Pizza Margherita

By Culiora

Pizza margherita with mozzarella, tomato and basil

A classic Italian pizza, simple yet perfect, featuring a thin crust topped with vibrant tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil. It embodies the essence of Italian culinary tradition.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to its highest setting (220-250°C / 425-475°F) with a pizza stone or baking steel inside for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Stretch or roll out the pizza dough into a circular shape, about 10-12 inches in diameter. If using store-bought dough, follow package instructions.
  3. Spread crushed tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Season with a pinch of salt.
  4. Tear fresh mozzarella into small pieces and distribute them over the tomato sauce.
  5. Carefully transfer the pizza to the hot pizza stone or baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 8-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and puffy, and the cheese is melted and bubbling with some charred spots. Cooking time will vary depending on your oven and pizza stone/steel.
  7. Remove from oven, drizzle with a little olive oil, and scatter fresh basil leaves over the top. Slice and serve immediately.