antipasto on the side

  • Add a dash of chili flakes or balsamic glaze for extra flavor


💡 Tips & Variations

  • Crispier Crust: Preheat a pizza stone for at least 30 minutes.

  • Cheese Swap: Try buffalo mozzarella for creamier texture.

  • Extra Flavor: Add a drizzle of pesto or a sprinkle of Parmesan.

  • Make Ahead: Dough can be refrigerated overnight for deeper flavor.

 

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