By Yummy Easy Kitchen
There’s nothing quite like the taste of a classic Margherita pizza. With its crisp yet chewy crust, tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, this authentic Italian recipe brings a taste of Naples right to your kitchen. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a weekend family meal.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 1 cup canned San Marzano tomatoes (blended)
- 250g fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the yeast: Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it rest until foamy (10 minutes).
- Knead the dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead until smooth and elastic (8–10 minutes).
- First rise: Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Shape the pizza: Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Spread dough into two medium circles.
- Top it: Spread tomato sauce, arrange mozzarella slices, and add fresh basil.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and bubbling. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.
Nutrition (per slice)
| Calories | 280 |
|---|---|
| Carbs | 32 g |
| Protein | 11 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
Cooking Tips
- Use a pizza stone or baking steel for a crispier crust.
- Let the dough ferment overnight in the fridge for extra flavor.
- Don’t overload toppings — simplicity is key for Margherita.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold dough (always let it rest at room temperature before baking).
- Adding too much cheese, which can make the crust soggy.
- Baking at a low temperature — pizza needs high heat for a perfect crust.
Substitutions
- Swap San Marzano tomatoes with any high-quality canned tomatoes.
- Use vegan mozzarella if you prefer a dairy-free version.
- Whole-wheat flour can be used for a healthier crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Pair it with a simple arugula salad and a glass of Italian red wine for an authentic dining experience.
