Traditional Margherita Pizza: Simple And Flavorful

February 5, 2024

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

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. 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.
3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 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.
5. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a baking stone or sheet in the oven to heat.
6. 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.
7. Place the dough circles onto a baking sheet or pizza peel dusted with flour or cornmeal.
8. Spread about 1 cup of crushed tomatoes evenly over each dough circle. Leave a border around the edges for the crust.
9. Layer the sliced mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
10. 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.
11. Remove the pizzas from the oven and garnish each with a generous handful of fresh basil leaves.
12. 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!