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Margherita pizza

Dinner and a Movie: How to Create the Perfect Cozy Night In

Margherita Pizza:

  • Simple Ingredients: Uses minimal, fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.

  • Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes with pre-made dough.

  • Versatile: Perfect for a cozy night in, a date night, or even a family dinner.

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  • Total Time: 33

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 1/2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn into pieces

  • 2–3 ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced

  • Fresh basil leaves (about 10-12 leaves)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

  1. On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference.

  2. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Add the Toppings

  1. Spread the Sauce: Use a spoon to spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.

  2. Add the Cheese: Place the fresh mozzarella slices or pieces evenly over the sauce.

  3. Layer the Tomatoes: Arrange the tomato slices on top of the cheese.

  4. Season: Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

  1. Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone if using).

  2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 1-2 minutes.

  2. Top with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.

  3. Slice and serve immediately while hot!

Notes

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil make all the difference in flavor.

  2. Homemade Dough: If you have time, try making your own pizza dough for an extra-special touch.

  3. Don’t Overload the Toppings: Keep it simple to let the flavors shine.

  4. Experiment with Herbs: Add a sprinkle of oregano or thyme for extra depth of flavor.

  5. Make It Crispy: For a crispier crust, bake the pizza directly on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.

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  • Author: Master Chef
  • Prep Time: 17
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: italyian
  • Diet: Halal

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 657

Find it online: https://dinnerideas.info/dinner-and-a-movie-how-to-create-the-perfect-cozy-night-in/