Classic Margherita Pizza

Ingredients:

For the dough:

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1 teaspoon salt
¾ cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the toppings:

1 cup crushed tomatoes
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:

Make the dough: In a bowl, mix flour, yeast, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.

Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Add toppings: Spread crushed tomatoes on the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Season with salt and pepper. Arrange mozzarella slices on top and add fresh basil leaves.

Bake: Slide the pizza onto the hot pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

Serve: Drizzle with olive oil, add more basil if desired, and slice. Enjoy!