​Margherita Pizza

Ingredients:

• For the Pizza Dough:
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
• For the Pizza Sauce:
  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For Topping:
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pizza Dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
   • Mix until a dough forms, then transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Pizza Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat.
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Roll out each portion on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
   • If using a pizza stone, transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel dusted with flour. If using a baking sheet, lightly grease the sheet and place the dough on it.
4. Add the Toppings:
   • Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
   • Arrange the mozzarella slices evenly over the sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.
   • Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top.
5. Bake the Pizza:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • If using a pizza stone, transfer the pizza to the stone and bake for a similar amount of time.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
   • Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips:

• Dough: For a crispier crust, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or a steel baking sheet.
• Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is best for this recipe as it melts beautifully and adds great flavor.
• Basil: Add the fresh basil after baking to keep it vibrant and fresh.

Enjoy your homemade Margherita Pizza with its classic combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil!