Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Pizza Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pizza Toppings:

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Making the Pizza Dough:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough starts to come together.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball.

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 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Assembling and Baking the Pizza:

5. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can go, usually around 500-550°F (260-290°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating.

6. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. If you're using a pizza stone, transfer the rolled-out dough to a piece of parchment paper that will fit the stone.

7. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

8. Arrange the fresh mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.

9. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.

10. Carefully slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto your preheated pizza stone (or a baking sheet).

11. Bake the pizza for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

12. Remove the pizza from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil.

13. Slice and serve your homemade Margherita pizza while it's hot and enjoy the classic flavors!

This classic Margherita pizza combines the simple yet incredible flavors of fresh ingredients and a perfectly baked crust. It's a timeless favorite for pizza lovers.