Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe

Pizza, the beloved Italian creation, transcends borders with its simple yet irresistible combination of flavors. Among its iconic varieties, the Margherita Pizza stands as a timeless classic, boasting the vibrant colors of the Italian flag and the authentic taste of Naples. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to create this delectable masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

1 pizza dough ball (homemade or store-bought)
1/2 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
2-3 ripe plum tomatoes, thinly sliced
Fresh basil leaves, torn
Extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cornmeal or flour (for dusting)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible, usually around 475-500°F (245-260°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to preheat as well.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a circle, approximately 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a piece of parchment paper sprinkled with cornmeal or flour to prevent sticking.
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the prepared pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Arrange the slices of fresh mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Top the cheese with the thinly sliced plum tomatoes, distributing them evenly across the pizza.
Carefully transfer the assembled pizza (on the parchment paper) to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake the pizza for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately sprinkle the torn fresh basil leaves over the hot pizza. The residual heat will gently wilt the basil leaves, infusing the pizza with their aromatic flavor.
Drizzle a small amount of extra-virgin olive oil over the finished pizza for an added touch of richness and flavor. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice the Margherita Pizza into wedges. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious simplicity of this classic Italian dish.

Indulge in the time-honored tradition of savoring a slice of Margherita Pizza, where the vibrant colors and flavors of Italy come together in perfect harmony. Buon Appetito!

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