Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (180ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup tomato passata or crushed tomatoes
• 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
2. Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 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 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

2. Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can reach (usually around 500°F/260°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.

3. Prepare the Pizza:

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions.
2. On a floured surface, roll out each portion of dough into a round shape, about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) in diameter.
3. Place the rolled-out dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a pizza stone.

4. Assemble the Pizza:

1. Spread half of the tomato passata or crushed tomatoes evenly over the surface of each pizza dough.
2. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place fresh basil leaves on the pizza.

5. Bake the Pizza:

1. If using a baking sheet, transfer the pizza (on the parchment paper) into the preheated oven. If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza onto the hot stone in the oven.
2. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
3. Remove the pizza from the oven and drizzle with a little olive oil before serving.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

1. Slice the pizza and serve hot. Enjoy the classic flavors of the Margherita pizza!