Authentic Pizza Margherita Recipe

Pizza Margherita is a timeless Italian classic that embodies simplicity and flavor. With its thin, crispy crust, vibrant tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, it's a dish that delights the senses. Follow this step-by-step guide to create an authentic Pizza Margherita in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 3 1/2 cups (450g) all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the tomato sauce:

• 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt to taste

• Fresh basil leaves

For the toppings:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh mozzarella, sliced

• Fresh basil leaves

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.

4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

5. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Crush the canned tomatoes with your hands or a fork in a bowl.

2. Cook the Garlic: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes to the saucepan. Season with salt and add a few fresh basil leaves. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

4. Cool the Sauce: Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually 500°F or 260°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

2. Prepare the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 2 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and let them rest for 10 minutes.

3. Shape the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a thin circle, about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a pizza stone.

4. Add the Sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.

5. Add the Cheese: Arrange the sliced mozzarella evenly over the sauce.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (onto the pizza stone if using) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

2. Add Fresh Basil: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice and Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Enjoy the perfect balance of crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil.

Tips for the Perfect Pizza Margherita

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make all the difference in flavor.

• Hot Oven: Baking the pizza in a very hot oven ensures a crispy crust.

• Don’t Overload with Sauce: Use just enough sauce to cover the dough lightly; too much can make the pizza soggy.

• Fresh Basil: Add fresh basil after baking to maintain its vibrant flavor and color.

With this detailed step-by-step guide, you can create an authentic Pizza Margherita that brings the taste of Italy into your home. Enjoy the process of making this classic dish, and savor every delicious bite!