Homemade Pizza

1. Stage

In a large, deep bowl, whisk salt and 3 1/3 cups flour. In a medium bowl, mix honey, yeast, and 1 1/3 cups lukewarm water (about 100°) until yeast just about dissolves. Pour honey mixture into dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, push mixture together to form a cohesive dough. Turn out onto a clean surface and knead with 3 to 4 tablespoons flour until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes.

2. Stage

Press down on dough to deflate. Turn out onto a clean work surface. Form into a loose ball, then fold dough in on itself from beneath, about 8 times. The dough should be in a tight ball at this point. Let rest 10 to 15 minutes.

3. Stage

Meanwhile, place a rack in lowest third of oven; preheat to 550° (or as high as your oven goes). Place a round or large rectangular sheet tray on rack during the last few minutes of preheating. Time to make the sauce.

4. Stage

In a food processor or blender, pulse tomatoes and garlic until broken down and slightly chunky, 10 to 15 times. If you prefer a smoother texture, continue to process until smooth.

5. Stage

In a large wide pot or saucepan over medium-low heat, cook oil, oregano, and pepper, stirring frequently, until oregano begins to sizzle, about 1 minute.

6. Stage

Carefully pour tomato mixture into pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and sauce is reduced to about 2 cups, 10 to 15 minutes; season with salt, if needed. Let cool.

7. Stage

Divide dough into 2 pieces. At this point, you can freeze one, or make two pizzas. On a pizza peel or lightly floured surface, stretch dough to a 14" round. Carefully transfer round to preheated sheet tray. Top with 3/4 cup sauce, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and any additional desired toppings (see gallery below for ideas).

8. Stage

Bake pizza until crust is golden brown, 13 to 15 minutes. Repeat with remaining dough and toppings, if desired.