Classic Margherita Pizza

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to its highest temperature, typically between 475 to 500 degrees F (245 to 260 degrees C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.

2. 2

   On a floured surface, stretch out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, forming a 12-inch circle.

3. 3

   Transfer the stretched dough onto a pizza peel dusted with flour or cornmeal, or onto a baking sheet if you don't have a pizza stone.

4. 4

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

5. 5

   Tear the fresh mozzarella into small pieces and distribute them evenly over the sauce.

6. 6

   Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the pizza and sprinkle with salt.

7. 7

   If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza onto the stone in the oven. If using a baking sheet, place it in the oven.

8. 8

   Bake the pizza for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.

9. 9

   While the pizza is baking, chiffonade the fresh basil leaves by stacking them, rolling them tightly, and slicing them into thin ribbons.

10. 10

    Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and immediately sprinkle the fresh basil over the hot pizza.

11. 11

    Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.