When it comes to dinner ideas that can bring the whole family together, few dishes can rival the timeless appeal of pizza. This savory pizza recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that will have everyone gathering around the table with anticipation. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be simple yet incredibly delicious.

Let's start with the basics - the crust. The crust is the foundation of any great pizza, and this one is no exception. You can choose to make your own crust from scratch, which adds a personal touch and allows you to control the ingredients. To make a classic pizza crust, you'll need flour, yeast, water, salt, and a bit of olive oil. Combine the yeast with warm water and a pinch of sugar, and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast - water mixture and the olive oil, and start to knead the dough. Kneading is an important step as it develops the gluten in the flour, giving the crust its structure and elasticity. Keep kneading for about 10 - 15 minutes until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.

While the dough is rising, it's time to prepare the toppings. One of the great things about pizza is that you can customize it to suit your family's tastes. For a classic savory pizza, a simple tomato sauce is a must. You can use store - bought tomato sauce or make your own by simmering canned tomatoes with garlic, onions, basil, oregano, and a bit of salt and pepper. Cook the sauce over low heat for about 20 - 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.

Next, it's time to choose your cheese. Mozzarella is the traditional choice for pizza, and for good reason. Its stretchy texture and mild flavor complement the tomato sauce perfectly. You can use fresh mozzarella, which has a creamy and delicate taste, or shredded mozzarella for a more even distribution on the pizza. You can also add other cheeses like Parmesan or provolone for an extra layer of flavor.

As for the other toppings, the possibilities are endless. You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and olives for a healthy and colorful pizza. For meat lovers, pepperoni, sausage, bacon, or ham are great options. Just make sure to cook any raw meat before adding it to the pizza to ensure it's safe to eat.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into your desired shape - whether it's a round pizza or a rectangular one. Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle the cheese over the sauce, followed by your chosen toppings.

Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 475°F (245°C). This high heat is essential for achieving a crispy crust and melting the cheese quickly. Place the pizza in the oven and bake for about 12 - 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned on top.

When the pizza is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set a bit and makes it easier to cut. Serve the pizza hot, and watch as your family digs in with smiles on their faces. This savory pizza recipe is versatile enough to be made on a weeknight when you're short on time or for a special family dinner on the weekend.

It's also a great activity to do with the kids. Let them help with rolling out the dough, choosing the toppings, and spreading them on the pizza. This not only makes the meal more fun but also teaches them about cooking and healthy eating habits. And if there are any leftovers, they make a great breakfast the next morning!

In conclusion, this savory pizza recipe is a winner in every sense. It's easy to make, customizable, and most importantly, it's a meal that the whole family will enjoy. So, the next time you're looking for a delicious dinner idea, give this pizza recipe a try and experience the joy of a home - made pizza at the dinner table.