Ingredients:

For the Pizza Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar

• 2/3 cup (160ml) warm water

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pizza Toppings:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce or pizza sauce

• 1 1/2 cups (170g) shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1-2 fresh tomatoes, thinly sliced

• Fresh basil leaves

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Extra olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:

For the Pizza Dough:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough comes together.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball.

4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Assembling and Baking the Pizza:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating.

2. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

3. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or an inverted baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

5. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

6. Arrange the fresh tomato slices on top of the cheese, season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

7. Add the remaining mozzarella cheese.

8. Slide the pizza (on the parchment paper, if using) onto the preheated pizza stone or directly onto a baking sheet.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

10. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with extra olive oil.

11. Slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade Margherita Pizza!

Optional Tips:

• You can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

• Customize your pizza with additional toppings like olives, mushrooms, or sliced bell peppers if desired.