Margherita Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella is a culinary masterpiece that exemplifies the beauty of simplicity in classic Italian cuisine. Originating from Naples, this pizza is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients, and it's celebrated for its vibrant flavors and striking colors that represent the Italian flag—red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil.
Ingredients
Scale:
2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 can (14 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
8 ounces best fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Fresh basil leaves (about 10-15 leaves)
Additional olive oil for drizzling
Salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare the dough: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour and salt together thoroughly. Make a well in the center, pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, then stir until combined.
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when poked.
Let the dough rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Make the sauce: In a blender, blend the whole peeled tomatoes until smooth. Heat olive oil in a saucepan, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Add the blended tomatoes, salt, pepper, and oregano. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Preheat the oven: Preheat a wood-fired pizza oven to about 800°F or a conventional oven to 475°F. Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat up.
Shape the pizza: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Divide into two equal portions and roll out each into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
Assemble the pizza: Spread a thin layer of the homemade pizza sauce over the dough, layer with mozzarella, sprinkle with salt, and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake the pizza: Transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Add fresh basil: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
Slice and serve: Allow the pizza to cool for a minute, then slice into wedges and serve hot.
