If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine and crave a simple yet flavorful dish, this Classic Margherita Pizza is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its perfect balance of tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil on a crisp yet tender crust, this pizza is a timeless favorite for a reason. I found this delightful recipe on I Wuv Cooking, and I’m thrilled to share it with you!
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Why Classic Margherita Pizza Is an All-Time Favorite
This pizza celebrates simplicity at its finest. The few, high-quality ingredients let each flavor shine, creating a dish that’s light, satisfying, and universally loved. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night, looking for a quick meal, or simply indulging in comfort food, this Margherita pizza is a fantastic choice.
Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe
Here’s how to make this delicious Margherita pizza at home with a few easy steps:
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (San Marzano preferred)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size. - Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside. - Shape the Dough:
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface into a thin circle. - Add the Sauce:
Spread a thin layer of crushed tomatoes over each pizza base. Sprinkle lightly with salt to enhance the flavor. - Layer the Toppings:
Evenly distribute the fresh mozzarella slices and scatter basil leaves over the sauce. Drizzle with olive oil for extra richness. - Bake to Perfection:
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 7-10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. - Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute. Slice and enjoy your homemade classic Margherita pizza!
Tips for the Best Margherita Pizza
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh mozzarella, high-quality canned tomatoes, and fragrant basil for the best flavor.
- Hot Oven is Key: A very hot oven ensures a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
- Customize the Crust: If you like your crust extra crispy, roll it thinner; for a chewier texture, keep it slightly thicker.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Classic Margherita Pizza is a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and always hits the spot. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.
Try it out and let me know if it becomes your go-to pizza recipe. And don’t forget to share this with friends who love authentic Italian flavors! For more timeless recipes like this, visit I Wuv Cooking.
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