Classic Homemade Margherita Pizza

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup canned San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour, mixing until a dough forms.

2. 2

   Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

3. 3

   Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.

4. 4

   Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, crush the canned tomatoes with your hands or a fork until slightly chunky. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

5. 5

   Shape the Pizza: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into two portions. Roll out each portion into a 10-12 inch round shape, making the edges slightly thicker for a crust.

6. 6

   Assemble the Pizza: Spread a thin layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the pizza base, leaving the edges clear. Arrange the sliced mozzarella evenly over the sauce and add fresh basil leaves on top.

7. 7

   Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza onto a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

8. 8

   Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Allow it to cool for a minute before slicing. Serve hot with additional fresh basil if desired.