Activate Dry Yeast: In a small bowl combine yeast, sugar and lukewarm water (105-110°F (40-43°C). Let it sit for 10 minutes until bubbly foam forms on the surface.
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl mix together flour and salt. Then create a well in the middle.
Pour the yeast mixture into the well. Bring the flour in gradually from the sides with your hands to blend into the liquid.
When everything is slightly mixed, add the oil. (It’s important to add oil last as this allows the flour to hydrate properly)
Knead the Dough: Keep mixing and when everything starts to come together, knead your dough by hand for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic (You will need about 8 minutes if you use a mixer. See notes below). You need to knead until the dough is soft and elastic. If it slowly bounces back when you poke it with your finger, it is ready for the next step.
Let the Dough Rise: Grease another large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough into the bowl and rub with oil all over.
Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 30 minutes or until the dough has doubled in size. (After rising, you can wrap and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use, or if you use it immediately, continue to the next step).
Preheat the Oven: When the dough almost finishes rising, this is the time to preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). It usually takes about 15 minutes to heat up.
Shape the Dough: Place the dough on a floured surface and stretch the dough by gently flattening it into a 12-inch (30mm) circle with your fingers. Stretch it out to about 1/8-inch (3mm) thick for a thin crust, and 1/4-inch (6mm) thick for a thick crust. (Avoid kneading the dough at this stage)
Transfer it to a nonstick pizza pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Use a fork to poke holes across the surface of the dough, so it doesn’t develop large bubbles while baking.
Add Toppings and Bake: Brush your crust with olive oil and add your favorite toppings. Then bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Slice the pizza and serve warm.