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To make a great homemade Margherita pizza, you need a few key ingredients. The base starts with high-quality flour, which helps create the perfect crust. You also need instant yeast, salt, warm water, and olive oil for the dough.

Homemade Margherita Pizza

Get ready to create the best homemade Margherita pizza that will transport you to Italy right from your kitchen! This flavorful and easy recipe showcases the magic of fresh mozzarella, crispy crust, and fragrant basil. Discover essential tips on making the perfect dough, crafting your own sauce, and assembling a pie that’s sure to impress. Click through for step-by-step guidance and elevate your pizza game today!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon instant yeast

1 teaspoon salt

¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 ½ cups fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Fresh basil leaves

Salt and pepper to taste

Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

    Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

      First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

        Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to its highest setting (around 475°F - 500°F) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.

          Shape the Pizza: Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it back to a floured surface. Roll it out with a rolling pin into a 12-inch circle, about ¼ inch thick.

            Add the Sauce: Transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper (this will make it easier to place in the oven later). Spread pizza sauce evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.

              Add Cheese: Evenly distribute the fresh mozzarella slices over the sauce and season lightly with salt and pepper.

                Bake the Pizza: Carefully slide the pizza (with the parchment) onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

                  Finish with Basil: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately scatter fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil.

                    Slice and Serve: Allow to cool for a minute, slice into wedges and serve hot.

                      Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins | Servings: 4

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the pizza on a wooden board and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt. Enjoy with a side salad for a complete meal!