Delicious Homemade Pizza Margherita

Looking for a simple yet delicious pizza recipe that you can make at home? Look no further than the classic Pizza Margherita. This traditional Italian dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. If you’re planning a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe is perfect for you.

The Pizza Margherita consists of just a few simple ingredients: flour, water, yeast, salt, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The key to making the perfect crust lies in the quality of the dough ingredients; always make sure they are fresh.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 1 packet (0.25 oz) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tsp salt
• 3-4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced or shredded
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnishing
• Extra virgin olive oil, as needed

Instructions

To make the dough:

1. In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of warm water with sugar and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour and salt into the mixture gradually, kneading well until smooth.
3. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for around an hour or until doubled in size.

To prepare the pizza:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Dust your working surface with flour. Take out the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions for two large pizzas or four smaller ones.
3. Evenly spread fresh mozzarella cheese slices or shredded cheese over each base and cover with a few basil leaves.
4. Drench your pizzas generously with extra virgin olive oil, ensuring that every inch of the dough is well coated. This step adds not only flavor but also keeps the crust crispier after baking.

Baking:

1. Place both pizzas into the hot oven and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes or until the bottom of each slice turns golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, especially if you're using a stone instead of a pan.
2. Once done, take out your freshly baked pies from the oven. Allow them to cool down slightly before slicing and serving.

The total cooking time for this recipe is about 20 minutes. Each pizza serves approximately 4 people; hence you should expect 8 servings in total if preparing two pizzas. If you're making four smaller ones, that would be around 16 servings altogether.

Tips & Variations:

• If you want a more flavorful dough, consider adding a pinch of sugar and some salt during the rising process to enhance the yeast's fermentation process.
• For those who love spicy foods, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over your pizza just before putting it into the oven for an extra kick. It pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the fresh basil.
• You can also add other toppings like roasted vegetables (bell peppers, mushrooms), prosciutto, or even arugula to create a more complex flavor profile suitable for different tastes and dietary needs.

Pizza Margherita is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time. Whether you're having it as a quick dinner after work or preparing it during family gatherings, this pizza will always impress with its simplicity and authenticity. The combination of savory cheese, tangy tomatoes (if using canned), and fresh basil provides a perfect balance of flavors. Serve it warm alongside your favorite drinks for an unforgettable meal.

Remember, while the basic recipe stays true to tradition, feel free to experiment based on personal taste preferences or dietary requirements. Whether you're a beginner cook trying out new recipes or a seasoned chef looking for simple yet impressive dishes, Pizza Margherita remains one of those classic foods that never go out of style.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Pizza Margherita! It's a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, from kids to adults. The simplicity and versatility make it an ideal choice for any occasion.