Traditional Italian Pizza
Experience the taste of Italy with this traditional Neapolitan pizza recipe, featuring a classic Margherita topping and a perfectly chewy crust.
Equipment
- 1 Pizza stone preheated
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
- 1 Rolling Pin
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
Toppings
- 1 cup San Marzano tomato sauce
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Dissolve yeast in warm water and add to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Return to the bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let rise for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
Assembling the Pizza
- Preheat the pizza stone in the oven at 475°F. Divide the dough into two parts and roll each into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.
- Spread 1/2 cup of tomato sauce over each dough circle, leaving a small border. Place slices of mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
Baking
- Transfer one pizza onto the preheated stone and bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling. Rotate halfway through for even cooking.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and scatter fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle with olive oil and let cool slightly before slicing.
Serving
- Slice the pizza into 8 pieces and serve warm. Pair with a fresh salad or antipasti for a complete meal.
Storage
- Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Notes
Pro Tips: For a crispier crust, use a pizza stone and preheat it thoroughly.
Ingredient Substitutions: Swap fresh mozzarella with buffalo mozzarella for a richer flavor.
How to Serve: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container and consume within 3 days for best results.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator.
Ingredient Substitutions: Swap fresh mozzarella with buffalo mozzarella for a richer flavor.
How to Serve: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container and consume within 3 days for best results.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator.