Pizza Express Margherita

1. Begin by preheating your oven to a scorching 230°C to ensure your pizza bakes to a perfect golden crisp. 2. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and crumble the fresh yeast into warm water, stirring gently. This step is crucial for activating the yeast to create that fluffy dough. 3. Let this mixture sit undisturbed in a warm spot—like a sunny windowsill—for 10 to 15 minutes until a frothy layer forms, indicating the yeast is alive and bubbling with activity. 4. Meanwhile, sift the plain flour and salt into a spacious mixing bowl. Make a well in the center and pour in your frothy yeast mixture along with a drizzle of olive oil to add richness. 5. Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking and slowly begin mixing the ingredients together until the dough just comes together. 6. Generously dust your countertop with flour, then turn the dough out onto it. 7. Knead the dough with confident, rhythmic motions for about 10 minutes until it feels smooth, silky, and incredibly soft—this develops the gluten for an elastic texture. 8. Place your dough into a lightly oiled, non-stick baking tray; while a round tray mimics traditional shapes, any tray works beautifully. 9. Spread the luscious passata evenly over the dough, extending all the way to the edges for a fully sauced bite. 10. Scatter the sliced mozzarella uniformly over the sauce, then sprinkle with oregano and a pinch of black pepper to balance flavors. Drizzle a little olive oil atop for a glossy finish. 11. Slide your pizza into the hot oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the mozzarella begins to bubble and display a light golden color. 12. Once baked, adorn with fresh basil leaves just before serving to impart a fragrant, herbaceous touch. Slice up and enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza!