Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked pizza wafting through your kitchen, is there? This Classic Margherita Pizza is a beautiful harmony of flavors, combining a perfectly crispy crust, rich crushed tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella cheese. Topped off with vibrant basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil, each slice promises a burst of flavor that will transport you straight to a sunny pizzeria in Italy. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends, this homemade pizza is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising time)
Yield: 1 pizza
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy—a little sign that our yeast is working its magic!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
- Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a dough begins to form. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and springy to the touch.
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size—a comforting sight!
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet inside to heat up—this will help achieve that perfect crust.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle.
- Transfer the rolled-out dough to a parchment paper-lined pizza peel or baking sheet for easy movement.
- Spread the crushed tomatoes over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for a nice crust.
- Evenly arrange the slices of fresh mozzarella on top of the tomatoes, and don’t forget to season it with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper for a little extra flavor.
- Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and delightful.
- Once baked to perfection, remove your pizza from the oven and crown it with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top before slicing, and get ready to enjoy!
Notes or Tips
Make sure to check the temperature of your water when activating the yeast; it should feel warm to the touch but not hot. Too hot can kill the yeast! For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the crushed tomatoes before spreading them on the dough.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough well helps develop gluten, which gives the pizza its wonderful texture. Baking on a hot stone or preheated baking sheet can simulate a traditional pizza oven, allowing for that coveted crispy crust. If you’d like a slightly charred taste, try broiling the pizza for the last minute or so of cooking—just keep a close eye on it!
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
What toppings can I add?
This Margherita pizza is perfect as is, but feel free to customize! Add sautéed mushrooms, pepperoni, or roasted vegetables for a personal twist.
Conclusion
This Classic Margherita Pizza showcases the beauty of simple, quality ingredients prepared with love. Homemade pizza not only nourishes the body but also the soul, bringing everyone together over a delicious meal. So gather your friends or family, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special. Happy cooking!