Margherita pizza is the epitome of Italian simplicity and elegance. With its thin crust, vibrant tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this classic pizza highlights the beauty of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here's how to make a perfect Margherita pizza at home.
Ingredients
For the Dough (Makes 2 pizzas):
All-purpose flour: 2 ¾ cups
Active dry yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet)
Sugar: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Warm water: ¾ cup (110°F or 45°C)
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
For the Sauce:
Canned San Marzano tomatoes: 1 can (14 ounces)
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
Garlic: 1 clove, minced
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Fresh basil leaves: 2-3
For the Toppings:
Fresh mozzarella: 8-10 ounces, sliced into rounds
Fresh basil leaves: 8-10
Olive oil: For drizzling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a blender or food processor, puree the canned tomatoes until smooth. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the pureed tomatoes, add salt, and stir in fresh basil leaves. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to its highest setting (typically 475°F-500°F or 245°C-260°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Punch down the dough and divide it into two portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface into a thin circle, about 10-12 inches in diameter.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
Place the rolled-out dough on a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Arrange the fresh mozzarella slices evenly on top.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 7: Add Basil and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately place fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle with olive oil and let it rest for a minute before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Perfect Margherita Pizza
Use High-Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of Margherita pizza means that the quality of ingredients—like fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes—is key to its flavor.
Don’t Overload the Pizza: Keep the toppings light to allow the flavors to shine and to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
Bake at High Heat: A hot oven mimics the effect of a traditional wood-fired pizza oven, ensuring a crispy crust.
Common Questions
What Makes Margherita Pizza Unique?
Margherita pizza uses minimal ingredients and focuses on the harmonious combination of fresh flavors—tomato, mozzarella, and basil—representing the colors of the Italian flag.
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough or Sauce?
Absolutely! If you're short on time, store-bought dough and sauce work well, but homemade versions elevate the flavor.
How Do I Make It Vegan?
Substitute fresh mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative and ensure the dough and sauce are dairy-free.
Margherita pizza is a celebration of simplicity and fresh ingredients. Whether you're hosting a pizza night or craving an authentic Italian dish, this recipe will transport you to the heart of Naples. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the delicious aroma and taste of homemade Margherita pizza!