Margherita Pizza

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 cup pizza sauce
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
• 6 leaves fresh basil leaves

Steps

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in olive oil, salt, and flour gradually until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and grease a pizza pan or baking sheet.
6. Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large circle on the prepared pan.
7. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
8. Top with sliced fresh mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.