Description
Experience the classic flavors of Italy with this Authentic Margherita Pizza recipe, featuring a thin, crispy crust topped with fresh San Marzano tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal that serves four.
Ingredients
Scale
Pizza Dough
- 1 batch pizza dough
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) San Marzano tomatoes
- Salt to taste
Toppings
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone inside if available to ensure a crispy crust.
- Prepare the tomato sauce: Crush the canned San Marzano tomatoes in a bowl and season with salt to taste for a fresh, flavorful base.
- Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to about 12 inches in diameter to form the pizza base.
- Assemble the pizza: Spread an even layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the dough, then tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute evenly on top.
- Bake: Bake the pizza on the hot stone or baking tray for 10-12 minutes until the crust turns golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, then slice and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, let the pizza stone heat thoroughly before baking.
- You can substitute fresh mozzarella with low-moisture mozzarella if desired.
- Adjust salt quantity in the sauce to taste, especially if using salted dough.
- To make dough from scratch, allow adequate rising time as per your dough recipe.
- Use fresh basil added after baking to preserve its flavor and color.
