How to Make Perfect Pizza Margherita

Pizza Margherita is one of the most popular pizza styles globally, combining simplicity and flavor. It consists of a fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and extra virgin olive oil. This classic Italian dish can be enjoyed as a main course or served as an appetizer. Today, we'll guide you through making this delicious pizza right at home with step-by-step instructions for cooking time, preparation steps, and the number of servings it provides.

Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes total (10 minutes for baking). Servings: This recipe yields four generous slices per pizza.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet of active dry yeast (about 1/4 teaspoon)
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 jar of your favorite pizza sauce or home-made tomato sauce
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced thinly and fresh
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
• Olive oil for brushing the dough (not included in measurements)

Instructions

1. Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, combine 1 3/4 cups of flour and salt. Set aside. In a small bowl, mix warm water with sugar until the sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Add yeast to the water mixture in the small bowl, stir gently, then let it sit for about five minutes until foam forms. This indicates that your yeast is still active. Gradually add this mixture along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the flour mixture and mix well until a soft dough begins to form.
3. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough gently but thoroughly for around ten minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If necessary, add more flour while kneading to avoid stickiness.
4. Cover the dough with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour until doubled in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, divide it into four equal parts and roll each part out flat on your countertop. Keep one part at a time under a clean cloth while rolling another to prevent them from drying out.

Toppings Preparation: While waiting for your pizza dough to rise again, prepare your sauce by heating up the jarred or homemade tomato sauce in a small pan. Allow it to simmer until it reaches the desired consistency and intensity of flavor. Slice the mozzarella cheese into thin pieces.

6. Baking the Pizza: Preheat your oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit (245 Celsius). Lightly brush a pizza pan or baking sheet with olive oil. Carefully stretch one piece of dough onto this prepared surface, forming it into an even circle shape. Spread sauce evenly over the entire surface of the dough leaving about half an inch border around all edges.
7. Top your pizza with mozzarella slices and a few fresh basil leaves if desired. Place the assembled pizzas in preheated oven. Bake until golden brown spots appear on top of the crust, approximately 12-15 minutes.
8. Remove from oven when done and let cool slightly before serving immediately while hot. Serve warm with additional grated Parmesan cheese or extra virgin olive oil if preferred.

Serving Suggestions: This traditional Italian dish pairs wonderfully well with a crisp salad, garlic breadsticks, and cold beverages like lemonade, iced tea, or even a glass of red wine. Enjoy your homemade pizza Margherita!

Nutritional Information Per Serving

The exact nutritional values may vary depending on the ingredients used but here's an approximate estimate based on our recipe:

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 630mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 59g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 16g

This recipe allows for customization. Feel free to experiment by adding different types of cheeses, other vegetables like onions or bell peppers, or even a drizzle of balsamic vinegar on top during baking for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Pizza Margherita is more than just another pizza; it's an iconic representation of Italian cuisine. With its simplicity and versatility, this dish remains a favorite among many. Follow the steps outlined above to create your own exquisite version in the comfort of your kitchen. Whether you're looking for something light for lunch or a hearty dinner option, Pizza Margherita is sure to satisfy every taste bud.