Pizza Margherita Recipe
Bring the authentic taste of Italy to your kitchen with this classic Pizza Margherita Recipe! Made from wholesome whole wheat flour and topped with fresh basil, melted mozzarella, and a delicious homemade pizza sauce, this recipe is a perfect choice for a cozy dinner. Let’s dive into the process of creating this delectable dish that pairs beautifully with other Italian favorites.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 2 cups |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Active Dry Yeast | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Oregano | 2 teaspoons |
| Mozzarella Cheese (grated) | As required |
| Homemade Pizza and Pasta Sauce | As required |
| Italian Seasoning | As required |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | A handful |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250-300 |
| Protein | ~12g |
| Carbohydrates | ~40g |
| Fats | ~8g |
| Fiber | ~6g |
| Sodium | ~400mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on exact quantities used.
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 180 minutes |
| Total Time | 190 minutes |
Servings
- This recipe yields 2 servings.
Cuisine and Course
- Cuisine: Italian Recipes
- Course: Dinner
- Diet: Vegetarian
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- Begin by warming 1/2 cup of water until it’s lukewarm (not hot). Pour it into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the sugar to the water and stir until dissolved.
- Sprinkle the active dry yeast into the bowl, mix gently, and cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture turns frothy. This step ensures the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- To the activated yeast mixture, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, oregano, a pinch of salt, and the whole wheat flour.
- Gradually add water and mix everything until a dough starts to form.
- Transfer the dough to a clean countertop and knead it for 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial to achieve a soft and elastic dough.
- Lightly oil the dough and place it in a large bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and set it aside in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- After proofing, the dough should double in size. Punch it down gently to release the air. If the dough is sticky, grease your hands or dust the dough with flour.
Step 3: Shape the Pizza Base
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
- Divide the dough into two equal parts (or more, depending on the size of pizzas you want).
- Lightly dust one portion with flour and use your fingers to pat it down into a base about 9-10 mm thick. Shape it into a circle, square, or rectangle as per your preference.
- Transfer the shaped base to a cookie tray, silicone mat, or pizza pan.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
- Spread a generous layer of homemade pizza sauce over the pizza base, leaving a 1 cm border around the edges.
- Top it with grated mozzarella cheese. Feel free to add as much or as little cheese as you prefer.
- Tear fresh basil leaves into pieces and scatter them over the cheese. Sprinkle Italian seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
- Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the cheese melts beautifully.
- Keep an eye on the pizza to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing.
- Serve this Pizza Margherita with Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta, Herb Mushroom Bruschetta, and a classic Tiramisu for a complete Italian-themed dinner.
Cooking Tips
- Make it crispier: For a crispier crust, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone.
- Customize the toppings: Add other toppings like roasted veggies or olives if you wish to personalize your pizza.
- Leftover dough: The leftover dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before using.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Option: Made with whole wheat flour, this pizza is a wholesome twist on the traditional recipe.
- Quick and Easy: The dough preparation and proofing are straightforward, and the final assembly takes minutes.
- Authentic Taste: Fresh ingredients like basil, homemade sauce, and good-quality mozzarella elevate this pizza to restaurant-quality.
Bring Italy to your table tonight with this mouthwatering Pizza Margherita recipe. It’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for a cozy night in. Buon appetito!
