ADVERTISEMENT
### 👨🍳 Instructions:
#### 1. **Make the Dough:**
– In a bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
– Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to a large mixing bowl. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
– Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic.
– Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
#### 2. **Prepare the Sauce:**
– In a small bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes with a bit of olive oil and a pinch of salt. That’s it—no need to cook it! The sauce cooks directly on the pizza in the oven, staying fresh and vibrant.
#### 3. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to **475°F (245°C)** or higher if your oven allows. If you have a **pizza stone**, place it inside while preheating for an extra crispy crust.
#### 4. **Assemble the Pizza:**
– Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions.
– Roll out one dough ball on a floured surface into a 10–12 inch round.
– Place it on a baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a stone.
– Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce over the base.
– Add the **mozzarella** evenly on top.
– Tear or place a few **fresh basil leaves** over the cheese (some prefer to add basil after baking to keep it bright—either works!).
– Drizzle with a bit of **olive oil**.
#### 5. **Bake the Pizza:**
– Bake for 8–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
– If using a pizza stone, transfer the pizza carefully for that delicious pizzeria-style bottom crust.
#### 6. **Finish and Serve:**
– Remove from the oven, add a few more fresh basil leaves if desired, and let it rest for a minute before slicing.
– Serve hot and enjoy the fresh, classic flavors of Italy!
—
### 🧀 Why You’ll Love Margherita Pizza:
– **Simple Ingredients** – Only a few high-quality ingredients are needed to create authentic Italian flavor.
– **Fast and Fresh** – Once the dough is ready, it takes just minutes to assemble and bake.
– **Kid and Adult-Friendly** – It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
– **Customizable** – While traditional Margherita is perfect as is, you can add toppings like cherry tomatoes, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if you like a twist.
—
### 🍷 Perfect Pairings:
– **Drink:** A glass of Chianti, Pinot Grigio, or sparkling water with lemon
– **Side:** A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted garlic bruschetta
—
### 🇮🇹 Final Thoughts:
Making **Margherita pizza at home** is easier than you think—and incredibly rewarding. It’s a beautiful, rustic dish that brings the heart of Italy to your dinner table. With its perfect balance of crispy crust, tangy tomato, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this pizza proves that sometimes, less truly is more.
So next pizza night, skip the takeout and make it from scratch. **Napoletana spirit, right in your kitchen!**
Buon appetito! 🍕🇮🇹
ADVERTISEMENT
