Homemade Margherita

by

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Drizzle of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients:
    Create a well in the center and add olive oil and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough:
    Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Let It Rise:
    Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Pizza:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
  2. Shape the Dough:
    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out to your desired thickness (about 12 inches in diameter for a large pizza).
  3. Transfer to Baking Surface:
    If using a pizza stone, place the rolled dough on a floured pizza peel. If using a baking sheet, place the dough directly on the greased or lined sheet.
  4. Add Sauce and Toppings:
    Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella on top. Season with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil.
  5. Bake the Pizza:
    If using a pizza stone, slide the pizza onto the stone. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly. If using a baking sheet, bake for the same time.
  6. Add Fresh Basil:
    Once out of the oven, top with fresh basil leaves and let cool for a couple of minutes.
  7. Slice and Serve:
    Slice your pizza and enjoy!