Description
This Margherita Pizza Focaccia combines the airy, olive oil–rich texture of classic Italian focaccia with the simple and fresh toppings of a Margherita pizza. With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s a rustic yet elegant dish you can make at home without a pizza oven. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or sliced Roma tomatoes)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, torn into pieces (or shredded mozzarella)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Optional: garlic, oregano, chili flakes, balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough: Add flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Mix into a sticky dough, then knead for 5–8 minutes until smooth.
- First Rise: Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Spread into a greased baking pan. Use your fingers to dimple the surface. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt.
- Pre-Bake: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add Toppings: Arrange halved tomatoes and torn mozzarella on top. Sprinkle with oregano or chili flakes if desired.
- Bake Again: Return to the oven for 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish with Basil: Top with fresh basil leaves right before serving for the best flavor.
Notes
For a rustic finish, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving. You can prepare the dough ahead and let it rise overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor. Store leftovers in foil for up to 2 days or freeze slices for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th of focaccia)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg