An authentic Margherita pizza recipe from Italy is all about simplicity and using fresh ingredients – this foundation recipe uses only all-purpose flour, salt, yeast, sugar, water, crushed tomatoes, garlic, red pepper flakes, fresh mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, and extra-virgin olive oil. The dough is made by mixing the dry ingredients, adding water and kneading. The sauce is prepared by simmering the tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Then, the dough is flattened, sauce is spread, topped with cheese and baked for 10-12 minutes. Once out of the oven, garnish with basil leaves and enjoy your homemade, authentic Margherita pizza.

Authentic Margherita Pizza Recipe Straight From Italy

Introduction

Pizza is undoubtedly one of the most popular dishes worldwide, but nothing compares to an authentic Margherita pizza recipe straight from Italy. This recipe is the foundation of all pizza recipes, and it’s all about the simplicity of ingredients that make a delicious pizza.

Ingredients

To make an authentic Margherita pizza recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 3/4 cup lukewarm water
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
• Extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, yeast, and sugar.
2. Slowly add in the lukewarm water and mix until a ball of dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes.
3. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least an hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C). Place a pizza stone in the oven to preheat.
5. In a small saucepan, simmer the crushed tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes for 10 minutes.
6. Knead the dough once again and flatten it out onto a floured surface. Stretch and shape the dough until it’s about 12-14 inches in diameter.
7. Spread the tomato sauce on the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Place slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on top and add a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.
8. Using a pizza peel, carefully place the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone. Bake the pizza for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
9. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top and slice the pizza into wedges.
10. Enjoy your authentic Margherita pizza recipe straight from Italy!

Conclusion

Making an authentic Margherita pizza recipe straight from Italy may be a challenge, but it’s worth the effort. This recipe is simple, using only fresh ingredients and a few steps, resulting in a delicious pizza that will wow your taste buds. So grab your apron, head to the kitchen, and start cooking your perfect Margherita pizza!