Margherita Pizza

 Here's a detailed recipe for making a classic Margherita Pizza:

                                                               

 Ingredients:

 For the Dough:

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)

 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons olive oil

 2 teaspoons salt

 1 teaspoon sugar

 For the Topping:

 1 cup crushed tomatoes (San Marzano tomatoes preferred)

1-2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

 Fresh basil leaves

 Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

    In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.

    Mix until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

    Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

    In a medium bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes with minced garlic and olive oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

    Mix well and set aside.

3. Preheat the Oven:

    Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) or the highest temperature it will go. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

4. Shape the Dough:

    Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions.

    On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into a 12-inch circle (or your desired thickness). If the dough is too elastic, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing.

5. Assemble the Pizza:

    Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

   Spread a thin layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

    Arrange the slices of fresh mozzarella evenly over the sauce.

    Add a few fresh basil leaves on top.

6. Bake the Pizza:

    If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone. If using a baking sheet, place the sheet directly in the oven.

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

7. Finish and Serve:

    Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

    Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil and add a few more fresh basil leaves before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Margherita Pizza!

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