![To make a delicious Margherita pizza, you need the following items: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon active dry yeast - ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F) - 1 teaspoon sugar - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 tablespoon olive oil These ingredients create a perfect dough. The flour gives it structure, while the yeast helps it rise. The sugar feeds the yeast, and the salt adds flavor. For the toppings, gather these simple ingredients: - 1 cup canned San Marzano tomatoes, crushed - 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced - Fresh basil leaves (about 8-10 leaves) - Salt and pepper to taste - Extra olive oil for drizzling San Marzano tomatoes are sweeter and richer in taste. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, and basil adds a fragrant touch. The salt and pepper boost the flavors, while olive oil gives a nice finish. This combination makes the pizza flavorful and fresh, just like you would find in Italy. For the full recipe, check out the details above. - Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it foam for about 5-10 minutes. - Mix flour and salt in a bowl. Create a well in the center, then add the yeast mixture. - Knead the dough on a floured surface until it's smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. - Shape the dough into a ball. Place it in an oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. - Preheat your oven to its highest setting, usually between 475°F and 500°F. - Prepare the sauce using crushed San Marzano tomatoes. Season it with salt and pepper. - After the dough rises, punch it down. Shape it into a 12-inch round. - Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread the sauce thinly over the dough. - Evenly place slices of fresh mozzarella on top of the sauce. Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the cheese. - Bake the pizza in the oven for about 10-12 minutes. Look for a golden crust and bubbling cheese. Use the Full Recipe for detailed steps and measurements to create this classic dish! To make great dough, you want it elastic but not sticky. When you knead, aim for about eight to ten minutes. This builds the right texture. If the dough feels too wet, add a bit more flour. If it’s too dry, a splash of water helps. The goal is a smooth and stretchy dough. For the sauce, use high-quality San Marzano tomatoes. They make a big difference in taste. Crush them gently, and add salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Be careful not to overload your pizza with toppings. Less is more for a perfect bake. This lets the dough rise and crisp up nicely. A pizza stone is a fantastic tool for a crispier crust. Preheat it in the oven to get it really hot. If you don’t have one, a baking sheet works too. Just keep an eye on your pizza while it bakes. You might need to adjust the baking time based on your oven and your taste. Aim for a golden crust and bubbling cheese for the best results. Using these tips will help you craft a classic Margherita pizza that impresses. For the full recipe, check out our detailed instructions and ingredient list. {{image_2}} You can make your Margherita pizza even better by trying different cheeses. Burrata adds a creamy texture that melts beautifully. Smoked mozzarella brings a rich, savory flavor. Both options will change the taste while keeping it classic. Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings. Arugula adds a peppery bite that pairs well with the cheese. Prosciutto gives a salty, savory kick. A drizzle of truffle oil can elevate the dish with its earthy aroma. These changes can delight your taste buds while keeping the pizza true to its roots. If you want to mix things up, consider using different sauces. Pesto offers a fresh, herbal twist that complements the cheese. White sauce can add a creamy richness that contrasts nicely with the crust. These variations keep the spirit of Margherita while letting you explore new flavors. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe] section! Store your leftover pizza in the refrigerator. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will stay good for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy your pizza a bit longer. Want to save pizza for later? You can freeze unbaked pizza for easy meals. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This keeps the flavors intact for future enjoyment. To reheat your pizza, the oven is the best choice. Set it to 375°F and bake for about 10 minutes. This method keeps the crust crispy and the cheese melty. If you're in a hurry, use a skillet. Heat it on medium-low for quicker results. Just cover it with a lid to warm the toppings evenly. Margherita pizza comes from Naples, Italy. It was created in 1889 for Queen Margherita of Savoy. The colors of the pizza match the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. This dish is simple but full of flavor. It shows how good food can be made from just a few fresh ingredients. To make gluten-free Margherita pizza, use gluten-free flour. You can mix it with xanthan gum for better texture. Here’s a simple list of gluten-free ingredients: - 2 cups gluten-free flour - 1 teaspoon active dry yeast - ¾ cup warm water - 1 teaspoon sugar - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 tablespoon olive oil Follow the same steps as the regular recipe, and you’ll have a tasty gluten-free pizza. Yes, you can make Margherita pizza without a pizza stone. You can use a baking sheet instead. Just preheat the baking sheet in the oven. It helps to create a nice crust. Place the assembled pizza on the hot sheet and bake as directed. You may also use a cast-iron skillet for a crispy base. An authentic Margherita pizza has key elements. It uses San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. The dough must be hand-stretched and thin. The pizza should be baked at a high temperature for a short time. This method creates a soft inside and crisp outside. This recipe yields 2 to 4 servings. It depends on how big you slice the pizza. If you want more, just double the ingredients. You can also make smaller pizzas for a fun meal with friends or family. The number 19 is special because it refers to the recipe's order in this article. Each recipe is numbered for easy reference. In this case, Margherita pizza is recipe number 19. It highlights the importance of classic dishes in my collection. Classic Margherita pizza combines simple ingredients for a delightful dish. You learned the essential components, from fresh basil to San Marzano tomatoes. Following clear steps, you can create perfect dough and rich toppings. Remember to use quality ingredients for the best taste. Feel free to experiment with variations and storage tips. Making this pizza at home is rewarding and fun. Enjoy the process, and savor the delicious results every time.](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/379b831d-c22e-427f-bef4-29b7c3a1d548-300x300.webp)
19. Classic Margherita Pizza
Indulge in the delightful experience of making a Classic Margherita Pizza right at home! With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a tasty and authentic pizza that captures the essence of Italy. From the homemade dough to the fresh mozzarella and basil, this recipe is perfect for pizza lovers.