Classic Margherita Pizza

Ingredients

• 1 ball (~350 g) Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup (about 120 g) Crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp Extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 clove Garlic (minced)(optional)
• 1/4 tsp Salt(optional)
• 8 oz (about 225 g) Fresh mozzarella
• 1/2 cup (torn) Fresh basil leaves
• 1 pinch Black pepper(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C). If using a pizza stone/steel, preheat it as well.

2. 2

   In a bowl, mix crushed tomatoes with 1 tsp olive oil, minced garlic (if using), salt (if using), and a pinch of black pepper. Spread sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.

3. 3

   Tear or slice mozzarella and distribute it evenly over the sauce.

4. 4

   Bake for 10 minutes, until the crust is crisp and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.

5. 5

   Remove pizza, drizzle with the remaining 1 tsp olive oil, top with basil, slice, and serve immediately.