Written by: Nonna Maria · Expert in Italian Cuisine, Gluten-Free Cooking, Traditional Recipes
Published: February 5, 2024
We strive to provide well-researched, factual content. If you notice any errors, please contact us.
Traditional Margherita Pizza: Simple And Flavorful
Photo by Alena Shekhovtcova on Pexels.
Introduction
Have you ever craved a simple and flavorful pizza that reminds you of the authentic Italian taste? Look no further because we have the perfect recipe for you! Traditional Margherita Pizza is a timeless classic that brings together the freshness of tomatoes, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the aromatic goodness of basil. In this article, we'll walk you through the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make this delightful pizza right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To make a Traditional Margherita Pizza, you'll need the following:
- 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of warm water
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 cups of crushed tomatoes
- 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- A bunch of fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- 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 soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a baking stone or sheet in the oven to heat.
- Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle.
- Place the dough circles onto a baking sheet or pizza peel dusted with flour or cornmeal.
- Spread about 1 cup of crushed tomatoes evenly over each dough circle. Leave a border around the edges for the crust.
- Layer the sliced mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully transfer the pizzas onto the preheated baking stone or sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove the pizzas from the oven and garnish each with a generous handful of fresh basil leaves.
- Let the pizzas cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Now, you can enjoy the simplicity and the burst of flavors in this Traditional Margherita Pizza right at home. It's a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style!
About This Article