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Margherita pizza

margherita pizza

Margherita pizza: homemade crust, juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Experience the true taste of Italy at your table.
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Total Time 1 hour 1 minute
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 275
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 2.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup warm water
Topping
  • 0.75 cup tomato sauce preferably homemade or passata
  • 200 gram fresh mozzarella cheese sliced
  • 2 unit tomatoes medium size, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 leaf fresh basil
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 pinch black pepper

Method
 

Dough Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
  2. Add warm water and olive oil, then mix everything until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Topping and Assembly
  1. Preheat your oven to 250°C (480°F) or as hot as it will go.
  2. Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a thin pizza base.
  3. Place the dough on a pizza stone or baking tray. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the surface, leaving a border for the crust.
  4. Arrange mozzarella slices and tomato slices on top of the sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Baking and Finishing
  1. Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  2. Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
  3. Slice and serve your homemade Margherita pizza while hot!

Notes

Margherita pizza is a timeless classic loved for its simplicity, vibrant flavors, and versatility. It’s ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, and you can personalize it with a few creative twists. The combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil captures the essence of Italian cuisine, making it a perfect introduction to homemade pizza.

Practical tips for best results

  • High heat is your friend: Bake your pizza at the highest temperature your oven allows. This creates a crispy, airy crust similar to those from wood-fired pizzerias.
  • Quality matters: Use fresh mozzarella and ripe, firm tomatoes for the best result. If you can, opt for San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce to bring out a sweeter and richer flavor.
  • Prevent a soggy center: Pat tomato slices dry before placing them on the dough, and avoid over-saucing. Too much moisture can weigh down the crust.
  • No pizza stone? Preheat an inverted baking sheet in the oven. Sliding the pizza onto this hot surface gives a beautiful, crisp base.

Substitutions and variations

  • Gluten-free option: Swap the regular flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend suited for baking.
  • Herb twist: Add a sprinkle of dried oregano or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil before baking for extra aromatic notes.
  • Cheese lovers: Combine mozzarella with a touch of provolone or parmesan for a richer, more complex flavor profile.

Serving and pairing ideas

  • Drizzle your Margherita pizza with extra virgin olive oil and a few more fresh basil leaves right before serving for a more intense aroma.
  • Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or with roasted vegetables for a fuller meal experience.
  • Pair with a light Italian white wine or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing combination.
Making Margherita pizza at home is not just about the flavor—it’s about enjoying the process. Get creative, make it your own, and savor each bite!