Classic Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil cooking methods

 Classic Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil

How to Make Classic Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil

A classic Margherita pizza is a timeless favorite that brings together the perfect harmony of flavors with simple ingredients: fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a crispy, thin crust. To make this iconic Italian dish at home, start with high-quality ingredients for the best results.

First, prepare the pizza dough. Combine flour, yeast, water, salt, and olive oil to form a dough, kneading it until smooth. Let it rise until doubled in size, then divide and roll it out thinly to your desired pizza shape. Preheat your oven to its highest setting, or ideally, use a pizza stone for a crispier base.

Next, create a simple tomato sauce by blending canned San Marzano tomatoes with a pinch of salt. Spread a thin layer of the sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Top with fresh mozzarella slices and bake the pizza for 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts and the crust is golden.

Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and immediately garnish with fresh basil leaves. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a light sprinkle of sea salt complete the dish. Serve hot and enjoy the authentic taste of Italy at home!