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#Pizza Margherita

#Pizza Margherita

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Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian

Equipment

  • Equipment Needed: Mixing bowl, baking sheet or pizza stone, rolling pin, oven

Ingredients
  

  • For the Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm water about 110°F or 43°C
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • For the Toppings:
  • 1 cup canned whole tomatoes San Marzano tomatoes are preferred
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for drizzling
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Dough
  • Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  • Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
  • Knead the Dough: Stir until the dough begins to come together, then transfer it to a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
  • Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 10 minutes.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
  • Crush the Tomatoes: While the dough is rising, drain the canned tomatoes and crush them with your hands or a fork. You want them chunky but not too watery.
  • Season the Sauce: Add salt and pepper to taste.
  • Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the highest setting (usually around 475°F to 500°F or 245°C to 260°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
  • Shape the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness (around 1/4 inch for a thin crust).
  • Transfer the Dough: Place the rolled-out dough onto a baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone.
  • Add the Sauce: Spread a thin layer of the crushed tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
  • Add Cheese and Basil: Arrange the mozzarella slices evenly over the sauce and scatter fresh basil leaves on top.
  • Drizzle with Olive Oil: Finish by drizzling olive oil over the pizza.
  • Step 4: Bake the Pizza
  • Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  • Cool and Slice: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice and serve hot!
  • Variations and Tips
  • Whole Wheat Dough: For a healthier option, replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Topping Variations: Feel free to add toppings like sliced olives, mushrooms, or arugula for extra flavor.
  • Cheese Alternatives: For a lighter option, try part-skim mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese substitute.