Prepare the homemade pesto by blending fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Preheat the oven according to pizza dough instructions.

If using homemade pizza dough, roll it out; if using store-bought, follow the packaging instructions.

Brush the dough with 1 Tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle cornmeal on the baking surface.

Place the prepared dough on the baking surface.

Spread the pesto evenly over the dough.

Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and halved cherry tomatoes (if using).

Bake according to the dough instructions or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil, extra pesto, shredded parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using).