Description
A classic Margherita pizza with a light, chewy crust, bright tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. Simple ingredients come together to make a timeless, flavorful favorite.
Ingredients
2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup crushed San Marzano tomatoes (or good-quality canned tomatoes)
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn
Fresh basil leaves
Salt, to taste
Optional: freshly ground black pepper, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle.
- Spread crushed tomatoes over the dough, leaving a border. Add mozzarella, drizzle olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
- Using a pizza peel or tray, slide the pizza onto the hot stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from oven, top with fresh basil, and drizzle with olive oil. Slice and serve hot.
Notes
Drain mozzarella well to prevent soggy crust.
Use a hot oven and preheated stone or tray for best crust texture.
Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight.
Reheat leftovers in a skillet or toaster oven for a crisp crust.
Personalize with red pepper flakes, garlic oil, or Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1–1.5 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 pizza
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
