The most delicious Arabic food

How to Make Traditional Italian Pizza: A Step-by-Step Guide

Italian pizza is famous worldwide for its thin, crispy crust, fresh ingredients, and simple yet bold flavors. Whether you prefer a classic Margherita, a rich Marinara, or a hearty Quattro Formaggi, mastering the traditional Italian pizza starts with the perfect dough and high-quality toppings.

Follow this authentic Italian pizza recipe to bring the flavors of Italy into your kitchen!

---

Ingredients

For the Dough (Makes 2 Medium Pizzas):

• 3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose or 00 flour (high-protein flour for best texture)
• 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dry yeast (or 3g fresh yeast)

For the Classic Pizza Sauce:

• 1 cup canned San Marzano tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 3-4 fresh basil leaves

For the Toppings (Margherita Style):

• 200g fresh mozzarella (preferably Fior di Latte or Buffalo Mozzarella)
• Fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pizza Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
4. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

---

2. Prepare the Pizza Sauce

1. Blend canned tomatoes until smooth (or crush them by hand for a rustic texture).
2. Mix in olive oil, garlic, salt, oregano, and fresh basil.
3. Let it sit for 30 minutes for flavors to meld.

---

3. Shape the Dough & Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 250°C (480°F) (or as hot as it can go). If using a pizza stone, heat it inside the oven.
2. Punch down the dough and divide it into two balls.
3. On a floured surface, stretch each ball by hand into a thin circle (about 12 inches). Avoid rolling pins for an airy crust.
4. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.

---

4. Add Toppings & Bake

1. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
2. Tear fresh mozzarella into pieces and scatter evenly.
3. Bake for 7-10 minutes (or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling).
4. Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil.

---

5. Serve & Enjoy!

• Slice and serve immediately with extra Parmesan or chili flakes.
• Pair with a glass of Italian wine for the full experience!

---

Tips for the Best Italian Pizza

✅ Use high-protein “00” flour for a light, crispy crust.
✅ Let the dough rise slowly (overnight in the fridge) for extra flavor.
✅ Use fresh, high-quality ingredients—San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and good olive oil make all the difference.
✅ Bake at the highest temperature possible for a true Neapolitan-style pizza.
✅ For extra crispiness, use a pizza stone or steel.

Now you can make authentic Italian pizza at home! Would you like a variation, like Pepperoni or Quattro Formaggi? 🍕🔥