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Easy Margherita Pizza Recipe

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3.8 from 65 reviews

This Easy Margherita Pizza recipe guides you through making a classic, fresh, and flavorful pizza with a crispy crust, topped with luscious fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a homemade Italian meal that’s both simple and satisfying.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1 package dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 3 1/2 cups flour (more or less for rolling)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Oil to coat the bowl

For the Toppings

  • Good olive oil for brushing
  • About 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • About 2 medium fresh tomatoes, thinly sliced
  • About 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (or 2 stems), sliced
  • Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the dry yeast and 1/4 cup of the warm water. Stir gently and let it sit until the yeast starts to bubble and foam, about 5-10 minutes, indicating it is active.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a stand mixer bowl, add 2 cups of flour and the teaspoon of salt. Mix briefly to combine.
  3. Add liquids and form dough: Pour the dissolved yeast mixture and the remaining 3/4 cup warm water into the bowl. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
  4. Knead the dough: Attach the dough hook to the mixer and gradually add 1 cup more flour. Continue kneading until the dough no longer sticks to your fingers, forming a smooth ball. Adjust flour amount as needed if dough is too sticky.
  5. First rise: Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough ball inside, turning it to coat evenly with oil. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 2 or more hours, until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down and rest: After rising, punch down the dough to release air. Let it relax for 10 minutes to make rolling easier.
  7. Shape the dough: Roll and stretch the dough firmly on a greased baking sheet into your desired shape and thickness, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
  8. Assemble pizza: Brush the top of the dough generously with good olive oil. Arrange sliced fresh mozzarella evenly over the surface, then add thinly sliced tomatoes on top.
  9. Bake the pizza: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Bake the pizza on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes, or until the crust is cooked through, golden brown, and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
  10. Add fresh basil and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh sliced basil leaves. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for extra flavor. Enjoy the pizza while hot.

Notes

  • Use warm water (about 105°F) to activate the yeast but avoid water that’s too hot to prevent killing the yeast.
  • Adjust flour quantity slightly during kneading to get a dough that is tacky but not overly sticky.
  • Allowing the dough to rise for at least 2 hours develops flavor and texture in the crust.
  • If you do not have fresh mozzarella, you may substitute with high-quality low-moisture mozzarella, though the pizza will have a different texture.
  • Adding balsamic glaze enhances flavor but is optional.
  • For a crispier crust, preheat the baking sheet in the oven before placing the dough on it.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Pizza
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/easy-margherita-pizza-recipe/