Homemade Margherita Pizza Simple Flavorful Delight

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1 cup canned San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• a handful fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Move the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the highest setting (about 475°F to 500°F) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
6. Prepare the Sauce: While the dough is rising, crush the canned tomatoes by hand in a bowl, mixing in salt and pepper to taste.
7. Shape the Pizza: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions for two pizzas. Roll out each portion on a floured surface, stretching it into a 12-inch circle.
8. Add the Toppings: Transfer the pizza base to a parchment-lined pizza peel or a floured baking sheet. Spread a layer of tomato sauce evenly across the base, leaving a small border around the edges. Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella on top, and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves.
9. Bake the Pizza: Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling.
10. Finish and Serve: Once out of the oven, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and add some more fresh basil leaves for garnish. Let it cool for a minute, then slice and serve!